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Article published In: Target
Vol. 37:3 (2025) ► pp.414–443

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Ideology, power, and a virgin

Translations of Isaiah 7:14 in Norwegian Bible translations as a case study

ORCiD logo with link | University of Agder
Published online: 25 April 2025
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/target.22017.bec
Abstract
Isaiah 7:14 has consistently sparked controversies in Bible translations due to its potential translation of the Hebrew ‘almah as ‘young woman’ or ‘virgin’. This distinction is significant to the doctrine of Mary’s virgin birth of Jesus. This article explores the ideological battles tied to the translation of this verse within Norway’s Protestant landscape, highlighting the power dynamics influencing translation decisions. Drawing upon the sociocultural context, the study focuses on the NO1978 and Bibel 2011 translations by the Norwegian Bible Society, shedding light on the institutional and religious-ideological factors at play during their preparation. Notably, during the 1978 translation process, audience groups wielded diverse forms of power to effect a change from ‘young woman’ (ung kvinne) to ‘virgin’ (jomfru). In contrast, when producing the 2011 version, the Norwegian Bible Society tactically employed various forms of power, including media strategies, to ensure support for the contentious translation ‘the young girl’ (den unge jenta) among conservative circles.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
    • 1.1Ideology and theology
    • 1.2Power
  • 2.Isaiah 7:14 in a Christian context
  • 3.The institutional and religious context of Bible translation in Norway
  • 4.The 1978 translation
    • 4.1Isaiah 7:14 in NO1978
    • 4.2The return of the virgin
    • 4.3The reception
  • 5.Bibel 2011
    • 5.1Isaiah 7:14 in Bibel 2011
    • 5.2Mobilizing power to safeguard reception
    • 5.3The final text and sociological variables in the context of reception
  • 6.Concluding remarks
  • Acknowledgments
  • Notes
  • References
  • Archives
References (95)
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