Judah, Judea

The name that is transliterated as “Judah” or “Judea” in English (referring to the son of Jacob, the tribe, and the territory) is translated in Spanish Sign Language as “lion” (referring to Genesis 49:9 and Revelation 5:5). This sign for lion is reserved for regions and kingdoms. (Source: John Elwode in The Bible Translator 2008, p. 78ff. and Steve Parkhurst)


“Judah” and “Judea” 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 .

See also Judah, Judah (son of Jacob) , and Tribe of Judah .

Translation commentary on Judith 4:7

Ordering them to seize the passes up into the hills: Passes are narrow, often deep, routes through the mountains. In areas of the world where mountains are non-existent, passes must be translated with a descriptive phrase; for example, “deep, narrow paths through the mountains.”

For languages that require direct speech in the context of the written message here, Contemporary English Version‘s model will be helpful:

• Joakim wrote, “Set up defenses right away in the mountain passes that lead into Judea. They are wide enough for only two people to use at a time, so you’ll easily stop enemy troops from invading.”

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on Judith. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2001. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.