It is one of 84000’s most frequent questions: why does a page costs US$250 to translate? The truth is, a quality translation that will serve as a scholarly basis of study requires far more than typing a phrase into Google. 84000 depends on the knowledge of a scholar, or team of scholars, who have a combination of hard to find skills. This allows 84000 to create quality translations that ensure the most accurate representation of the Buddha’s words possible. 84000’s translators are experts in:
- Tibetan and Buddhist philosophy;
- Buddhist Sanskrit; and
- English, most are native English speakers.
The cost of a page includes more than the translator’s direct translation hours. The translation process is more complicated and time-consuming than it first appears, involving primary and secondary source material research, textual comparisons, research and consultation on tough subject matters and terminology and more. These are some of the essential steps in producing a good translation:
- Obtain and compare multiple versions of the Tibetan text
- Study the meaning of the text, the terms used and any discrepancies among the various versions
- Consult Sanskrit and Chinese versions of the text, along with any other available translations
- Read Indian and Tibetan commentaries as well as academic studies that explain the text
- Research problems and consult with advisors
- Develop several draft translations
- Edit the translation and refine the language
- Prepare notes, footnotes and other supporting materials
- Proofread the translation
For a more detailed overview of the translation process, please view our translation flow chart and refer to our frequently asked questions about donating to 84000.