The art of translation has played a central role in human development for thousands of years. Even in ancient civilizations—such as in ancient Egypt or Mesopotamia, where different peoples met—the ability to understand foreign languages was a key skill for sharing knowledge, trade, and culture. Translators acted as bridge-builders between cultures, conveying not only words but entire worldviews.

A significant example of early translation is the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament from the 3rd century BC. For many Greek-speaking Jews, it provided their first access to their sacred scriptures. This translation forged a connection between Jewish and Greek culture and laid the foundation for dialogue between Judaism and the Hellenistic world.

During the Middle Ages, the importance of translation became even more apparent. With the translation of classical Greek and Roman works into Arabic by scholars of the Islamic Golden Age, such as Avicenna or Averroes, ancient knowledge found its way back to Europe. Latin translations formed the basis for the European Middle Ages and the Renaissance by reviving science, philosophy, and medicine. 

The transition to modernity was significantly shaped by translations that facilitated the exchange of knowledge and cultural understanding. Works such as Martin Luther’s translation of the Bible into German not only contributed to the spread of Christianity but also promoted the development of the German language and culture. Translation served as a driving force for social and cultural reform.

In today’s global age, translation remains just as significant. It continues to be the key to communication in a world where languages and cultures interact in unprecedented ways. Translators and interpreters enable dialogue between nations and lay the groundwork for global cooperation in science, trade, and politics.