MMERC Style Manual: An Academic Milestone for Islamic Authors

By M. Burhanuddin Qasmi

The MMERC Style Manual stands as a remarkable achievement in the realm of academic writing, particularly for Islamic authors, educators, and researchers. By seamlessly blending linguistic precision with Islamic tradition, this manual ensures consistency, reverence, and professionalism in Islamic scholarship. Its detailed guidelines elevate it to the status of an indispensable resource for producing high-quality scholarly works.

A Pioneer in Transliteration Standards

One of the most distinguished features of the MMERC Style Manual is its rigorous approach to transliteration. The manual ensures accurate representation of Arabic words and phrases in English, allowing non-Arabic readers to grasp the correct pronunciation and meaning. Its use of diacritical marks, such as macrons for long vowels, is both meticulous and essential for maintaining linguistic integrity. For instance, frequently used terms like Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam (saws) and In-Sha-Allah etc. are given their due prominence through precise guidelines. The manual’s insistence on consistency in transliteration reflects its commitment to authenticity, a hallmark of effective Islamic scholarship.

Preservation of Islamic Etiquette

The manual demonstrates an admirable sensitivity toward the sanctity of Islamic phrases and expressions. Its guidelines for properly capitalizing and formatting terms like Alhamdulillah and Jazak’Allahu Khaira etc. ensure that they are treated with the reverence they deserve. By setting a uniform standard for their usage, the manual not only upholds Islamic etiquette but also enhances the credibility of the text for a global audience. This thoughtful approach underscores the manual’s central philosophy: to balance academic rigor with deep respect for Islamic values.

Alignment with International Academic Standards

A standout feature of the MMERC Style Manual is its adoption of the MLA citation style, which brings global academic legitimacy to Islamic scholarship. By offering clear, practical examples tailored to Islamic literature, the manual equips writers with the tools needed to cite sources accurately and professionally. This integration of MLA guidelines bridges the gap between traditional Islamic studies and contemporary academia, enabling scholars to engage confidently with both.

Polished Formatting for Professional Presentation

The manual’s detailed instructions on fonts, formatting, and typographic consistency reflect its commitment to professionalism. By specifying the appropriate use of bold, italics, and sacred script, it ensures a polished and cohesive presentation for all written works. This attention to detail enhances readability and aligns the visual quality of Islamic publications with their intellectual rigor.

Structured for Ease of Use

The MMERC Style Manual is thoughtfully developed by a qualified group of scholars from the International MMERC Alumni Network (IMAN), with each section addressing a specific aspect of writing or formatting. Whether it is transliteration, writing of proper nouns, or citation practices, the manual provides concise, actionable guidelines supported by clear examples. This structured approach makes it accessible not only to seasoned authors but also to students who wish to master their writings on Islamic studies using English as the source language.

A Bridge Between Tradition and Modernity

What truly sets the MMERC Style Manual apart is its ability to integrate Islamic tradition with modern academic practices. The careful treatment of sacred names and phrases, alongside its alignment with international standards, exemplifies a harmonious balance. This dual focus ensures that Islamic scholarship remains rooted in its rich heritage while embracing the demands of contemporary academia.

A Guide for Islamic Names and Titles

The manual offers valuable guidance on the correct transliteration and respectful treatment of Islamic names and titles, particularly those of Prophet Muhammad (saws) and his companions – Sahaba (ra). Its guidelines on abbreviations ensure both brevity and reverence, making it easier for writers to maintain a balance between respect and readability.

Conclusion

The MMERC Style Manual is more than a set of writing rules—it is a scholarly milestone. By addressing the unique needs of Islamic authors while adhering to global academic standards, Markazul Ma’arif Education and Research Center (MMERC) establishes a robust framework for producing professional, respectful, and authentic works. This manual will serve as a foundational resource for Islamic scholars, ensuring that their work is presented with the dignity and precision it deserves.

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