It is important to become familiar with a book before you begin translating or editing it.
Step 1) Start by reading through or listening to the entire assigned book or group of chapters (if it is a longer book). There are several approaches that can be used:
-individually, silently or aloud*
-as a group or in pairs, aloud*
*reading aloud is strongly recommended for any of the books that consist of a lot of poetry, such as the Psalms
-while reading through the book, make a note of any unfamiliar or confusing words or concepts, for later discussion with the group and your Quality Coaches
Step 2) Read or watch an overview of the book.
-The Bible Project provides a visual overview of the shape and core themes of every book of the Bible through an illustrated outline. This resource is available in many languages. Click on the 🌐 icon in the upper right corner to access this resource in languages other than English.
-written book introductions are usually provided at the beginning of each book in any published 'study' version of the Bible available in LWCs
-typically, the book summary will touch on the major themes of the book and provide a chapter by chapter outline
-your Quality Coach should also be able to provide you with a summary if the version of the Bible you are using does not have one
Step 3) Identify the main people and major events described in the book
-if it is helpful, you could draw a timeline of events
-you can also make a 'people map' showing connections and relationships between different people throughout the book, as well as a brief description of who each person is
Step 4) Discuss the key religious terms and concepts that appear in the book, including the unfamiliar terms and concepts you listed in Step 1.
-the MTTs should agree on how they will translate each of the key terms and concepts into their language, with support from the Quality Coaches
You can also contact your team leader for access to the Book-Level Resources folder curated by Avodah, for more resources.
Now you are ready to begin translating or editing the book!