Persian Translation Movement at the Safavid Era

Abstract

The Safavid dynasty integrated borders of ancient Iran for the first time after early Islamic Period. They tried to prevail Shi'ism in order to boost national integrity among Persians. In order to reach the aforesaid goal, they supported and sponsored translation of Shi'ism teachings and theology. The mentioned official “patronage” led to a translation movement in which religious translated texts moved to the center of the literary system of Persia. The aim of compiling and translating religious texts into Persian was helping laymen-type Iranians to have access to Shi'ism teachings. Other text types were also translated into Persian too. For example important available historical, medical and geographical books were translated into Persian. The Safavids were interested in boosting ties with European governments. One of the tactics in this respect was tolerating Christian religious missions which led to translation of Christian and Jewish Holy books. Many of the translators were officials and appointed prayer leaders who knew Arabic and sometimes the King himself ordered a book to a translator. In summary, state-sponsored translation movement contributed to propagation of Shi'ism in Iran and many of the said translations are still available in the market.