Bible Translating as a Loyal Activity: A Model for Bible Translation in the Majority World - Softcover

Houston, Tobias J.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1666773441 ISBN 13: 9781666773446

Publisher: Wipf and Stock, 2025

Synopsis

How can Bible translations remain faithful to the original text while deeply respecting the cultural and religious contexts of their audiences? This book introduces the concept of Loyal Bible Translation, a nuanced framework inspired by the Hebrew concept of ḥesed, sometimes translated as “covenant loyalty” and “steadfast love.” Rooted in the idea of unswerving commitment, this approach to Bible translation balances loyalty to the source text with loyalty toward the needs of its audience. Drawing on modern translation studies and guided by the “Beaded Necklace” model, this book weaves together historical, cultural, linguistic, and religious dynamics to ensure Bible translations resonate authentically with their audiences while maintaining loyalty to the source text. The author draws insights from his Majority World experience in Mozambique, with this approach addressing the challenges of Bible translation among diverse audiences that are shaped by dominant faith traditions like Islam and in contexts characterized by orality. By introducing the idea of the “Translation Covenant,” it offers a hopeful and relational path forward in the complex art of Bible translation in the Majority World.

About this title

About the Author

Tobias J. Houston is a research fellow in the Hebrew Department at the University of the Free State, South Africa. He is also a team member of Baptist Mission Australia with whom he has served in Mozambique with his wife and three children since 2011.

Edition details

• Publisher: Wipf and Stock
• Publication date: 2025
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1666773441
• ISBN 13: 9781666773446
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 210