The Bible Translator: Volume 22, Issue 3

The TEV is widely used by translators in preparing common language versions. Criticism directed to it arise from ignorance of its objectives. It was conceived in answer to requests from Africa and the Far East for a translation to be used with those for whom English is an acquired language. Five principles dictated its form: (1) “common language” as written; (2) dynamic equivalence; (3) use of the most ancient MSS; (4) acceptance of consensus exegesis and interpretation; and (5) contextual consistency. View Less

There are at least a dozen devices for avoiding taboo words. Many are found in the original Bible language relative to physical life, sexual organs, intercourse and death. In translation into modern languages equivalents when natural should be sought. The recommended principles are illustrated from translations into Bamoun, an E. Cameroun language. View Less

The verse involves four idioms which make little literal sense. TEV offers tentatively, “...the people of Damascus have sinned again and again. I will surely punish them because they have treated the people of Gilead with terrible cruelty." View Less

There is a significant potential ambiguity when the subject is the third person or a third person object. Investigates the means by which change of subject is indicated in Muyuw, a language spoken on Woodlark Island in the territory of Papua and New Guinea. Applies his insights to particular examples in Biblical translation. View Less

In Third-World countries new translations create joy, but in Europe reaction ranges from enthusiasm to condemnation. The distinction between ‘cultured’ and ‘primitive’ languages is false. Mechanical civilization with picture media is creating a poverty of language. Luther did not know cars; but many modern children do not know about cows, corn and sickles. Translators must choose between the total reservoir of words in a language and those he believes communicate, differentiating levels (vulgar, common and professional). He must choose (1) to make the Greek writer speak German (or English) as Luther sought to do; or (2) to transport the modern into the ancient world (Schleiermacher’s ideal). Most European translations are now professional, but the greatest need are those ordinary readers will understand. Translated from Yearbook of the German Bible Societies, 1970. View Less

Bible revisions are going on throughout East Europe. The attempt to balance accuracy, idiom and adaptation to congregational use as exemplified in TEV is being made in the new Hungarian version. View Less