CENTER FOR DEAF SCRIPTURES

The need for sign language Bible translation is urgent. Written translations for spoken languages do not provide the Deaf with meaningful access to the Scriptures in their heart language. In response to this great need, the movement for sign language Bible translation has been growing extensively.

Deaf translators are faced with a unique set of challenges as they seek the training and resources necessary to carry out their work. First, it is difficult for Deaf translators to access the information taught in a traditional classroom designed for hearing students. While an interpreter can be utilized to convey course material, this creates an artificial communication environment that often leads to gaps in understanding and isolation of the Deaf student. In some cases, the method of education excludes Deaf students even when an interpreter is present.

Second, Deaf translators are challenged to find educational content and resources that address the unique needs of sign language Bible translation. Because sign languages are visual languages and utilize a different mode of communication than the original spoken/written text, translators must make difficult decisions about how to fill in the visual information (such as the size and shape of objects, the layout of the scene, and even the facial expressions of the characters). Sign language Bible translators must receive special training in order to provide this visual information in a way that properly simulates reality and accurately conveys the meaning of the biblical text.

Investing in high-level training and resources for Deaf translators and consultants can have a meaningful impact on the sign language Bible translation movement and greatly improve the quality and accuracy of the translations produced. We have a significant opportunity to see the Deaf communities around the world flourish as the light of God’s Word brings hope and truth into their midst.

As part of the Whole Word Institute, CDS is particularly well-equipped to achieve these objectives due to its location in the land of the Bible. The biblical geography and historical sites as well as the plethora of museums and archaeological displays, provide an ideal environment for visual learning of the Bible. The location in Israel also provides a Hebrew immersion environment, including contact with Deaf teachers and users of Hebrew as a living language.

CDS  addresses the need for high-level training and resources which are adapted to the specific requirements of Deaf translators by:

• Offering training taught in sign language that is tailored to the unique culture and learning style characteristic of Deaf learners, emphasizing visual access to information, group discussion, and interactive learning opportunities with instructors and fellow students
• Equipping students with a visual picture of the land, artifacts, culture, fauna and flora of the Bible
• Creating resources that address the unique questions raised by sign language Bible translation
• Offering biblical Hebrew courses that utilize a methodology appropriate for Deaf students, allowing them to comprehend the written Hebrew source text through visual signs and images