Question

Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

Translating texts, sharing ideas Translating texts, sharing ideas Al-Biruni’s expertise in several languages allowed him to compare languages and translate texts. He translated several Sanskrit works, including Patanjali’s work on grammar, into Arabic. For his Brahmana friends, he translated the works of Euclid (a Greek mathematician) into Sanskrit.

1. Analyse the advantage Al-Biruni gained from his expertise in multiple languages? (1)
2. Analyse the significance of Al-Biruni translating Patanjali's work on grammar into Arabic? (1)
3. How did Al-Biruni's translations contribute to the mutual understanding and appreciation between Islamic and Indian civilisations? (2)

Answer 1

1. Al-Biruni's proficiency in several languages allowed him to compare languages and translate texts, facilitating cross-cultural exchange and the dissemination of knowledge across different regions.
2. • By translating Patanjali's work into Arabic, Al-Biruni contributed to the preservation and transmission of knowledge from Indian culture to the Islamic world.
   • Enriching the understanding of grammar and linguistic principles.
3. • Al-Biruni's translations fostered mutual understanding and appreciation between Islamic and Indian civilisations by facilitating the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and cultural practices.
   • This intellectual exchange enriched both traditions and promoted dialogue and cooperation between the two civilisations.