Provides an overview of the process of Bible translation, paying particular attention to problems related to the translation of sacred texts. Students will apply existing skills in biblical exegesis and linguistic analysis to cross-linguistic communication, with particular consideration given to key biblical concepts and themes, figurative language, identification of genre, and concerns about authenticity among receptor language communities.

Prepares linguists and literacy workers to guide speakers of an unwritten language to develop an orthography that will accurately represent the sound system of the language, be acceptable to the speakers of the language, and be easily learned for reading and writing the language. This includes consideration of both linguistic and sociolinguistic factors, and representation of non-segmental features such as tone. Although the focus is on alphabetic scripts, non-Roman scripts, including syllabic and logographic, are also considered.

Focuses on issues related to gender (including such topics as the roles and relationships of female and male characters in the Bible) within the contexts of the ancient Near East, Second Temple Judaism, the Greco-Roman world, the Jesus movement and the early Church. Also provides opportunity for the study and critique of the transmission and interpretation of these traditions within the early, medieval, Reformation, and contemporary eras.