The Analysis of Persian Translations of Quranic Words: A Case Study of the Word 'Asaver'

Since Quran has been revealed in Arabic, a precise perception and translation of its words has always been of special importance for non-Arabic speakers. Paying attention to the precise meaning of words is seen as the most essential step in offering a precise translation and staying faithful to the text. Here, the word 'asaver', which has been used four times in the Quran and introduced as one of the gifts from heaven, is especially important. Using a descriptive-analytic method, the current research examines the meanings of the word 'asaver' and analyzes the Persian translations of this term stage by stage. At first, the meaning of the word 'asaver' was analyzed lexically, stylistically and using the opinions of the interpreters and historians. The results of the examinations at this stage showed that 'asaver' is the plural form of 'sevar' meaning any kind of ornament related to the hand and worn like a ring. At next stage, the Persian translations of the Quran were investigated. The results at this later stage reveal that all translators have been affected by the result of the first stage. What matters is that none of the lexicologists, interpreters and translators have heeded the otherworldly nature of the concept of asaver, treating it as synonymous with the word 'asverah' that has been used once in an Ayah and refers to the worldly ornamentation.