Judah, Judea

The name that is transliterated as “Judah” or “Judea” in English (referring to the son of Jacob, the tribe, and the territory) is translated in Spanish Sign Language as “lion” (referring to Genesis 49:9 and Revelation 5:5). This sign for lion is reserved for regions and kingdoms. (Source: John Elwode in The Bible Translator 2008, p. 78ff. and Steve Parkhurst)


“Judah” and “Judea” in Spanish Sign Language, source: Sociedad Bíblica de España

For more information on translations of proper names with sign language see Sign Language Bible Translations Have Something to Say to Hearing Christians .

See also Judah, Judah (son of Jacob) , and Tribe of Judah .

Translation commentary on 1 Maccabees 12:46

Revised Standard Version inserts a paragraph break here, which is appropriate.

Jonathan trusted him and did as he said; he sent away the troops, and they returned to the land of Judah: Translators should render this verse in such a way as to hint to the readers that Jonathan made a serious mistake by sending his troops back to Judea. The translation should give the impression that he left himself unprotected, and with an enemy. A possible approach to this is:

• Jonathan believed him. He did as Trypho wanted him to do, and sent his soldiers home. They went back to Judea.

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on 1-2 Maccabees. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2011. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.