It has been a fair interval between posts for me but I have been working on several things lately. One thing that occurred to me is the Opening surah of the Quran. Since we recite it so often I wondered how many people had ever gone to the extent of trying to come up with their own personal understanding of the surah.

I think it's worth doing this as it brings to one's mind what God is wanting us to be calling upon Him with. Because I think in English I think it is important for me and I think anyone else who has English as a first language to examine Al-Fatiha for themselves and find its meaning for themselves.

Although all translations will share the core concepts, I will share my translation in English for your consideration.

Chapter 1 - The Opening

1 In the name of GOD, the Most Powerful, the Most Merciful.
2 All praise is due to GOD, the Lord of all,
3 Most Powerful, Most Merciful.
4 Ruler of the Day of Judgment.
5 You alone we serve;
You alone we ask for encouragement,
6 Guide us to the Straight Way,
7 The Way of those whom You bless with Your grace,
and not of those who earn Your anger, nor of those who go astray.

This has evolved over some years and is always changing subtly. I hope to have a perfect translation one day that brings even more of the impact of the original to English.

My best wishes.

PS Please share your own nuances in this thread as I'd be interested to learn what others call to God with.

OO