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In:Translation Studies between Disciplines and Practices
Edited by Luc van Doorslaer and Yves Gambier
[Benjamins Translation Library 174] 2026
► pp. 331–352

Chapter 17
Religion and translation

Meaning-making of the sacred

 | University of the Free State
 | University of the Free State
 | University of the Free State
This content is being prepared for publication; it may be subject to changes.
Abstract
Religious studies and religious practice depend on translation for their existence. The theoretical work of Nida during the second half of the twentieth century within the context of translating religious texts greatly influenced the emergence of translation studies as a discipline. We describe the theoretical, conceptual and methodological input, benefit and impact of each discipline on the other and demonstrate that both disciplines benefit from the widening of translation to include translating nonverbal sign systems into verbal or other nonverbal signs and vice versa. Two important dimensions receive attention: one in which a religion translates its own indigenous tradition to constrain meaning; and one in which a religion translates for itself the god-talk of others.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Philology and the emergence of RS as a discipline
  • 3.Religious translation and the emergence of TS as discipline
  • 4.Widening of TS, complexity and the semiotics of alterity
  • 5.Use of translation in sacred appearance
    and the complexity of traditions
    • 5.1Religions with dominant written traditions
    • 5.2Religions with dominant oral traditions
  • 6.Conclusions
  • Author queries
  • References
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