St. Jerome

Definition

St. Jerome was a Christian scholar and translator, best known for his translation of the Bible into Latin, known as the Vulgate. This translation became the standard text for the Catholic Church and played a crucial role in the history of translation studies, influencing both religious thought and linguistic development in Europe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. St. Jerome was born in the late 4th century and is considered one of the Church Fathers due to his contributions to early Christian literature and theology.
2. His most famous work, the Vulgate, was completed around 405 AD and became the official Bible of the Catholic Church for over a millennium.
3. Jerome advocated for accuracy in translation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the original languages of biblical texts, which was revolutionary for his time.
4. He also produced commentaries on various books of the Bible, further establishing his influence in biblical scholarship and hermeneutics.
5. St. Jerome's work laid foundational concepts for translation studies, particularly regarding fidelity to original texts and the balance between literal translation and interpretation.

Review Questions

• How did St. Jerome's approach to translation influence later practices in translation studies?
  • St. Jerome's approach emphasized accuracy and fidelity to original texts, setting a standard for future translators. His insistence on understanding the original languages influenced how translations were approached in subsequent centuries, promoting a balance between literal translation and interpretative understanding. This foundation has been essential in shaping modern translation theory and practice.
• Discuss the significance of the Vulgate in shaping Christian doctrine and its role in the development of Western literary traditions.
  • The Vulgate was not only a crucial text for Christian doctrine but also influenced Western literary traditions by establishing a standardized version of biblical narratives. Its widespread use throughout the Middle Ages helped unify various Christian communities under a common scriptural reference. Additionally, it affected the development of vernacular languages as scholars sought to translate it into local dialects, laying groundwork for future literary works.
• Evaluate St. Jerome's legacy in translation studies and its relevance to contemporary discussions about translation ethics.
  • St. Jerome's legacy in translation studies remains significant as it raises ongoing discussions about translation ethics, particularly regarding accuracy versus readability. His commitment to translating sacred texts with fidelity has sparked debates about how translators navigate cultural contexts while maintaining original meanings. Contemporary translators continue to grapple with these ethical dilemmas, making Jerome's work relevant in discussions on how best to honor source texts while making them accessible to new audiences.

Related terms

Vulgate: The Latin version of the Bible translated by St. Jerome, which became the standard text for the Roman Catholic Church and had a significant impact on biblical scholarship.

Translation Theory: The academic study of the theory and practice of translating texts from one language to another, which has been shaped by historical figures like St. Jerome.

Septuagint: The ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, which St. Jerome often referenced in his own translations and work.