The Impact of Bible Translation on Language Revitalization

A Comparison of Luther’s Translation into German and Crowther’s Translation into Yoruba

Abstract

In the past, comparative studies of Bible translations into German and Yoruba have focused on linguistic issues (cf. Oyebola 2008). Also, there have been few researches, comparing the role of Bible translation and its impact on language revitalization in the European and African contexts. This study aims to fill this gap. To achieve this, Luther‘s Bible translation into German and Crowther‘s translation into Yoruba shall be used for the study. The historical background to these translations and their implications for the language revitalization in the German and Yoruba societies shall be explored. Findings show that both translations used for the study have played a role in revitalizing the German and Yoruba languages. This study is significant in that it reveals that Bible translation is not just a mere act but that which has serious impacts on language and society.