Colombian Bible Society Completes Landmark Translation for Indigenous Peoples

In Colombia, two indigenous groups have received a powerful gift—the Bible, now translated into their native tongue. The Colombian Bible Society has announced the completion of a Bible translation into Wayuunaiki, the language spoken by the Wayú and Nasa communities. According to recent data, these groups make up nearly a third of Colombia’s indigenous population.

This historic translation is the first time a complete Bible has been made available in a native Colombian language. The effort took thirteen years and involved a dedicated team of biblical scholars, native speakers, and language experts. Their goal was to ensure that the translation was accurate and deeply resonant with these communities’ cultural and spiritual lives.

The Wayú people, who inhabit the Guajira Peninsula along Colombia’s northern coast and parts of Venezuela, have long struggled with the dominance of the Spanish language. This new translation is more than just words on a page; it’s a bridge to spiritual and cultural identity, offering them the opportunity to hear the Word of God in the language of their ancestors.

The Colombian Bible Society is not stopping here. They are already working on another translation into Nasa Yuwe, further deepening their connection with these indigenous groups.

The organization’s head, Alexander Gómez, expressed his deep satisfaction with the project, stating, “We know there will be transformations at personal, community, and socio-cultural levels. Each Wayú brother and sister who hears the Word of God in their native language will experience the love that God expresses to us.”

This milestone is being celebrated across the region for its religious significance and impact on preserving and revitalizing indigenous languages and cultures.