Missionary Translators: Translations of Christian Texts in East Asia

Missionary Translators explores the history of missionary translation of Christian texts in East Asia, comparing the features of East Asian languages and the historical context of the translation. It discusses the real-life challenges faced by missionary translators and is a valuable resource for students, historians, scholars, and those interested in East Asian cultures or translation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 114 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Exploring the rich tapestry of missionary translation of Christian texts in East Asia, Missionary Translators delves into a comparative analysis of the unique features of East Asian languages and the historical backdrop that shaped their translation. With a primary focus on the Bible and Christian theological works, this book explores the intricate intersection of linguistics, translation studies, and history. It sheds light on the real-life challenges faced by missionary translators as they endeavored to convey the essence of Christian teachings in East Asian languages.

This comprehensive book is a valuable resource for students, historians, scholars, and anyone with a deep interest in the study of East Asian cultures or translation. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the historical, linguistic, and cultural factors that influenced the translation process, providing a deeper understanding of the complexities involved.

The book begins by tracing the historical roots of missionary translation in East Asia, highlighting the pioneering efforts of early Christian missionaries who brought the gospel to the region. It explores the challenges they faced, including linguistic barriers, cultural differences, and political complexities, as they sought to translate the Bible and other Christian texts into local languages.

The second chapter delves into the linguistic characteristics of East Asian languages, examining their grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. It highlights the unique challenges posed by tonal languages, such as Mandarin Chinese, as well as the importance of preserving cultural nuances and idioms in translation. The book also discusses the role of translation technology in facilitating missionary translation and the impact it has had on the accuracy and accessibility of Christian texts in East Asia.

In the third chapter, the book explores the historical context of the translation process, examining the political, social, and cultural factors that influenced the reception of Christian texts in East Asia. It discusses the impact of colonialism, imperialism, and religious persecution on the translation of Christian texts and the strategies employed by missionaries to overcome these challenges. The chapter also sheds light on the role of local leaders and communities in the translation process and the ways in which they contributed to the spread of Christianity in East Asia.

The fourth chapter focuses on the translation of Christian theological works, such as commentaries, dictionaries, and catechisms. It examines the specific challenges posed by these texts, including the complexity of theological concepts, the use of metaphor and idiom, and the need for accurate representation of cultural and religious traditions. The book also discusses the strategies employed by missionary translators to convey these complex ideas in a way that is accessible and meaningful to East Asian readers.

Throughout the book, case studies are used to illustrate the challenges and successes of missionary translation in East Asia. These case studies showcase the work of individual missionaries, translators, and publishers, providing a firsthand account of the translation process and the impact it has had on the lives of East Asian Christians.

In conclusion, Missionary Translators offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the history of missionary translation of Christian texts in East Asia. By examining the unique features of East Asian languages, the historical context, and the challenges faced by missionary translators, this book provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between language, culture, and religion. It is a must-read for students, historians, scholars, and anyone interested in the study of East Asian cultures or translation.

Weight: 180g
Dimension: 215 x 139 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032129389