Where We Serve / Dhirayta Bible Translation
Dhirayta Bible Translation
Support ongoing Bible translation work in Ethiopia as translators continue making more of Scripture available to Dhirayta speakers.
Bible Translation
Country
- Ethiopia
Region
- East Africa
Language Population
80,500
About the Dhirayta Bible Translation Program
Building on earlier Scripture translation work in Dhirayta, this program continues the translation of the Old Testament for Dhirayta speakers in Ethiopia. The current plan includes all 39 Old Testament books, with 408 chapters completed and 85 chapters in progress. As more Scripture becomes available in Dhirayta, churches and communities gain greater access to God’s Word in their language.
Empower the Dhirayta Community
The Dhirayta Bible Translation project continues to build on years of translation work in Ethiopia. As Old Testament books move through translation, checking, and review, more Scripture becomes available to Dhirayta speakers in their own language.
Program Goals
- Continue Old Testament Translation
- Complete Translation and Consultant Review
- Expand Access to Dhirayta Scripture
Dhirayta Bible Translation Program Plan
Step 1
Advance Old Testament Translation
- Continue translation work on books currently in progress.
- Draft and review additional Old Testament books.
- Prepare translated portions for team and community checking.
Step 2
Complete Translation Checking
- Conduct team checking of translated Scripture.
- Gather community feedback on translated portions.
- Prepare books for consultant review and final approval.
Step 3
Expand Access to Scripture
- Share completed Scripture portions with churches and community leaders.
- Encourage use of available Dhirayta Scripture resources.
- Strengthen collaboration between translators, reviewers, and ministry partners.
Meet the Local Team
Team Members
Official Partner: Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus (EECMY)
Translation Team
- Rev. Hatano Haitosa – Team Leader
- Alemenash Kusiya – Translator
- Pastor Firew Hansamo – Translator
- Ayele Tilahun – Scripture Engagement Worker
Community Participation
- 8 Language Committee Members
- 11 Reviewers
- 2 Back Translators
Partner Organizations
Honoring the Language
The Dirasha people primarily speak Dhirayta, a language used throughout the Dirashe area of southern Ethiopia. People speak it in Gidole and neighboring communities south and west of Lake Chamo. Kusumitta is the primary Dhirayta dialect.
Program Progress
Help Bring Scripture to Life
Your gift supports Dhirayta Bible translation in Ethiopia, helping translation teams complete Old Testament books, prepare Scripture resources, and expand access to God’s Word in Dhirayta-speaking communities.