ORAL BIBLE TRANSLATION
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 मौखिक बाइबिल अनुवाद and 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.
COURSE OFFERINGS
Whole Word Institute offers the following certificates, a degree program, and electives in a degree program for prospective students in Oral Bible translation:
MA Classical (Biblical) Hebrew electives
Prerequisite Course: Performing Scripture
Course 1: Biblical Foundations of Orality
Course 2: मौखिक बाइबिल अनुवाद
MA Classical (Biblical) Hebrew and Translation Consulting
Core MA Courses
Prerequisite Course: Performing Scripture
Course 1: Biblical Foundations of Orality
Course 2: मौखिक बाइबिल अनुवाद
Specialization in OBT and Consulting
Course 3: Advanced Oral Bible Translation
Course 4: Ethnomusicology and Art
Course 5: Media Production
Internship: Oral Bible Translation Internship
We offer the following short courses in the field of Orality in partnership with other agencies around the world:
- Introduction of Orality
- Oral Bible Discovery
Want to learn more about how you can help end Bible poverty through oral translation? Explore our upcoming training programs today.