TRADUCTION ORALE DE LA BIBLE

Training & Tools for Oral Bible Translation & Scripture Engagement

Speaking the Language of the Heart: Oral Bible Translation

“We must be guided by their language, by the way they speak, and do our translation accordingly.”  —Martin Luther

The Reality: 80% of the World Communicates Orally

To end global Bible poverty, we have to meet people where they are.

Today, roughly 80% of the world’s population prefers oral communication over text. Oral Bible Translation (OBT) is the strategic centrepiece of this mission. It bridges the gap for oral-visual communities by translating Scripture into performance-based, multimodal formats they can truly engage with, understand, and own.

An Ancient Approach for the Modern World

Scripture translation has always been driven by the need to connect. Since the days of the ancient Near East and early Christianity, the translation process has adapted to how people actually communicate. Generally, translation falls into two main categories:

 

  • Textual Translation: Written text for readers.
  • Performance Translation: Living communication for listeners and viewers. This includes both Traduction orale de la Bible et Sign Language Translation.
Core Pillars of Oral Bible Translation

OBT focuses on how language feels, sounds, and lives in a community. It emphasizes:

  • Natural Speech: Matching the genuine, everyday rhythm of the language.
  • Internalized Storytelling: Moving scripture from a page to the heart.
  • High Memorability: Creating audio, or audio-visual, that sticks with the listener.
  • Embodied performance: Ensuring the message is crystal clear when performed.
  • Cultural Resonance: Making meaning in ways that respect and reflect local communication traditions.
Empowering the Next Generation of Translators

Our training programs equip students with the practical skills needed to bring oral scripture to life. Through our curriculum, you will learn how to:

 

  • Master the Oral Framework:Design and manage a natural, speech-first translation process.
  • Internalize & Draft:Move from deep understanding to authentic oral drafting and recording.
  • Ensure Accuracy:Execute rigorous quality checks through community discussion and peer review.
  • Utilize Modern Tech:Harness specialized software tools built specifically for oral translation teams.
OFFRES DE COURS

Whole Word Institute offers the following certificates, a degree program, and electives in a degree program for prospective students in Oral Bible translation:

Cours à option de la maîtrise d'hébreu classique (biblique)

Cours préalable : L'interprétation de l'Écriture
Cours 1 :  Les fondements bibliques de l'oralité
Cours 2 : Traduction orale de la Bible

MA Hébreu classique (biblique) et conseil en traduction

Cours de base du MA
Cours préalable : L'interprétation de l'Écriture
Cours 1 : Les fondements bibliques de l'oralité 
Cours 2 : Traduction orale de la Bible 

Spécialisation dans l'OBT et le conseil

Cours 3 : Traduction orale avancée de la Bible 
Cours 4 : Ethnomusicologie et art 
Cours 5 : Production médiatique
Stage : Stage de traduction orale de la Bible 

We offer the following short courses in the field of Orality in partnership with other agencies around the world:

  • Introduction de l'oralité
  • Découverte orale de la Bible

Want to learn more about how you can help end Bible poverty through oral translation? Explore our upcoming training programs today.