Challenges in Translating the Bible into Cuban Sign Language

Bible translation into sign languages constitutes an emerging and essential field within the broader mission of making the Scriptures accessible in the “language of the heart” to all ethnic groups, peoples, and nations. This article examines the most relevant and significant challenges involved in translating the Bible into Cuban Sign Language. Drawing on the experience of projects that have translated selected narratives from the New Testament and, more recently, the Gospel of Luke, published in March 2023, and the Book of Acts, currently in progress, the study identifies and analyzes obstacles of a linguistic, theological, cultural, methodological, and technological nature. Overcoming these diverse challenges is not only crucial for ensuring the fidelity and quality of the translation, but also constitutes an act of justice, inclusion, and recognition of the linguistic and cultural identity of the Cuban Deaf community.