THE ROLE OF REYNOLD NICHOLSON AND JOHN ARBERRY’S TRANSLATION IN THE STUDY OF SUFI LITERATURE

Abstract

Sufi literature, with its deep mystical insights and rich poetic traditions, has been taking the attention of scholars not only from the eastern muslim countries but also western cultures, especially English scientists. Among the most influential scientists who mostly contributed to the translation of Sufi poems and texts into English are Reynold Nicholson and John Arberry. Their translations of many Sufi texts like the masterpieces of Rumi, Ibn Khaldun, Sa’di and others, are considered main sources of Sufi literature in western academia and mostly used by other scholars. This research deeply illustrate the role of Nicholson and Arberry’s translations in shaping modern understanding of Sufi literature by using analytical and comparative research methods. By analyzing their translation strategies, scholarly impact and aims, is shows both strength and limitations of their contributions.