Browse Tag
Abdel Haleem
6 posts
Muhammad Abdel Haleem (محمد عبد الحليم سعيد) is an Egyptian Islamic studies scholar and the King Fahd Professor of Islamic Studies at SOAS University of London. He is renowned for his English translation of the Quran.
“Like it or Not”: The Meaning and Grammar of شَاءَ مَنْ شَاءَ in Arabic
It's the ultimate phrase for ending an argument: Shā'a man shā'a wa-abā man abā (شَاءَ مَنْ شَاءَ وَأَبَى مَنْ أَبَى). Literally "whoever wished, wished," it actually means "like it or not." We explore the rhetoric behind this powerful idiom, its connection to the Quran (Surah al-Kahf 18:29), and how to translate it without losing its force.
The ‘Hunted Infinitive’: The المَصْدَرُ الْمُتَصَيَّدُ and the Hidden Logic in Arabic Sentences
Why is the Qur'anic verse لَا تَنَازَعُوا فَتَفْشَلُوا both eloquent and a grammatical puzzle? The answer is the 'hunted infinitive' (المصدر المتصيد), a brilliant principle that finds hidden logic where none is written. This article breaks down how the concept resolves a classic paradox in Arabic.
Why the Quran Can Be Hard to Read: 6 Keys to Its Unique Stylistic Beauty
This article explores the Quran's stylistic forms (balagha), covering key techniques like oaths, intensive adjectives, emphasis, affective sentences, and iltifaat to deepen your understanding.
Are Shaytan and Iblis the Same? A Guide to the Devil in Islam
Shaytan and Iblis are central to Islamic theology as symbols of evil. This article presents their origins, Quranic roles, and interpretations, distinguishing any disobedient Jinn (Shaytan) from the first disobedient being (Iblis).
Best Arabic Grammar Books: From Beginner to Advanced
A curated list of indispensable Arabic grammar books, drawing from years of intensive study. This selection covers Nahw, Sarf, and various dialects, providing vital resources for Arabic learners.
“I would describe myself as an Arabist in the making” | Badrul Aini Sha’ari | 9273 Roots #2
Badrul Aini Sha'ari, an Arabist and Arabic news officer in Kuala Lumpur, discusses his dedication to the language in Southeast Asia, from translation to journalism.
