Analysis of Religious Noun Phrase Translation in "Don't Waste Your Life"

This study analyzes the translation of 107 noun phrases containing religious terms in the book Don't Waste Your Life by John Piper into Indonesian. The focus of this study covers three main aspects: the types of noun phrases, the translation techniques used, and the acceptability quality of the translations. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through document analysis and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). The noun phrases are classified into three types: modificative (83%), coordinative (11%), and appositional (6%). The translation techniques are analyzed based on Molina and Albir’s (2002) framework, which identified seven techniques applied in this study. The most frequently used technique is established equivalent (48%), followed by modulation (26%), amplification (9%), calque and transposition (6% each), adaptation (4%), and reduction (1%). Acceptability assessment was conducted based on the translation quality model developed by Nababan et al. Most of the phrases were rated as acceptable, with an average score of 2.85 out of 3. However, some phrases were less acceptable to unacceptable due to lexical choices that were less appropriate to the theological context and Indonesian Christian culture. The results of this study confirm that the accuracy of meaning alone is not enough in the translation of religious texts. Sensitivity to culture and theology is essential to ensure the message is conveyed fully. This study provides theoretical contributions and practical guidance for translators in handling religious texts, especially in the context of Christianity.

Keywords: translation, religious terms, noun phrases, acceptability, Don't Waste Your Life