A Critical Review of Hermeneutic Approaches to Language and Translation: Theoretical Foundations, Interpretative Challenges, and Implications for Cross-Cultural Communication

Abstract

This study provides a critical examination of hermeneutic methodologies in language and translation, with a focused analysis on their application to classical literature. While existing research has explored translation theory extensively, few studies have systematically investigated the intersection between hermeneutics and translation, particularly concerning classical texts. This gap motivates the present research, which employs a rigorous critical literature review methodology to analyze and synthesize key hermeneutical approaches to language and translation. By evaluating these methodologies, the study develops a comprehensive theoretical framework that clarifies the hermeneutic concept of translation, offering a robust foundation for reassessing classical text translations. The research identifies three primary factors that complicate the translation process: textual (linguistic structures, syntax, and semantics), contextual (historical, cultural, and situational influences), and paracontextual (ideological, power-related, and subjective biases). While traditional translation approaches often prioritize textual fidelity, this study argues that contextual and paracontextual elements play an equally critical role in shaping meaning. For instance, translating classical Arabic poetry or sacred texts requires not only lexical accuracy but also an understanding of historical ethos, cultural connotations, and the translator’s own interpretative lens.By integrating these three dimensions, the study advocates for a hermeneutically informed approach to translation—one that moves beyond mechanical word-for-word substitution toward a dynamic negotiation of meaning. This approach enhances translation accuracy, adaptability, and cultural resonance, particularly for classical works where linguistic and historical gaps are pronounced. Ultimately, the research underscores the necessity of hermeneutic analysis in translation studies, proposing that a deeper engagement with context and interpretation can bridge the divide between source and target languages, ensuring both precision and philosophical depth in translated literature.