Outline the process of the translation of the bible from the original language into local languages

• Old Testament Translation:
  • The Old Testament was originally written in Hebrew and some parts in Aramaic.
  • The first translation of the Bible from Hebrew into Greek was done by the original translators, known as the Septuagint.
• New Testament Translation:
  • The New Testament was originally written in Greek.
  • The second translation of the Bible, spearheaded by Christian scholar Jerome in the 4th century, was called the Vulgate.
  • During the 16th century, translations were made into various languages, such as English (King James Version) and German (by Martin Luther).
• Translation for Missionary Purposes:
  • During the missionary era, the Bible had to be translated into the languages of the people being evangelized.
  • The British and Foreign Bible Society, founded in 1804, coordinated translation efforts.
  • In East Africa, Johann Ludwig Krapf translated the New Testament into Kiswahili.
• Translation into Local African Languages:
  • The first complete translation of the Bible into an African language in East Africa was into Luganda in 1896.
  • In Kenya, the Bible has been translated into various African languages, including Kikuyu, Kamba, Dholuo, Kalenjin, and Luhya.
• Versions of the Bible:
  • In Kenya today, different versions of the Bible are used, including the Revised Standard Version, Good News Bible, Jerusalem Bible, New International Version, Living Bible, and more.
• Effects of Translation:
  • The translation of the Bible into African languages allowed Africans to read and understand it better, leading to improved communication and increased acceptance of the gospel message.
  • Christianity became more native to Africans, and they actively participated in spreading the gospel.
  • Africans re-discovered their cultural identity and demanded better treatment on certain issues.

The translation increased the demand for formal education among Africans.