Joseph

The term that is transliterated as “Joseph” in English is translated in American Sign Language with a sign that relates to a) the coat he wore (see Gen 37:3), b) the holding of his clothes by Potiphar’s wife (see Gen 39:12), and c) the many times Joseph experienced grief. (Source: RuthAnna Spooner, Ron Lawer)


“Joseph” in American Sign Language, source: Deaf Harbor

In Spanish Sign Language it is translated with a sign that signifies “dream,” referring to Jacob’s dream at Bethel (see Genesis 28:10 and the following verses). (Source: Steve Parkhurst)


“Joseph” in Spanish Sign Language, source: Sociedad Bíblica de España

complete verse (Genesis 46:4)

Following are a number of back-translations as well as a sample translation for translators of Genesis 46:4:

  • Kankanaey: “I will accompany you (sing.) to go to Egipto and then I will return your (sing.) descendants just the same to this country. And when you (sing.) die, Jose will-be-there to watch-over you (sing.).'” (Source: Kankanaey Back Translation)
  • Newari: “I will go with you to Egypt. I will bring your descendants back from there. When you die, your son Joseph will be with you.'” (Source: Newari Back Translation)
  • Hiligaynon: “I myself will-be-with you in going to Egipto and in returning-back to Canaan. And when you (sing.) die, Jose will-be there at your (sing.) side.'” (Source: Hiligaynon Back Translation)
  • English: “I will go down to Egypt with you, and later I will bring your descendants back to Canaan again. And Joseph will be with you when you die.'” (Source: Translation for Translators)

Translation commentary on Genesis 46:4

I will go down with you to Egypt: for go down see 12.10 and 26.2. Go … with means more than to accompany; it has the sense of “guide and protect.” You is singular, as God is addressing Jacob.

You is also singular in the next clause, and I will also bring you up again. Note, however, that Good News Translation says “bring your descendants back.” Good News Translation interprets God’s promise as referring, not to Jacob personally and individually, but to his offspring through him. This is supported by Driver, von Rad, and Westermann, and is recommended to translators. The point is being made that the story of the patriarchs is at an end with Jacob in Egypt, and the story of the exodus shifts to the descendants of Jacob, the people of Israel.

Joseph’s hand shall close your eyes is literally “Joseph will put his hand upon your eyes.” The custom of pulling down the upper eyelids of a dead person is not known in some areas. For example, some people cover the dead person’s face, others place coins over the eyes, while others paint the face. Translators must decide if the local custom is suitable to be used in this context. If not, a more general expression, such as “be with you when you die” (Good News Translation), may be preferred. Another possibility is “When you die, Joseph will bury you.”

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, William D. and Fry, Euan McG. A Handbook on Genesis. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1997. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .