Bible translators from more than 400 language groups are ready to begin work on translating the scriptures now that they have access to the appropriate technology.
The organisation Wycliffe Associates plans and funds Bible translations, aiming to get the Bible in every language group by helping local people translate. It has now provided the materials for many more translations to take place.
By supplying computer tablets and translation software, the process has been made more efficient as well as making it more possible to do secretively in countries where there is persecution of Christians.
Bruce Smith, President and CEO of Wycliffe Associates said: "Tablets are absolutely essential. They're packed with Bible translation software, and a library of resources," said Smith. "Without tablets, Bible translation is slow and awkward; national translators are reduced to working with paper and pencils."
Through specially designed workshops, translators use a method that enables them to work collaboratively on assigned Scripture passages and then use a quality checking process.
Translators can also now work discreetly and back-up copies of their valuable work on the tablets.
"National Bible translators face the challenges of keeping handwritten Bible translations safe and secure," said Smith.
"But with a computer tablet, every completed line of translation is secure."
In areas where Bibles and churches are illegal, Christians have formed underground churches. One group that met secretly with a Wycliffe Associates team leader is now working on Bible translations in three languages.
Currently there are 1,200 translations in progress using the collaborative, local method.
Wycliffe Associates are currently working on Bible translations in 108 countries.
