The World's Oldest Books: On the Bible

How do you translate a text that has shaped language for centuries - and what happens when words need to be replaced? Should Jesus have a body or a flesh? Should humanity rule or have dominion over animals? And will a confirmand in 2036 even know what a "bushel" is?

Rakel Haslund-Gjerrild, author and language consultant in the editorial group for the Old Testament, is in conversation with literature mediator Esben Møller Hansen about the linguistic work behind the forthcoming Bible translation. Sample translations have already been published, and the project is expected to be completed in 2036 - it has sparked ongoing debate. Many of the expressions we use in everyday speech come from the old Bible translations: something can hover over the waters, one can receive a flood of complaints, and there are pearls before swine.

Haslund-Gjerrild has written the books Adam in Paradise, All the Birds of Heaven and Islands, and has also translated Chinese literature. The event is part of the concept 1 BOOK 1 HOUR, where Esben Hansen sets out comfortable chairs for literary afternoon talks. No preparation necessary - you don't need to have read the book beforehand.

Podcast about the new Bible translation: New podcast: What in Heaven's Name? | Bibelselskabet