discharge

The Hebrew that is translated as “discharge” or similar in English is translated in Kalanga with tjigwele, a term that refers to sexually transmitted diseases. (Source: project-specific notes in Paratext)

In Kwere, the term ufila is used which implies pus (source: Pioneer Bible Translators, project-specific translation notes in Paratext) and in Newari it is translated as “disease of the semen.” (Source: Newari Back Translation)

complete verse (Leviticus 15:12)

Following are a number of back-translations as well as a sample translation for translators of Leviticus 15:12:

  • Kupsabiny: “Any utensil of clay that that person has touched is to be broken, and if it is any utensil of wood it must be washed.” (Source: Kupsabiny Back Translation)
  • Newari: “If that sick person touches a clay pot, the clay pot that was touched must be completely shattered. Wooden vessels must only be completely rinsed with water.” (Source: Newari Back Translation)
  • Hiligaynon: “The clay-pot that this man touches must be-broken, and any/[lit. whatever] thing which is-made of wood that he touches must be-washed.” (Source: Hiligaynon Back Translation)
  • English: “‘If such a man touches a clay pot, that pot must be broken into pieces. Anything made from wood that he touches must be rinsed in water.” (Source: Translation for Translators)

Translation commentary on Leviticus 15:12

The earthen vessel: a literal translation of the Revised Standard Version text may give the impression that a particular object is involved, since the definite article is used. But there is no doubt that this is a more general rule which applies to all containers made of clay, “Any clay pot.”

Every vessel of wood: this refers to any container of any kind that is made of wood. Compare 11.32-33.

Quoted with permission from Péter-Contesse, René and Ellington, John. A Handbook on Leviticus. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1990. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .