The Bible Translator: Volume 20, Issue 4

The result of translation which does not make the fullest use of native speakers is tragic in terms of (1) public relations for the gospel, (2) linguistics, (3) theology and (4) stewardship. There are handicaps regarding (1) knowledge of Greek and Hebrew, (2) education, (3) creative literary experience, (4) shame of heritage, (5) teamwork, (6) mercenary motives, (7) church politics, and (8) status. But the effort to overcome these through effective training pays manifold dividends. Illustrates from experience steps for training: (1) choice of team, (2) training - philosophy and time, (3) content, (4) backgrounds - general and Biblical, (5) practice, (6) style and related techniques. View Less

A figure translated literally may give a wrong meaning. Illustrates how alternative metaphors or nonmetaphors were used in two East Cameroun languages, where “city-gate,” “snares” in hunting, “anointing,” “fortresses,” etc. are unfamiliar. View Less

Optimal Bible translation into any language demands the use of both (1) exegesis, to protect the translator from errors and to broaden his outlook, and (2) linguistics, to make him sensitive to meaning, nuance and their relation to style and form. View Less

Studies the result of three courses used to find a name suitable for the Christian God in Oceania: (1) use of names like God, Deo, etc. imported from Europe; (2) adoption of a native term, and (3) invention of a phrase like “Great Spirit.” All have been equally successful devices for communicating. View Less

Illustrates the sensitivity required for good translation by describing an experiment of teaching about Eskimo life to Kalo (Cameroun) tribesmen, and then illustrates from the Scriptures degrees of difference in the ability to understand objects and activities (1) foreign to the receptors’ experience, (2) familiar in the main, but strange in details - involving foreign concepts, and (3) well-known parallels. Under (1) and (2) moral judgments may be a barrier to understanding the essential message of a story or passage. View Less

A detailed job-description for translations consultants, explaining the organization of a team to undertake a particular translation and the key role of their relation to (1) translators, (2) churches and missions, and (3) Bible societies. View Less