Karaite tradition of Arabic Bible translation, The
Book Description
This scholarly exploration delves into a fascinating chapter of medieval religious history, examining how the Karaite Jewish community approached the sacred task of translating biblical texts into Arabic. Through careful linguistic analysis of tenth and eleventh-century manuscripts from Palestine, Meira Polliack uncovers the distinctive methods and philosophical principles that guided these ancient translators.
The study reveals how Karaite scholars developed their own unique approach to rendering the Pentateuch into Arabic, driven by their particular understanding of scripture's purpose and meaning. By examining individual Karaite statements about translation theory alongside their actual practice, the work illuminates the deep spiritual and intellectual considerations that shaped their efforts to make sacred texts accessible to Arabic-speaking communities.
The research places these translation practices within their broader historical context, comparing Karaite methods with those of other medieval Jewish scholars like Saadiah Gaon. This comparative approach helps readers understand how different religious communities grappled with the challenge of preserving sacred meaning while adapting texts for new linguistic and cultural contexts.
For those interested in the intersection of language, spirituality, and cultural transmission, this work offers valuable insights into how religious communities have historically approached the delicate balance between faithful preservation and meaningful adaptation of their most cherished texts. The study demonstrates how translation becomes not merely a linguistic exercise, but a profound spiritual undertaking that reflects deeper theological commitments.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~9 hours)
📄 Length: 338 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Study Bible from spiritual perspective
- ✓ Explore Bible, criticism, interpretation, etc., o. t. pentateuch
- ✓ Explore Karaites
- ✓ Explore Versions
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Explore Criticism, interpretation
- ✓ Explore Bible
- ✓ Explore Bible, language, style
