DEAF BIBLE TRANSLATION

Training & Resources for Deaf Bible Translation & Engagement

The need for sign language Bible translation is urgent. Written translations for spoken languages do not provide the Deaf with meaningful access to the Scriptures in their heart language. In response to this great need, the movement for sign language Bible translation has been growing extensively.

Through the Whole Word Institute, we are equipped to address the need for customized source language training and exegetical resources to serve Deaf translators & consultants. The biblical geography and historical sites in the Land of the Bible provide an ideal environment for visually learning the Scriptures, as well as a Hebrew immersion environment, including contact with Deaf teachers and users of Hebrew as a living language.

Investing in high-level training and resources for Deaf translators and consultants can have a meaningful impact on the sign language Bible translation movement and greatly improve the quality and accuracy of the translations produced. We have a significant opportunity to see the Deaf communities around the world flourish as the light of God’s Word brings hope and truth into their midst.

As part of the Whole Word Institute, the Center for Deaf Scriptures is particularly well-equipped to achieve these objectives due to its location in the land of the Bible. The biblical geography and historical sites as well as the plethora of museums and archaeological displays, provide an ideal environment for visual learning of the Bible. The location in Israel also provides a Hebrew immersion environment, including contact with Deaf teachers and users of Hebrew as a living language.

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VISUAL LANGUAGES

Adam Van Goor shares about the beginning of the CDS program from Jerusalem, and the need for source language in Deaf Bible translation.

Study at the Center for Deaf Scriptures

The goal of CDS is to enhance access, understanding and application of the whole Word of God among the deaf  by  providing strategic training and resources for deaf Bible translators together with our partners.

EDUCATION AND TOOLS

CDS  addresses the need for high-level training and resources which are adapted to the specific requirements of Deaf translators by:

Offering training taught in sign language that is tailored to the unique culture and learning style characteristic of Deaf learners, emphasizing visual access to information, group discussion, and interactive learning opportunities with instructors and fellow students
Equipping students with a visual picture of the land, artifacts, culture, fauna and flora of the Bible
Creating resources that address the unique questions raised by sign language Bible translation
Offering biblical Hebrew courses that utilize a methodology appropriate for Deaf students, allowing them to comprehend the written Hebrew source text through visual signs and images

CDS Programs

Deaf Specialization for MA in Classical Hebrew & Translation Consulting

This specialization creates an avenue for Deaf students to study in our MA in Classical Hebrew & Translation Consulting. Accommodations are made so that the content can be clearly understood by Deaf students. Most of the classes will be interpreted into sign language, while some classes are taught in sign language. In addition to the immersive residential program in Jerusalem, the MA-CHT Deaf Specialization is being adapted for extension learning.

We utilize our unique location in Israel to provide an immersion environment in written Hebrew and Israeli Sign Language, which enhances the process of learning Biblical Hebrew. We employ Deaf instructors in Israel who are already experienced in teaching Hebrew to Deaf students. We also provide supplementary instruction through qualified tutors who can sign and communicate directly with Deaf students.

The MA also has an optional Deaf Specialization which includes courses in special skill sets that consultants will need for working with sign language Bible translation projects.

Signed Exegetical Resources

Contextually and linguistically accurate exegetical resources for Deaf translators & consultants, delivered using Deaf-friendly methods and media, both accelerate Deaf Bible translation and improve its quality. These resources will assist Deaf consultants and translators to better understand the original meaning of the Scriptures so that they can more clearly communicate the meaning in sign language. Illustrative media in translations will enhance understanding and enliven the Scriptures. As a result, Deaf people around the whole world will understand the Word of God in a deep and impactful way.

Apply to the MA-CHTC Deaf Specialization

The Ten Commandments in Israeli Sign Language

“Our God is a God who cares for those who are forgotten, redeems those who have been rejected…It is fulfilling to face what seems impossible from the perspective of the world and watch as God makes a way…The success of these students will inspire other Deaf translators who desire to learn biblical Hebrew and demonstrate that it can be done. They are blazing a trail to accomplish what had previously been considered unfeasible.”

–Adam Van Goor, Associate Director, Center for Deaf Scriptures