On September 24, Zaoksky Adventist University in Tula, Russia, hosted a scientific and practical conference. Themed "The Word of Our God Will Endure Forever," the conference commemorated the 150th anniversary of the Synodal Translation of the Bible. The conference was organized by Zaoksky Adventist University and the M. P. Kulakov Institute of Bible Translation.
The conference brought together representatives of various Christian denominations, teachers, researchers, and students. Conference leaders said the diversity of participants enabled varied perspectives on the history and significance of the Synodal Translation, allowing exploration of the text from multiple research and theological perspectives and creating a space for open, professional dialogue around Holy Scripture.
The conference program included historical, philological, and theological research. Presentations focused on the history of the Synodal Translation, its influence on the spiritual life and development of Christian communities in Russia, and the specifics of translating and interpreting individual biblical texts. Participants paid special attention to the complexities of interpreting Holy Scripture and to how translation affects the modern reader's understanding of biblical text.
A first-year student majoring in Theology shared his impressions:
"The conference was a significant event for us: we met representatives of various Christian denominations, [and heard] their experiences and approaches to studying the Holy Scriptures.
"The presentations and interactions with the participants helped expand their knowledge of biblical studies and provide fresh perspectives on familiar issues. Particularly valuable was the insightful dialogue, in which differences between traditions allowed for a better understanding of each other.
"For us, the conference had both academic and Christian significance. It demonstrated that interest in God's Word and mutual respect create the foundation for cooperation in its study and dissemination."
Representatives of Zaoksky Adventist University said hosting conferences like these is of particular importance, seeing the University's mission not only as imparting professional knowledge but also as shaping biblical views, developing a research culture, and preparing people for service to God and society. University leaders said they strive to provide a space of vibrant dialogue and scholarly inquiry.
"Holding a conference of various Christian traditions was one manifestation of this openness. Differences in views and research approaches did not hinder conversation; on the contrary, they allowed participants to hear each other's perspectives, exchange experiences, and delve deeper into issues related to translation and understanding of the Bible," University representatives said.
University representatives said that engaging with the legacy of the Synodal Translation of the Bible is part of the University's broader mission to maintain respect for the history of biblical texts while seeking a language that makes the Bible understandable to new generations.
Zaoksky Adventist University has a historical connection with the study and dissemination of the Bible, and the Kulakov Institute for Bible Translation has been involved in many years of work translating the Holy Scriptures into modern Russian.
The original article was published on the Euro-Asia Division news site.
