For 70 million people, sign language is their heart language.

There are more than 400 unique sign languages in the world.

95% of these sign languages have NO Bible translation.

बहरे बाइबिल अनुवाद

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.

Whole Word Institute is equipped to address the need for customized source language training and exegetical resources to serve Deaf translators and 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.

EDUCATION AND TOOLS

We address 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
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.