Interpreting for Tibetan masters – Are Dharma Interpreters Professionals?

Interpreting for Tibetan masters - Part 2

Are Dharma Interpreters Professionals?

After reading the first post on this issue, it should be clear now that the answer can only be yes. It is a highly specialized profession which requires intensive training. Many interpreters look back to 10-15 years of studies. A lot of people need a long time to properly master the Tibetan language. An interpreter also needs a good knowledge of the subject matter he works with. This is often underestimated. In the case of Tibetan interpreters working with Buddhist masters, extensive Buddhist studies are required. Learning the Dharma and its terminology properly is something which takes a lot of time. Hence, a good Tibetan Dharma interpreter ideally is a highly qualified specialist. 

Nevertheless, there is indeed a big difference to a regular profession: people usually receive a salary for their job. Very often, Dharma interpreters are not paid for their work. In many groups, it is customary that they receive a little donation though. From a traditional religious perspective, this is of course fine. There is however a problem.

Why are there so few good Tibetan interpreters?

People sometimes ask me why there are so few good interpreters (or translators) for Tibetan. Is it that the language is so difficult? I don’t think so. There are also so many institutes which try to educate interpreters and translators. Why aren’t they able to produce more capable people in the end? Some seem to think that the education in these institutes is not very good. One can’t deny that there are certainly things which could be improved. Still, overall I would say that most of these institutes do quite a good job and offer a wonderful education. 

Interpreting for Tibetan masters – a profession like any other?

“Interpreting for Tibetan masters“ – a profession?

Some people might be puzzled about the use of the term "profession" when reading this. Of course, working closely together with a high Lama or Rinpoche is not a job, they will say. “It’s a blessing. How can you even equate this to an ordinary mundane work or job?”

This is indeed true. For the most part, it is very inspiring to spend time with Buddhist masters, helping them to promote their teachings. On the other hand, for those who do this on a regular basis, it has some features which are quite similar to a normal job. Interpreting for a Tibetan master for example goes along with a lot of duties, tasks and responsibilities.

Interpreting is time-consuming

Much like a regular job, it is also very time-consuming. If you interpret 15 to 20 weekend courses a year, this will amount to approximately 40 full interpreting days. According to information on the website of the AIIC, this corresponds to 50% of a conference interpreter’s yearly workload.

Interpreting needs preparation

In addition to actual interpretation work, a Tibetan interpreter also has to prepare for his or her engagement. Being invited to interpret at a Dharma course, one is very often also involved in the preparation of the course. There is quite a lot that needs to be done beforehand. If you live in a center, you are anyway involved. Even if not, you may still have to help with the communication between teacher and Buddhist community, for example determining the teaching’s topic, its exact title, content and program.

Ideally, you also prepare before coming to a course. Tibetan teachers have a great repertoire with a large range of subjects. Each field has its own terminology which you may need to learn or repeat beforehand. Just think about H.H. the Dalai Lama. He often speaks about Western science and uses associated Tibetan terminology. These terms are often even unknown to a majority of Tibetans. You really can’t afford to show up at a course with no clue about the subject.