By: Natalie Bennett
Now is your chance to shine the light of Jesus into the hearts of Indigenous Australians through Badayala for Bibles.
Bible League is partnering with 14 radio stations across Australia, with the goal to provide 4,000 Plain English Version (PEV) Bibles for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
What is the Plain English Version?
Bible League is currently working with Wycliffe Bible Translators to develop a Bible specifically designed for Indigenous Australians. The Plain English Version (PEV) is a special Bible translation for Indigenous Australians who speak Aboriginal languages, but also have English as a second language.
As of 2023, Bible League have seen more than 5,500 Bibles planted in the hands and hearts of Indigenous people, by working in partnerships with more than 400 evangelists, in hundreds of communities around Australia, as well as 10,000 plus downloads of the PEV Bible app.
The PEV includes many Bible books and a Mini-Bible with parts of the New Testament, Genesis, and 1 & 2 Samuel (as of 2023). The PEV is still being translated, with new parts added regularly.
It uses plain language features common to Aboriginal languages, such as avoiding passive voice, using action words instead of abstract nouns, and shorter sentences.
The translation makes sure the original meaning is clear, explains hidden information, and clarifies figurative language.
Why is the Plain English Version Needed?
The Plain English Version (PEV) is needed because many Indigenous Australians speak Aboriginal languages and find traditional Bibles hard to understand. The PEV uses plain language and grammar familiar to them, making the Bible’s message clear and easy to understand.
Your generosity can place PEV Bibles into the hands of Indigenous Australians, offering them the hope and guidance of God’s Word in a language they can understand.
By giving today, you are expressing the true meaning of the word “Badayala” – light – and spreading the message of love and salvation found in Jesus.
Donate now and light up a life with the Word of God!
Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.
Images: Supplied by Bible League