In this paper, the author presents the task of the translator as a multifaceted one, in which translation decisions of many kinds are influenced by a range of interdependent factors. Nida’s understanding of ‘context’ is a broad one and includes not only syntagmatic and paradigmatic contexts within the text, as well as the type of text, but also factors such as language variation, prior translations, subject matter, style of the author, the publisher, the editor, the reader, and the medium of the translation. Contextual factors notwithstanding, Nida concludes by emphasizing the importance of the translator’s personal contribution, acknowledging the role played by interlingual competence as well as subject knowledge. However, above all, he commends the personal integrity of the translator as the most important component in the translation process.