July 2021

5 more reasons why Google can’t translate the Bible

by Emily Lupfer
July 28, 2021August 16, 2021
1 Comment

Google can do so many things: resolve dinner table arguments, magically change its logo on the daily and even anticipate what question I’m going to ask next.

But one thing Google can’t do is translate the Bible. We’ve already looked at five reasons why it just doesn’t work (see previous blog), and now it’s time to explore even more reasons why Google and other computer programs can’t come close to replacing the work of human translators.

5 reasons why Google can’t translate the Bible

by Emily Lupfer
July 21, 2021July 14, 2021

There are a lot of things I don’t understand: physics, the general logistics behind air traffic control and why I turn down the radio when I’m driving so I can see better.

Another skill my brain has never fully been able to grasp is the ability to learn different languages. It’s always been a challenge; just ask my high school and college French instructors!

Artificial intelligence translation programs like Google Translate are used all over the world to interpret everyday conversations, website content and more. But what you end up with can often sound closer to one of my second grade attempts at writing poetry than intelligible thoughts.

The work of Bible translation is complex, and it requires teams of passionate and talented individuals working through unique scenarios on a daily basis. Don’t just take my word for it, though! Here are five real-life reasons why human translators, not computer programs, are needed for clear, accurate and natural Bible translations.

Which Wi-Fi Media Box?

by Martin Lange
July 14, 2021July 14, 2021

A detailed comparison of the ConnectBox, LightStream Pocket, MicroPi and BibleBox Pi

How do you get digital resources into the hands of people who aren’t connected to the Internet? How do you distribute apps, videos, audio, documents, and images to people who can’t afford the data it would take to download those materials? What if those people live in remote areas where they don’t have access to a cellular network?

What is EthnoArts?

by Matt Menger and Justin Randolph
July 7, 2021August 16, 2021
1 Comment

Communication is happening all the time, all over the world, and it’s not just limited to spoken language. We connect with other people through the arts such as song, dance, stories, movement, and a variety of other media. The arts are a powerful way to communicate important messages that often go beyond words to speak more deeply to the heart. Unfortunately, all too often outsiders have neglected or, even worse, rejected local culture and arts outright as valuable methods of communication. Misunderstanding has resulted either in outright rejection or in misuse of these expressive forms. In the field of EthnoArts, we believe that communities have unique cultural gifts and artistic expressions that are an integral part of their identity.