Talmud – God Didn't Say That

Walking the Fine Line of Translation

Thanks to Naomi of Storahtelling for pointing out this ancient (mid-first-millennium AD) thought about translation, from the Babylonian Talmud (Kiddushin 49a): Rabbi Judah said: One who translates a verse according to its form is a liar; and one who adds anything commits blasphemy and sacrilege. (my translation from the Aramaic) Plus ça change…

JoelMHoffman March 24, 2010 1

Ancient Wisdom, Modern Lives

Recent posts from my Ancient Wisdom, Modern Lives:

Interest Rates Old and New: How High is Too High? A short history of ancient interest rates, in light of a 10% cap on credit-card interest rates proposed in the US Senate by Bernie Sanders and Josh Hawley
In the AI of the Storm We should all embrace AI instead of fearing it. Here's why.
Happy Year of the Snake Why is there a year for such a despicable animal as the snake? There might be a very good reason...
The Surprising Connection Between Hanukkah and Christmas Hanukkah and Christmas, which happen to coincide this year, happen to have a surprising shared history. Here it is.
Positivity Is Poisoning the Holidays (but It Doesn't Have To) Here is an antidote the poisonous pressure to be happy, especially during the holidays.

Tag: Talmud

Walking the Fine Line of Translation

Ancient Wisdom, Modern Lives

Recent Comments

Categories