Bible translation in Kuki-Chin of Indo-Myanmar and Bangladesh: A historical analysis

Abstract

This chapter gives an idea of the notion of the tribe; group formation within a tribe and assertion of identity with Kuki-Chin ethnic group as case study. The Kuki-Chin group which evolved into different identical subgroups in a process of fission over time developed their dialects and Bible was translated into different Kuki-Chin dialects, thereby acting as a disintegrating agent. In unequivocal terms, the chapter holds Bible translation into the dialect of individual subgroups responsible for reinforcing the subgroup divisions within the Kuki-Chin group. Thus, the chapter traces contemporary ethnic issues in Kuki-Chin group to the historical event of Bible translation during colonial period. The chapter argues that the Bible translation into different dialects reinforced the variations and resulted in the assertion of micro group identity on the basis of such variations. The chapter further describes the adverse impact of this translation on tradition in general and on traditional calendar in particular.