First translation of Nahj al-Balagha and Al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiya into Malagasy published in Madagascar
Madagascar witnessed a historic event on March 8, 2025, with the publication of the first official translation of Nahj al-Balagha and Al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiya into the Malagasy language. This milestone marks an unprecedented step in spreading Islamic and Shia thought in the country.
Nahj al-Balagha, which contains the sermons and letters of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be upon him), and Al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiya, a collection of supplications by Imam Zain al-Abidin (peace be upon him), are among the most significant Islamic sources in spiritual and social thought.
Given the scarcity of Islamic translations into Malagasy, these books were chosen for their special importance in introducing Islamic teachings, particularly Shia thought, to Madagascar.
Project organizers emphasized that this initiative represents a turning point in the history of Muslims in Madagascar. It was not merely the release of religious books but an opportunity to promote interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange.
The translation was carried out by researchers Shokr Bou Mounid and Shakur Hussein, taking approximately three years to complete. This achievement provides a new intellectual legacy for the Muslim community in Madagascar and contributes valuable academic resources to the study of Islamic thought.
The translators highlighted that Nahj al-Balagha serves as an essential source for understanding concepts of life, freedom, faith, and human relationships, including interactions between Muslims and Christians. This makes it a significant contribution to a better understanding of Islamic principles within the local context.
