The Rhetorical Functions of Translation in the Formation of Mystical Interpretation Structure

Translation has many different models and methods. It also serves a variety of functions, one of which founding a basis for the expression of interpretations pertain to verses, anecdotes and Hadiths. In mystical texts, the discourse is based on many verses, anecdotes, Hadiths and quotes. So, the necessity of direct citation obliges the mystic to bring the corresponding Arabic quotation beside its translation in her/his text. The great Sufies, such Abu al-Fazl Rashid al-Din Maybodi in his al-Nawbat al-Salesa Kashf al-Asrar wa Iddata al-Abrar, have applied translation not only for the necessity of evidence, but also for effectively expressing their intrinsic interpretation of verses and Hadiths. The delicacy, depth, complexity and efficiency of this kind of translation play a basic role in forming the linguistic and semantic structure of the text; the issue which is investigated in this study. The findings show that, in the mystical exegesis of Maybodi, the original Arabic form of verses, anecdotes, Hadiths and quotes sometimes were presented beside their translation and sometimes were not. Furthermore, when needed both free and word for word translations have been done. At the very beginning of translations, the planned arrangement of them shows a turn from surface meaning towards hermeneutic meaning, and then, by expansion and explanation of hermeneutic meaning, the linguistic and semantic structure of the text is formed. The author founds the expression of his thoughts within or in relation to such translations. Besides, the translation has a fundamental role in matching the intention of Arabic text with the author’s thoughts, integrating the semantic structure of the text, and increasing the depth and dimensions of the meaning. Such rhetorical functions of translation lead the translator exegete mystic to the main goal, say, expressing his mystical interpretations and thoughts in a clear and effective way.