Translating Sexual Taboos

Abstract

This paper outlines an approach for translating sexual references in the Bible in a culture that considers the subject taboo in public discussions. Such is the case in most Pacific Island cultures, especially in the Tongan culture. We will look at various examples of sex-related language, and conceptual metaphors in particular. For this, a method is proposed for understanding metaphorical expressions based on Lakoff and Johnson's cognitive linguistic view of metaphor. Then, this method is applied to biblical references to sex in the biblical storyline, focusing especially on the Old Testament. Finally, suggestions are offered for how best to translate sexual terms in Tongan Bible translation.