What is a Bible Translation Consultant?

A consultant is a guide, advisor, and encourager throughout the translation process. Consultants strengthen and support the team of translators, and thus the translation as well.  

Rev. Chuck Tessaro, a longtime respected consultant in Nigeria, explains, “Translation consultants help translation teams in various ways. The translation consultant doesn’t really drive the translation but is like a spare tire trying to provide what is needed…of course, in the end, you go through the translated work verse by verse with the team and approve it for translation. So, it takes significant experience in Bible translation.” 

Bible Societies and other Bible publishers require all Scripture translations to undergo strict checking and approval through qualified Translation Consultants before clearing them for publication. In these final checks, the translators and consultant gather together, reading or listening to every verse. The consultant asks questions about the meaning of words, key terms, cultural issues, naturalness, adherence to original meaning, and more. 

Consultant-in-Training

Ruthie Wagner has recently been appointed as a Consultant-in-Training with Lutheran Bible Translators. She will be mentored by Rev. Chuck Tessaro as she completes a doctoral program for a DMin in Bible Translation from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Preparation for such an important role takes time and energy, but Ruthie is excited to serve the translation community in this way! 

Please pray for God’s wisdom and clarity to surround all consultants as they advise and check various translations of Scripture. May their dedication bear much fruit!