In their latest magazine, JAARS* have been exploring some ‘sci-fi’ technologies which will, and are, enabling the work of Bible translation. Included in their list are smartphones, new media players and unmanned aircraft.
For many of these ideas, the technology is already developed and starting to be used. They take the technology and methods already being used, and try to use them in a new way. Take this idea:
Have you ever noticed the abundance of picture books and videos that tell Bible stories such as David and Goliath, Noah’s Ark, and The Life of Jesus? But how many have you seen that illustrate the book of Romans, Galatians, or Ephesians?
Probably none.
Why might it be useful to illustrate Romans?
[…] For oral cultures, whose speakers often communicate ideas and teaching through stories rather than abstract, logical styles, the New Testament epistles are difficult to understand. But if these cultures can hear the verse and see a simple animation that visualizes the concept, they can more easily understand the passage.
What does this have to do with Bible translation? Imagine national workers translating a passage of Romans. If they understand the concepts well, then choosing the right wording is easier. Read more from visualwisdom.org.
Some animations for key Biblical concepts are already being tried out — and the aim is to complete all of Romans in pictoral form. But more workers are needed to see it in action.
You can read more of JAARS ‘sci-fi’ ideas in their magazine, Rev. 7.
*JAARS partner with Wycliffe Bible Translators and other Bible organisations to provide transport, technological and communications support around the world.
