The Bible Translator: Volume 33, Issue 4

As a poem, the first half of Job 28 has a concentric pattern, in contrast to the second half. Verse 28 stands alone as a climax. Reordering may be helpful for new readers. View Less

Because Hebrew is more “distant” linguistically from English, and Hebrew discourse analysis is not well developed, translators leave an unnaturalness in their translations of the OT. Translators must pay more attention to discourse structure in both source and target languages. View Less

Most sex-related figures of speech in the Bible relate to childbirth, marriage, adultery and prostitution. While these events are fairly universal, the meaning of each in any given culture may vary. Translators must be careful to see correct meaning is communicated. The resultant translation must also respect the reader’s views of what language may be used in public. View Less

Descriptions of four basic types of textual footnotes and two of translational footnotes help identify the function and need for footnotes in a translation. View Less

A New Reader selection prepared for the Luo (Sudan) proved too difficult for children. Texts were collected from Luo children to determine their oral language patterns. Common words in a child’s vocabulary, not regional words, are essential. NT drafts should be tested with intended audiences. View Less

Vocabulary changes in the GNB translation were not for novelty but for clarity of meaning and more universal application. View Less

Textual differences do not generally affect basic biblical teachings. The emphasis of textual criticism is positive, affirming the care scribes took in copying Scripture. Generally the shorter and more difficult reading is preferred. Translators should select one or more standard translations as a textual base. When facing a textual problem, they should choose the reading that best fits the context. View Less

Poetry involves sounds and rhythmic length of units. It has complex semantic features such as figures of speech. Translators must be aware of the structure and function of poetry in source and target languages. View Less

Because Muslims form a unique audience, physical format and choice of contents for scripture publications must be carefully considered. Offers specific recommendations. View Less

After considering options, it appears that the more appropriate rendering of these words is that which gives the idea of bread arranged in a layered fashion rather than in rows. View Less