high priest

The Greek and Hebrew that is translated as “high priest” in English is translated as “the ruler of the priests of our nation” in Yatzachi Zapotec, as “very great priest” in Chol (source: M. Larson / B. Moore in Notes on Translation February 1970, p. 1-125.), as “first over the priests” in Ayutla Mixtec, and “chief of the priests” in Desano (source for this and one above: Viola Waterhouse in Notes on Translation August 1966, p. 86ff.).

In Uma it is translated as “Big Priest,” in Western Bukidnon Manobo as “high sacrificer,” and in Tagbanwa as “Most-important Priest of God.” (See here.)

See also priest and chief priest.

Translation commentary on 1 Maccabees 15:24

They also sent a copy of these things to Simon the high priest: The pronoun They refers to the Roman government, which has not been mentioned. Only Lucius has been spoken of in connection with the letter. Good News Bible conveniently uses the passive voice and avoids the problem. Translators without this option may say “The Romans [or, The Roman government] also sent a copy of this letter to Simon the High Priest.”

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on 1-2 Maccabees. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2011. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.