General note on the art of translating

Translations come basically in three categories: following the exact wording as far as the new language allows --- which should be very far and go to the extent of giving the language an, albeit understandable, twist; this is probably only possible to a native speaker. The second category is giving an interpretation; then the translator becomes part of the translated work. Thirdly, making a paraphrase in order to explain or elucidate the original text.

BÔ YIN RÂ ’s work allows clearly only the first category of translation as the other two involve the translator to an extent not permissable in the light of the uniqueness of the person BÔ YIN RÂ and of his message. The translator may, as any other human being, have a feeling, a presumption or a supposition of the eternal spiritual world, he cannot act in it as he can on earth. Therefor it is presumptuous to indulge in interpretation and paraphrasing when translating BÔ YIN RÂ . If one feels called to give an explanation one can take one’s recourse in writing an essay on the subject.

In effect, the unprepared reader in the new language who does not know which category of translation he has in front of him may certainly not be led astray and thus be prevented from making his own judgement and his own explanation (essential for reaching an understanding by one’s heart).

Work by BÔ YIN RÂ has been translated into almost every European language. In English there are now two translations available: the authorized / endorsed translation offering 16 titles of the Hortus Conclusus and the standard translation offering all 32 titles.

In order to find your way to the translation best suited to you the next paragraph may be helpfull.

 


 

 

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