Modern Bible Translations

The practice of translating the Bible stretches itself out over a period of more than 2,500 years and is still ongoing. It is hard to exactly define the period that covers the modern era in Bible translation. Two aspects can be considered in this regard. First, it is generally agreed that there is a close link between the modern missionary movement that started toward the end of the 18th century and Bible translation. The founding of Bible Societies, which started in 1804 (British and Foreign Bible Society) and culminated in a worldwide fellowship of Bible Societies in 1946 called United Bible Societies, as well as the establishment of other Bible (translation) agencies such as Wycliffe Bible Translators (1942) and the Catholic Biblical Federation (1968), has given a tremendous impetus to Bible translation. The era of modern Bible translation roughly covers this period from 1800 onward. Apart from the fact that Bible Societies and other agencies generally work in conjunction with the churches, there have also been Bible translation initiatives by churches themselves, ecumenical councils, publishers, and individuals during this period. Secondly, the development of translation studies (sometimes called “translatology”) as an emerging academic discipline has had a significant influence on modern Bible translations. This development started in the 20th century and has particularly gained momentum since the second half of that century. Bible translation theory has also been influential outside the confines of its own field of expertise, particularly in the 1960s. At the same time it is noted that modern Bible translation has been increasingly influenced by secular translation theories. In order to get a clear understanding of the modern era, it is essential to consider the preceding history as well. The basics of current translations can be traced back to earlier periods in history. The preface of each published translation usually reflects on its background in terms of its origins, translation principles, target audience, and confessional orientation.