A donor wishes to translate the works of a deceased scholar into Arabic, print them, and publish them. What is the opinion of His Eminence regarding seeking permission from the current publisher who is already publishing in a specific language? The donor's intention is not financial but rather to spread the author's thoughts. What do you think? Does translating, reproducing, and selling Arabic books require permission from the publisher or not?
[AR_ID:5139]
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1 Answer
Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings.
His Eminence Ayatollah al-Uzma Sayyid Sistani (may God protect him):
Copyright includes translating the work into another language, printing it, and publishing it.
His Eminence does not permit violating the copyright laws in Islamic countries. This right can be inherited, sold, and transferred from one person to another if it is endorsed by the legal authority.
Source: Official Website + Clear Fatwas, General Public Queries, Volume 1.
His Eminence Ayatollah al-Uzma Sayyid Khamenei (may God protect him):
Copyright includes translating the work into another language, printing it, and publishing it.
It is obligatory to seek permission from both the author and the publisher when renewing the print. As for specific cases covered by certain laws, they must be observed, and this matter should also be considered in subsequent issues.
Upon the author's death or absence, it is advisable to refer to the author's agent, their legal guardian, or their heir in such matters.
Source: Answers to Inquiries, Q 1340 + 1341.
May you be successful in all good.