Tattoo

[sooz07]

I want to get a tattoo done of my name in Arabic. I have seen 2 versions of the translation. How do I find out which one is genuine, why there are 2 versions etc. Where could I find this out?

[gina32]

ive got one of my grandsons name in arabic, i think i went to an arabic transaltion site, if that makes sense, how did you find yours?

[sooz07]

I just typed in arabic translation in Google, searched the websites that you can get it translated for free online. There were many different ones I went onto - I couldn't name any off hand - sorry! Do you remember the website you went on?

[Ethel]

The problem is that it is not always straightforward to translate a name into Arabic.

The language is simply A=one character and B = another.

Read any Arabic newspaper and George Bush is shown as George Bush in amongst the Arabic text - they don't have a word for George and their word for bush is not a name.

You'll probably get many different translations of the same name - and over half will be gobbledegook or mean something entirely different.

But if Arabic is not your language, nor your family's - what is the point?

[sooz07]

Well Ethel I am Muslim I read the Quran which is written in Arabic I like the writing and that it why I want the tattoo. I can only read the text as written in the Quran but wasn't sure of the versions I have seen - which one was correct. It is a personal thing. It does not have to be my language to get the tattoo done. Many people get chinese symbols and writing done but that doesn't mean it is their language.

[Ethel]

And I think Chinese tattoos on non-Chinese speaking people very odd too.

As you read Arabic you will be aware of the problems of translation.

Ask your Imam for help

[sooz07]

It is just different having something like that done. Better than just having my name in English tattooed. That is your opinion/preference. That is why I was questioning the 2 different versions of the translation I found.

[Ethel]

It's hardly different - it's become so common, it's almost normal.

As I said, your Imam will help you.

[sooz07]

I will get to the bottom of it. Everyone has their own preferences. Some people think it is "odd" some don't. I respect your opinion. Thanks.

[gina32]

sorry i dont remember what the website was as it was a couple of years ago but i will try and find out for you as i want another one done with my newly born grandaughters name. if you do find a decent one, please let me know.