Joseph

The term that is transliterated as “Joseph” in English is translated in American Sign Language with a sign that relates to a) the coat he wore (see Gen 37:3), b) the holding of his clothes by Potiphar’s wife (see Gen 39:12), and c) the many times Joseph experienced grief. (Source: Ruth Anna Spooner, Ron Lawer)


“Joseph” in American Sign Language, source: Deaf Harbor

In Spanish Sign Language it is translated with a sign that signifies “dream,” referring to Jacob’s dream at Bethel (see Genesis 28:10 and the following verses). (Source: Steve Parkhurst)


“Joseph” in Spanish Sign Language, source: Sociedad Bíblica de España

Learn more on Bible Odyssey: Joseph .

For more information on translations of proper names with sign language see Sign Language Bible Translations Have Something to Say to Hearing Christians .

Reuben

The Hebrew that is transliterated as “Reuben” in English is translated in Spanish Sign Language with the sign for “head” or “leader” referring to the position he had among his brothers as the firstborn. (Source: Steve Parkhurst)


“Reuben” in Spanish Sign Language, source: Sociedad Bíblica de España

For more information on translations of proper names with sign language see Sign Language Bible Translations Have Something to Say to Hearing Christians .

More information on Reuben (son of Jacob) and the Tribe of Reuben .

complete verse (Genesis 37:29)

Following are a number of back-translations as well as a sample translation for translators of Genesis 37:29:

  • Kankanaey: “When Ruben returned then to the well coming-from where-he-had-gone, Jose was not-there. He immediately-tore his clothes because his thoughts were extremely painful (i.e., he was very sad).” (Source: Kankanaey Back Translation)
  • Newari: “When Reuben came back and looked into the well, not seeing Joseph there he tore his upper garment.” (Source: Newari Back Translation)
  • Hiligaynon: “When Reuben returned to the well Jose (was) not there anymore, so he tore his clothes in sadness.” (Source: Hiligaynon Back Translation)
  • English: “When Reuben returned to the pit/cistern, he saw that his younger brother was not there. He was so grieved that he tore his clothes.” (Source: Translation for Translators)

Translation commentary on Genesis 37:29

When Reuben returned … pit: this verse makes clear that Reuben was not with his brothers when they took Joseph out of the pit and did not know what they had done. It is possible that Reuben had gone to the cistern to rescue Joseph. We know from verse 22 that he wanted to do so and send Joseph home.

He rent his clothing: tearing of the clothing was the symbol that a person was overcome by sudden grief, sorrow, or anger. See Josh 7.6; 2 Sam 1.11; 3.31. If this gesture is kept in translation, it may be necessary to add an explanation of the purpose; for example, “He tore his clothes because he was grieved.” In some languages it will be more appropriate to omit the gesture and say something equivalent to “He was overcome by sorrow.” In some languages figurative expressions are used; for example, “his liver turned cold” or “his innermost became heavy.” In some cases a local gesture that displays these emotions may be used.

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, William D. and Fry, Euan McG. A Handbook on Genesis. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1997. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .