Artigenda
International Translation Day
When: Anually, September 30.
International Translation Day takes place annually on Sept. 30. This is a day assigned by the United Nations (UN) to highlight the importance of translators and their work. The day coincides with the day to pay tribute to St Jerome, patron of translators. Saint Jerome. was responsible for translating the Bible into Latin.
Source: Wikimedia Commons.
Who was St Jerome?
Jerome of Stridon (somewhere between 342 and 347 – September 30, 420), also known as St Jerome, was, was a prominent early Christian scholar, theologian, and translator. Born in Stridon, a town on the border of Dalmatia and Pannonia (modern-day Croatia and Slovenia), Jerome is best known for his translation of the Bible into Latin, known as the Vulgate.
Because of his education, Stridon visited Rome. Here he studied classical literature and rhetoric. His conversion to Christianity led him to a monastic life, where he travelled extensively, including to Antioch, Constantinople, and Bethlehem. Jerome was a prolific writer, producing numerous commentaries on the Bible, letters, and theological treatises.
The translation of the Bible, the Vulgate, was commissioned by Pope Damasus I (c. 305 – December 11, 384) in 382. This would later become the standard version of the Bible for the Roman Catholic Church for more than a millennium.
The translation by Stridon was instrumental in making the scriptures accessible to a broader audience and in shaping Western Christianity.
Origins of International Translation Day
The idea of celebrating International Translation Day was first proposed by the International Federation of Translators (FIT) in 1953. However, it wasn’t until May 24, 2017, that the United Nations General Assembly officially adopted a resolution recognizing September 30th as International Translation Day. This resolution acknowledges the role of professional translation in connecting nations and promoting peace, understanding, and development.
Role of translators in society
Translators, interpreters, and terminologists play a vital role in our increasingly globalized world. They enable communication across different languages, making it possible for people from diverse linguistic backgrounds to understand each other. This is essential in various fields, including diplomacy, business, science, technology, literature, and entertainment.
Various ways around the world
International Translation Day is being marked in various ways around the world. Professional organisations, academic institutions, and translation companies often host events such as conferences, workshops, and seminars to discuss the latest trends and challenges in translation. These events provide opportunities for translators to network, share knowledge, and celebrate their achievements.
Themes and focus areas
Each year, International Translation Day has a specific theme that highlights a particular aspect of translation. For example, past themes have included “Translation and Diversity,” “Translation and Interpreting: Connecting Worlds,” and “Translation and Indigenous Languages.” These themes aim to raise awareness about the diverse and dynamic nature of the translation profession and its impact on society.
Challenges faced by translators
Despite the crucial role they play, translators often face numerous challenges. These can include issues related to working conditions, recognition, and fair compensation. Additionally, the rapid advancement of technology, such as machine translation, has introduced new challenges and opportunities for translators. While technology can assist in the translation process, it cannot fully replace the nuanced understanding and cultural sensitivity that human translators bring to their work.
Future of translation
The future of translation is likely to be shaped by ongoing technological advancements and the increasing demand for multilingual communication. Innovations such as artificial intelligence and neural machine translation are expected to continue evolving, offering new tools and resources for translators. However, the human element of translation will remain indispensable, as effective translation requires not only linguistic skills but also cultural competence and empathy.
