Simultaneous Interpretation From Nuremberg Mosques to the Holy Mosques in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Simultaneous interpretation is a form of oral translation and is considered one of the most challenging professions. It is frequently ranked as the third most difficult job after those of astronomers and high-speed aircraft pilots. This field is highly demanding, requiring not only talented and highly qualified interpreters but also specialised equipment. Despite these challenges, translators and specialists continue to advocate for its use in international forums and official meetings. Simultaneous interpretation was prominent during the Nuremberg Trials and is now utilised in major organisations such as the United Nations and the European Union, as well as in the Holy Mosques, the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. This article provides an overview of the historical background of simultaneous interpretation, discusses its inherent difficulties, and explains why it is the preferred method in international settings. Simultaneous interpretation has long attracted significant interest from specialists and is often admired by the general public. Many aspire to become interpreters, envisioning it as a prestigious career, and understandably so. Simultaneous interpretation is typically associated with interpreters who attend international conferences and political meetings, frequently travelling from one capital city to another. However, those drawn to this field may not realise that it involves tremendous responsibility, as even minor errors can have serious consequences. Moreover, it is a highly demanding profession with numerous conditions and requirements.