Attaining Quality in Oral Bible Translation: A Guide to Effective Practice

Abstract

In the rapidly advancing field of oral Bible translation (OBT), agreeing on principles for maintaining high-quality translations is now necessary. This article offers a robust guide for achieving quality in OBT, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required to ensure a high-quality translation. Drawing upon literature in linguistics, biblical studies, and performance studies, it offers tools for thinking about what constitutes quality in a finished OBT and how it can be achieved by translation practitioners (translators, advisors, exegetes, trainers, or consultants) and other parties (administrators, stakeholders). This paper adds to current discussions on OBT by examining the intricate interplay between “performance”, linguistics, and meaning in communication and using that interplay as the basis for exegesis strategies. Furthermore, it presents field-tested strategies from multiple OBT consultants to streamline the OBT process and optimize quality outcomes. The paper proposes a definition for standards of quality in OBT and shares effective strategies for its achievement. In doing so, it not only lays the groundwork for progress in OBT practice and research but also provides valuable insights for translators, consultants, trainers, administrators, and stakeholders.