In a historic development for deaf communities, two landmark Bible translations have been launched in Sign Languages, one in South Korea and the other in Ghana. The release of the complete New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures in Korean Sign Language on March 8, 2025, and the Bible book of Matthew in Ghanaian Sign Language on March 16, 2025, marks significant milestones that enhance Scriptural access for the deaf.
Brother Stephen Lett, a member of the Governing Body, announced the complete Korean translation during a special meeting held in Goyang, South Korea. Approximately 7,226 people participated in person, while an additional 64,960 individuals tuned in via videoconference. Lett emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating, "This is the first complete Bible translation ever produced in Korean Sign Language." This translation caters to about 100,000 users, which includes over 1,700 individuals who are part of 39 sign-language congregations and two groups throughout South Korea.
Just a week later, on March 16, 2025, Brother Joel Grim from the Ghana Branch Committee unveiled the Gospel of Matthew in Ghanaian Sign Language at a special program in Kumasi. This event saw an attendance of 1,554 individuals onsite, along with 424 attendees connecting through videoconference. Grim remarked, "This is the first Bible book ever translated into Ghanaian Sign Language," highlighting the relevance of the translation for the estimated 211,000 people who communicate using that language. In Ghana, more than 1,250 individuals are involved in 32 sign-language congregations and 35 groups.
The completion of these Bible translations not only signifies a tremendous achievement in translating sacred texts but also opens a pathway for enhanced spiritual engagement among the deaf communities in both countries. With such efforts, these communities can now access the Scriptures in their native language, eliminating barriers that hindered spiritual growth in the past.
In South Korea, the development represents more than a translation; it embodies a long-desired incorporation of Korean Sign Language into religious practices. The enthusiasm surrounding the launch indicates the desire among the deaf community to engage more deeply with their faith. Church leaders believe that having access to the Scriptures in a format they can fully understand will empower the community spiritually and socially.
Similarly, in Ghana, the response to the release of the Gospel of Matthew has been upbeat, with community members expressing excitement over having material that reflects their language and dialect. The introduction of this Bible book means that deaf individuals can partake more fully in religious studies, discussions, and church activities aimed at enhancing their faith.
The translations also reflect broader intentions within the leadership of these organizations to embrace inclusivity and diversity in their outreach, resonating with a global commitment to provide access to spiritual resources for all individuals, regardless of their ability to hear.
Both translations are available for immediate download on jw.org as well as through the JW Library and JW Library Sign Language apps, making these spiritual resources easily accessible to those in need. The immediate availability demonstrates a modern approach to delivering content that aligns with the needs of contemporary congregants.
In conclusion, these monumental achievements in translating Scriptural texts into Korean and Ghanaian Sign Languages signify a bright future for deaf communities, enabling them to connect with their faith like never before. The access to these translations is expected to drive engagement in spiritual practices and enhance community building within their respective congregations. It’s a momentous occasion that not just binds individuals to their faith but also fosters an environment of understanding and acceptance across diverse language communities.