An Analysis of the Translation and Concept of the Word  Estefa With a Look at Shared Meaning and Meaning Layers

Finding equivalents for the Quranic words by referring to dictionaries may not enable the translator to convey their real concept to the audience. Moreover, using synonyms or words having closer meanings aggravates this problem. The words ‘ejteba’, ‘estefa’, ‘ekhtiyar’, ‘estena’ and ‘ettekhaz’ are of this kind of nature. These words are often translated identically due to the proximity of their meanings. However, we know that every word has a meaning of its own. Using the applications of the Quranic verses and interpretations, this paper attempts to explore the meaning of the word ‘estefa’ and offer a suitable translation for it, so that it can be applied everywhere, suits the status of the Quranic verses and yet, be distinguished from other closer words. To accomplish this, first, the views of the earlier scholars on the meaning and interpretation of ‘estefa’ are discussed. Then, purification of its meaning is done. Finally, seyr-e mostafavin (the course of the chosen) over time and the meaning layers of ‘estefa’ are presented.