THE WORD

A study of the craft of translating the Bible.

Esteemed biblical scholar Barton, the author of many books on the Bible and Christianity, introduces readers to the art of translation. After barreling through a cursory but serviceable history of Bible translation, the author moves on to explore his topic in depth. “This book is about how translators negotiate the difficult task of producing usable versions of the Bible in the language of their own day, while remaining true to the original,” he writes. “It is a task that raises issues of faith and interpretation, as well as the obvious technical requirements, such as an intimate knowledge of the languages in which the Bible was written.” Barton explores the many nuances of a dichotomy he characterizes as either “bringing the Bible to the reader” or “taking the reader to the Bible.” In the former case, the translator stresses meaning and message over technical correctness. In the latter, the translator focuses on an accurate, even “literal,” rendering of the original text. Barton argues, however, that there are more possibilities available to translators than this single choice. He also notes that “the ‘adequacy’ (rather than perfection) of a translation is time- and context-bound.” In other words, a translation’s value should be judged by how it fulfills its purpose in a given culture, time, or setting. The author also examines a variety of challenges unique to Bible translators. For instance, which primary texts should one use as a basis for a translation? With Hebrew Scriptures, especially, there are a wide variety of possibilities. Also, in what ways can and should inclusive language be used in a Bible translation? Barton’s work is accessible but certainly geared toward students of language and of Biblical history and content. His choice of translation examples is broad, illustrative, and erudite.

A densely packed yet fruitful review of the philosophy behind Bible translation.