Bible Background

Knowledge of the history and context of the biblical texts enables a consultant to bring a broader perspective to a team’s translation of a particular text.

Here are some resource suggestions to help you grow in your Bible background skills:

1. Bible Lands as Classroom videos

The Bible Lands as Classroom videos present a detailed visual introduction to the geographical, cultural, social and archaeological background to the Bible and its relevance for translation. Some excerpts from these videos are freely available from SIL International Media Services, or embedded in the Translation Insights and Perspectives tool.

2. Resources on Textual Criticism

The following books provide helpful introductions to issues in textual criticism:

Wurthwein, Ernst. 2014. The Text of the Old Testament: An Introduction to the Biblia Hebraica. 

Ellis R. Brotzman & Eric J. Truly. 2016. Old Testament Textual Criticism. A Practical Introduction. 

Paul D. Wegner. 2006. Textual Criticism of the Bible. Its History, Methods, and Results.

These videos also introduce issues in textual criticism:

Tip: Choose one of these resources to read or watch and discuss with your mentor.

3. Bible background videos on Youtube

Here are some channels with good information on Bible background:

Tip: Spend an hour watching through some of these videos and write down ten new things you’ve learned about the background to the Bible, and how you think they might have an impact on translation. Then create a playlist of other videos you want to watch in the future.

4. Useful books on Bible background

These are some useful books on Bible background to help with translation:

  • Keener, C. S. (2014). The IVP Bible background commentary: New Testament (Second Edition). InterVarsity Press.

Tip:

Further resources that might interest you

  • Do you know of a good resource that should be listed here? Please let us know.
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