Translanguaging: Leveraging Multilingualism for Scripture Engagement

Abstract

Members of multilingual communities conceptualize language differently from the way monolinguals do. Most Bible agencies model monolingual approaches to engaging with the Bible. Some agencies emphasize gateway languages while others highlight vernacular languages. Many multilinguals prefer an unbounded, performative approach to languages that reflects their dynamic, hybridized identities; one term for this is translanguaging. Translanguagers make meaning by using words from their full linguistic repertoire. Using translanguaging theory and methodologies, Bible agencies can model Scripture engagement approaches that more naturally correspond to the language practices of many multilinguals.