An Examination of the Acceptability of Nyakyusa 1996 Bible Among The Nyakyusa of Rungwe and KYyela in Tanzania

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the level of utilization of the Nyakyusa 1996 Bible. The study was guided by the following objectives; (i)To evaluate the level of utilization of the Nyakyusa 1996 Bible, (ii) To identify factors affecting the acceptability of Nyakyusa 1996 Bible, (iii) To examine the performance of mother tongue Bibles in Tanzania,(iv) To make recommendations on the way forward regarding Bible translation among the Nyakyusa people. The study employed qualitative and quantitative research design. Questionnaires, interviews and Focus Group Discussion (FGD), were used to collect data. Questionnaires were administered to 40 respondents while the (FGD) comprised four groups of 40 members, 10 members in each group. The interviews were conducted with four bishops who were considered as key informants. The quantitative results were analyzed using excel application and presented in tables while the qualitative data were presented using narration. The study found out that people actually knew about the existence of the Nyakyusa 1996 Bible. The majority did not buy the Nyakyusa 1996 Bible because they could not understand it. The Nyakyusa people found the Nyakyusa 1996 Bible difficult, it had difficult terms and language signs that could not be comprehended. The utilization of the Nyakyusa 1996 Bible was found also to be affected by the mixed cultures in Nyakyusa areas. This has led to many churches using Swahili Bibles so as to cater for those who are not Nyakyusa. Swahili Language has also become very popular among the youth and the old. People prefer to communicate in Swahili and this has affected the usage of Nyakyusa 1996 Bible. Swahili is becoming the first language for many young people who grow up speaking Swahili and hence aren’t able to use their native language. The study therefore recommended that the Bible Society of Tanzania, consider revising the Nyakyusa 1996 Bible and this time involve the community and the church leaders. Finally, the study also suggested that church ministers should encourage the use of the Nyakyusa 1996 Bible by the church members.