Acknowledgement of translation work for Ētahi Karakia Bahá’í

On Sunday 9 September, the National Spiritual Assembly in collaboration with the Local Spiritual Assemblies of Waikato cluster held a gathering to thank Dr Tom Roa, his “team” and whanau, at Dr Roa's Pūrekireki Marae, at Pirongia for the work that has gone into the translation of prayers of the Central Figures of the Faith, compiled into New Zealand’s first substantive Bahá’í prayer book in te reo Māori, Ētahi Karakia Bahá’í.

It is hoped that this occasion and the precious taonga will offer an opportunity for building new relationships with Māori friends in the wider community as well as enhancing existing relationships.

Maintaining the authenticity of the writings, conveying their original intent and upholding their integrity meant Dr Roa often had to bypass English translations and refer back to the original languages they were revealed in. The process was not a quick one nor was it without its challenges. Dr Roa was faced with words and expressions that did not have Māori equivalents. “It was extremely important that the depth and richness of the words were made clear,” he said.

Approximately 150 people attended the hui to thank Dr Roa and his team, and acknowledge their meticulous commitment to the project.