How Do Bible Translators Pick the Next Language to Work On?
There are hundreds of translations of the Bible. In fact,
there are a bit over 650 Bible translations into other languages. This des not
include the over 1 thousand translations of just the New Testament. While this
may seem like every translation has been covered, there are still many more
languages that need and deserve translations.
While it may seem unimportant to some to provide these
translations, the truth is, people learn more from reading in their native
language, even when they speak multiple languages. While English and Spanish
are quite common, if my home or native language is Spanish, I will prefer it.
The language people are conversational in is the best to learn in over time.
Since the Bible has so many specific meaning word choices, it is important that
these be translated appropriately.
So, the question may come to mind how the next language is
chosen. This actually comes down to need and benefit. When spending time on
translations, the goal is to benefit as many people as possible, especially
those who have little to no access to the Word otherwise. Translators will look
at the largest number of people who could benefit from a new language
translation and choose to translate it next. If a specific region requests a
translation, but a dialect just affects a small group in that area and another
region with more people also wants a translation, the larger region will take
priority.
Application to Your Translation
This same basic thought process can be used when you are
searching for Christian translation services. Once your materials for
translation are complete, choose the language that will most benefit your
intended audience to begin translation. If your goal is to get the materials
into the hands of the most people in a specific country then choose the most
popular language and dialect for that country. This may change a bit if you
want something translated for a very specific tribe or area, but for the most
part the language with the largest impact is the best place to start.
This will require some research on your part to determine
which language and dialect is the most appropriate. Some Christian translation
services may be able to help you determine this or in the least narrow down the
options since they have likely translated into multiple languages. It may also
be helpful to discuss the materials message with a Christian translation
service to make sure a general theme is not in some way disrespectful to the
region you are translating for overall. This may not be a problem for many, but
is something to consider.
Finding a Translation Service
Once you have decided on a language, start looking for
Christian translation services. Choose a translation service that can
proficiently work in the language that you need on a reasonable timeline. This
may be a bit more difficult with more obscure languages, but a good Christian
translation service can either provide the translation or refer you to someone
who can. If the goal is to translate into multiple languages over time, go with
a service that offers multiple languages. These services are often based online
or online and in set locations. This is because hiring multiple translators
means they are likely spread out around the world.
Most importantly, if Christian materials are being
translated, look for Christian translation services so the message you are
sending is well translated. Translation is about more than wording; it is about
the message being sent. The goal is to share what you have created with others,
you want to make sure it is translated by the best. Christian Lingua can help
with your translations so that you may share with those around the world.
Contact us today.
How Do Bible Translators Pick the Next Language to Work On?
Reviewed by Complete Knowledge
on
October 16, 2019
Rating: 5