Bridging Language Barriers: Insights from a Bible Translator

Becoming Bridge Builders

Reverend Dr. Rich Rudowski, the Executive Director of Lutheran Bible Translators, shares his inspiring journey into the vital work of Bible translation in this engaging podcast conversation. With a focus on making scripture accessible to every language group, Rich discusses the importance of trust in God's faithfulness, a lesson he learned from his mother at a young age. He reflects on his experiences in Botswana, where he and his wife translated the Gospel of Luke into a previously unwritten language, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of bringing God's word to underserved communities. Rich emphasizes the collective efforts of various Bible translation organizations aiming to ensure that every language has access to scripture by 2033, a vision fueled by collaboration and innovative approaches. Listeners will appreciate Rich's passion for his work and the profound impact that access to scripture can have on individuals and communities around the world.

Rich Rudowski, the Executive Director of Lutheran Bible Translators, shares his remarkable journey in Bible translation, starting from his experiences in Botswana to his current leadership role. He discusses the profound impact of translating the Gospel of Luke into the Shkalahari language, emphasizing the challenges and triumphs faced in working with a previously unwritten language. Rich highlights the importance of community involvement in the translation process, detailing how local speakers and leaders informed decisions about which biblical texts would resonate most with their culture. He recounts a poignant moment from their translation work that illustrates the joy and significance of providing access to Scripture for the first time, a theme that resonates deeply throughout his narrative.

The conversation delves into the methodologies employed in Bible translation, showcasing Rich's commitment to equipping local communities with the tools necessary for understanding and sharing their faith. He outlines the step-by-step process of translation, including drafting, community checking, and publication consultation, which ensures the work is both linguistically and theologically sound. Rich also reflects on the technological advancements that have transformed the field, particularly the use of software that streamlines the translation process, making it more efficient and accessible. The episode concludes with Rich's vision for the future of Bible translation, emphasizing a collective effort to ensure that every language group has access to Scripture by 2033, a goal that inspires both urgency and hope within the global Christian community.

Takeaways:

• Rich Rudowski emphasizes the importance of trusting in the Lord's faithfulness throughout life's challenges.
• His journey into Bible translation began with a calling to serve in Botswana's unwritten language.
• The translation process involves community engagement to ensure the scriptures resonate culturally and linguistically.
• Rich highlights the collaborative efforts of various Bible translation organizations to increase global access to scripture.
• He shares that technology, especially AI, has the potential to enhance translation efforts while maintaining ethical considerations.
• The goal is for every language community to access scripture by 2033, marking a pivotal moment for Bible translation.

Links referenced in this episode:

• lbt.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Lutheran Bible Translators
• Eastern Michigan University
• Concordia Seminary
• Concordia Theological Seminary