Translating Proverbs Using Oral Bible Translation, Local Genres, and Performance

A selection of biblical proverbs is being translated into Altai (Republic of Altai, Russia) using an oral method. The team researched local genres and used a poetic approach to make the translation accessible and natural for the target audience. They examined Altai folk proverbs and the setting and context of Hebrew proverbs before proceeding to translate the selection of biblical proverbs into the Altai language. Focus groups gave responses to the translated proverbs and accompanying contextualised illustrations and compared them to the same proverbs already translated using a written method. The orally translated versions of the proverbs were overwhelmingly chosen as clearer and more memorable. Finally, a live performance and discussion of the translated proverbs helped to make the meaning more accessible and contributed feedback on improving the translation. Overall, the orally translated proverbs were attractive and engaging to the community.