Helong Bible (HEGWBT)

Overview

The Helong Bible, containing Genesis and the New Testament, was published in 2011 with copyright held by Unit Bahasa dan Budaya [1]. Helong is an Austronesian language of the Central Malayo-Polynesian branch, spoken in the vicinity of Kupang on the southwest tip of West Timor and on nearby Semau Island in Nusa Tenggara Timur Province, Indonesia [2][3]. Despite the Helong people having been introduced to Christianity approximately 200 years ago, they had never had Scripture in their own language until this translation was completed [4]. The main mother-tongue translator was Misriani Balle, who was joined by a team of farmers, university professors, and pastors in the translation effort [4][5]. The Helong language has three dialects -- Semau (the most vibrant), Bolok, and Funai -- with the mainland varieties experiencing significant decline due to the dominance of Kupang Malay [3]. The translation was dedicated in 2012, marking a historic moment for the Helong community [4].

Language and People

Helong (ISO 639-3: heg) is spoken by approximately 14,000 people in Indonesia, Nusa Tenggara and Southwestern Maluku. [Glottolog: helo1243]

Publishing and Organizations

Published by Wycliffe Bible Translators USA.

References