Asking the right questions November 12, 2014 – Ukarumpa, Papua New Guinea – Written by Karen Weaver with Tim Scott
Boas and Mänsäng want their people to have God’s message in their own language. That’s why they are committed to “turning God’s talk” into Ura. As the main translators for the Ura language, they have many things to consider: What does this passage say? What words could we use in our language to describe this truth? If we said it that way, how will the people interpret it? SIL translator Gary Rosensteel is also committed to the goal of a completed New Testament in Ura. When Boas and Mänsäng came to Ukarumpa in August, Gary had prepared questions and suggestions for their drafts of nine books. He drew on his knowledge of the language, gleaned from many years of working with the team. He considered several things as he looked over their work: Is the text accurate according to the original intent of the author? Is the spelling for each word consistent throughout? Do all sentences follow correct Ura grammar structure? Together they reviewed the notes. When Gary gave a suggestion for an edit, usually the response was an eager, “Yes, that’s good.” A few times when a proposed change was offered, they would pause and say, “Ah, no,” and then a quiet, “We should say it this way.” Once all three were satisfied with the text of the nine books, the translation was ready for its next step: the village check. In this step, Boaz and Mänsäng will be reading the translated Scriptures in the village setting and asking the people: What does this passage say to you? Can you tell me what you learned from this section? Does this verse talk the same way we do? Is there anything here that is unclear? Next, a translation consultant from outside the language group will review their final work on the New Testament books. No doubt he, too, will ask for clarification about some passages. Many questions asked now will ultimately result in a completed New Testament that is accurate, flows smoothly, and talks the way the Uramät Baining people talk. The result will be clear communication of God's message to the Ura-speaking Baining people. For more information on this release, contact ThePNGexperience, PO BOX 413, Ukarumpa, EHP 444, Papua New Guinea Phone: 011 + 675 + 537-3544 ext. 4431 or Email: thePNGexperience@gmail.com Pictures do not always depict actual event, activities or people. Photos by Tim Scott use by permission only. “Tok Save” is the PNG “Tok Pisin” term for announcement or “For your information.” The English spelling conforms to Commonwealth English spelling.