Translation technique and translating a translation: with special reference to Ezekiel 8-11

Abstract

The Peshitta of Ezekiel had been regarded as a free translation since the time of Cornill to the Commentary of Zimmerli. Martin Mulder, however, regarded it as a fairly literal translation. The relationship of the Peshitta of Ezekiel to the Septuagint has also been described in different ways, with some scholars postulating a substantial degree of dependence of the Peshitta on the Septuagint. This paper will look at some aspects of the translation technique of the Peshitta of Ezekiel. This study demonstrates the freedom of the translator when faced with rare words and his use of idiomatic Syriac, but his fidelity to his Vorlage as well.