Unraveling the Complexity of Bible Translation
A Conversation with Dr. Jack Collins
Dr. Jack Collins, a renowned scholar and member of the ESV Translation Oversight Committee, joins us to discuss the intricacies of translating the Old Testament into English. With his unique background in engineering and biblical languages, Dr. Collins offers a fascinating perspective on the art of translation.
From Engineering to Seminary
Dr. Collins’ journey began with a Master of Science from MIT, where he worked as a research engineer before pursuing a PhD in ancient Semitic languages. His experience in systems engineering proved invaluable in understanding the complexities of Bible translation. “It’s about finding a balance between individual parts and the overall system,” he explains.
The Art of Translation
Dr. Collins emphasizes that translating the Bible is not a straightforward process. It requires a deep understanding of the original languages, cultural context, and the ability to make trade-offs. “You sacrifice a little bit of comfort at the sentence level to secure something at the larger level,” he says. This nuanced approach ensures that the translation remains faithful to the original text while conveying its meaning effectively to modern readers.
The Role of Repetition in Translation
One example of this trade-off is the repetition of words or related words in the original text. Dr. Collins notes that capturing these repetitions can reveal the connections between passages and enhance the reader’s understanding. However, this may require sacrificing some precision at the sentence level.
A Feel for the Situation
Dr. Collins stresses that computerized translation lacks the human touch, which is essential for conveying the nuances of the original text. “To do a translation requires a lot more than simply cranking it out,” he says. His own experience with languages, including his ability to pick up sounds and phrases quickly, has been instrumental in his work as a translator.
Pursuing a PhD in Ancient Languages
Dr. Collins’ passion for languages led him to pursue a PhD from the University of Liverpool in England. He never imagined that this path would lead him to be involved in a Bible translation project, but the opportunity arose, and he felt guided by God to pursue it.
Connecting with the English Standard Version
Dr. Collins’ involvement with the ESV began with a phone call from Wayne Grudem, who had been recommended by a colleague. This chance encounter led to his role on the Translation Oversight Committee, where he worked alongside 95 leading Bible scholars and teachers to create the ESV Study Bible.
Throughout our conversation, Dr. Collins offers a glimpse into the intricate world of Bible translation, highlighting the importance of balance, nuance, and human insight in conveying the richness of the original text.
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