This essay explores the translational processes which, in a range of languages historically influenced by Latin, have led to the strong entrenchment of the concepts of "substance" and "essence". Expressions such as essential characteristics or a substantial contribution reveal a linguistic worldview in which defining qualities are conceptualised as objects of inherent possession. It is argued that the emergence and spread of this worldview may be connected to a particular interpretation of the key Aristotelian term ousia, translated into Latin as substantia and essentia, in the course of religious debates. The translational journey of ousia in dominant Western metaphysics demonstrates the power of translation in propagating worldviews which, once sufficiently entrenched, are not easily challenged.