Jehovah’s Witnesses illuminate World Braille Day with expanded production of Bibles, Literature in over 50 Languages
On the occasion of World Braille Day, observed on January 4th globally, the governing body of Jehovah’s Witnesses drew the attention of the world to the invaluable resources catering to the visually impaired, estimated at 2.2 billion people by the World Health Organization.
Notably, Jehovah’s Witnesses stand out for their unwavering commitment to the welfare of the visually impaired, particularly through their extensive production of Braille literature in more than 50 languages.
For over a century, Jehovah’s Witnesses have been pioneers in producing Bible-based publications tailored for those who are blind or have limited vision.
In 2022, they unveiled the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures in Braille, available in German, Korean, and Ukrainian.
This remarkable feat underscores their dedication to making spiritual literature accessible to diverse linguistic communities.
All Braille Bibles are meticulously produced at Wallkill, New York, using a Braille embosser. This machine intricately embosses Braille dots onto special paper, which is then assembled and bound into volumes before being distributed to branch offices globally.
A complete edition of the New World Translation in Braille can span over 30 volumes, occupying approximately two meters (6.6 ft) of shelf space.
The publications not only transcribe the text but also incorporate visual aids like maps and diagrams, presented in a format comprehensible to the blind.
Jehovah’s Witnesses go beyond the publication of Braille Bibles. They offer a unique workbook titled “Learn to Read Braille,” designed for collaborative use by both sighted and blind individuals.
The accompanying kit includes a slate and stylus, facilitating Braille learners in embossing characters and enhancing memorisation.
Diversity in accessibility options is a hallmark of Jehovah’s Witnesses’ approach. Literature for the blind or those with low vision is available in audio files through the JW Library app and jw.org website, large print, Braille, electronic files for notetakers, and electronic files compatible with screen readers.
In their most recent endeavor, Jehovah’s Witnesses have initiated the production of Braille starter kits in Igbo, Efik, Yoruba, and Pidgin languages.
This initiative aims to address the unique needs of the blind and visually impaired in these regions, recognizing that familiarity with Grade 1 & 2 English Braille may vary.
Through meticulous research, the organization aims to ensure that Braille publications produced in these indigenous languages are accessible and beneficial.
For those seeking further information or access to Braille resources, Jehovah’s Witnesses encourage a visit to jw.org or any Kingdom Hall nearby.
This initiative marks a significant step in making spiritual literature universally accessible, contributing to the inclusivity and empowerment of the visually impaired worldwide.
