Toward a Theology of Translation
It is essential to have a biblically-based theology of Bible translation in order to correctly understand the importance of the task, its place in the purposes of God for humanity, and its ultimate potential to give glory to God.
As a preliminary step in developing such a theology, I propose twelve propositions that provide a scriptural basis for reflecting on language and the translation of Scripture.
Following the chronology of Scripture, I address the creation and purpose of human language in the broader context of redemptive history. I then consider God’s use of language with his covenant people, noting the preservation of his revelation in writing. Moreover, I reflect on the Holy Spirit’s work on the day of Pentecost and the implications for the church. Finally, the Apostle John’s visions of the throne of God in Revelation provide further insights into the significance of human language in the purposes of God.
https://www.aaronandsusanshryock.com/blog/our-blog/12-steps-toward-a-theology-of-translation
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I have update and expanded the blog post on 12 steps to a theology of translation. I added, for example, the following:
The Church, globally and in every language community, has been entrusted with the ministry of the Word of God. The Church is to minister the Word and should ensure that local churches in every language community are able to read, preach, and teach the Scriptures in their own languages in obedience to the Scriptures. Churches should recognize their unique role in the ministry of Bible translation.
Aaron Shryock Oh there's no doubt that there's definitely a form of linguistic injustice at work when we compare the availability of the Bible in English to its availability in other languages. I do think we have to be careful about how we apply that to our theology of translation.
Certainly, given that the barriers between language/variety/dialect are hard to define, there seems to be some justification for having different translations for different audiences within a language.
In terms of resources, I'm not sure it's a zero-sum game between new translations in languages that have them and translations in languages that don't have them. At the recent BT conference, it was shown that Bible Translators projects in new languages are starting at a faster pace than ever before. This is while new translations in English continue to grow.
The two can co-exist and could conceivably feed off each other.
I just updated the blog post on 12 topics in a theology of language and translation. I have also added links to more recent posts on related topics such as Babel, translating for the glory of the Lamb, and more.
Here is a link to an updated version of this blog:
https://aaronandsusanshryock.com/12-steps-toward-a-theology-of-translation/
Enjoy.