ART Andrew Thren Translating Cultural Bound Full text
English
Edu Vol.11, No.1, January 2013: 56-66
TRANSLATING CULTURAL BOUND ELEMENTS IN AN INDONESIAN
SUPERNATURAL ARTICLE INTO ENGLISH LANGUAGE
Andrew Thren
Faculty of Language and Literature
Satya Wacana Christian University
Salatiga
INTRODUCTION
Translating supernatural articles can pose
numerous problems as a translator has to
decipher how to render culture-bound elements
from the source text into the target language. A
translator needs to transfer the written message
of the source text with the same message into
the target foreign language. Nonetheless, with
culture-bound words this is often very
challenging. Some words or concepts in the
source language may be too deeply rooted, so
that it makes translating the idea in the target
language rather taxing. Certain ideas may be too
56
culture-specific for readers of the target language
to comprehend. Besides thinking about the
culture-bound elements, a translator also needs
to consider the prepositional content, subjectverb agreement, pronoun usage, vocabulary,
parts of speech, and grammatical cohesion,
understand the correct word choice, formal
language related to the article, subtle nuances,
and double entendres present in a supernatural
article. Supernatural articles are particularly
different from other kinds of texts in that the
translator must consider the type of text it is and
who the targeted readers are to know best how
to translate the text.
Translating Cultural Bound Elements in an Indonesian Supernatural Article into English Language (Andrew Thren)
A translator has the task of accurately
transferring what is said in one language into
another. In translating a supernatural article, a
translator needs to be competent in understanding
the cultural concepts present in the source
language and be able to relay those ideas
accurately in the foreign language. A translator
should be conscious of idiosyncrasies in the
target language (TL) and be able to successfully
convey ideas and source language specific words
from supernatural articles into the target
language through various methods. Venuti (1995,
p.1, as cited in Munday, p.144) uses the term
invisibility to describe the translator s situation
and activity in contemporary Anglo-American
culture. Venuti sees this invisibility as typically
being produced by the way translators themselves
tend to translate fluently into English, to produce
an idiomatic and readable translated text, thus
creating an illusion of transparency . This illusion
of transparency is beneficial in the target
language, as it lets the readers think they are
reading the original text and not a translated text,
which allows them to read it more fluently
without linguistic or stylistic peculiarities.
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Larson (1984), as cited in Simatupang
(1999, p.39) divides translation into meaningbased translation and form-based translation. A
literal translation can be categorized as a formbased translation. Translation is generally
categorized into seven main categories, starting
with a very literal translation, literal translation,
modified literal translation, inconsistent mixture
translation, near idiomatic translation, idiomatic
translation, and unduly free translation (Larson,
1984, p.17, as cited in Simatupang, 1999).
When translating from Indonesian to
English, various kinds of translation strategies
can be used like modulation, equivalence, and
adaptation. Modulation is a variation of the form
of the message, obtained by a change in
perspective. With modulation, the translator
changes the point of view of the message without
changing the meaning to make the sentence more
natural sounding in the target language. For
example, Il est facile de demontrer can be
translated as It is not difficult to show . However,
this would be more natural in English to write
in a positive way It is easy to show (Hatim
and Munday, 2004, p.150). The same applies in
translating from Indonesian language to English.
It is more natural to translate tidak gampang
as easy instead of not difficult .
The equivalence technique is used to
translate idioms when two languages refer to the
same situation in very different ways. Hatim and
Munday (2004, p.150) state that the equivalence
technique is used if the same situation can be
rendered by two texts using completely different
styles and structural methods. An example of
equivalence is when translating meong to
meow or nguik to squeak or kukurukuk
to cock-a-doodle-doo . Larson (1989, p.22)
gives an example of an idiom in Indonesian
language. Panjang tangan is a term for someone
who likes to steal. It cannot be translated literally
into long hand or long arms in English
because it will convey a meaning that is quite
different from the original idea.
The adaptation technique is a unique type
of situational equivalence, as this technique is
used when the type of situation being referred
to in the SL text is foreign in the TL culture. In a
situation like this, the translator has to create an
equivalent situation. Fawcett (1997) states that
equivalence takes place when the receiving
culture has little or no experience that would
allow it to understand a close translation. In an
instance where a situation like this may occur, it
is best to adapt it to the receiving culture.
Baker (1992, p.26-42) also has several
translation techniques that can be applied such
as translation by a more general word (for non
equivalence in propositional meaning between
that word and what it refers to or describes in a
real or imaginary world), translation by a more
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English
Edu Vol.11, No.1, January 2013: 56-66
neutral or less expressive word (for dealing with
sensitive issues, such as politics, religion, sex,
etc. to avoid a wrong expressive meaning in the
translation), translation by cultural substitution
(involves replacing a culture-specific expression
with a target-language expression which does
not have the same propositional meaning but is
likely to have a similar impact on the target
reader), translation using a loan word or loan
word plus explanation (deals with culturespecific items, modern concepts, and buzzwords.
An explanation is given that follows loan words
when the word is repeated several times in the
text, so that the reader can understand it and is
not distracted by further lengthy explanations),
translation by paraphrase using a related word
(used when the concept expressed by the source
item is lexicalized in the target language in a
different form. It is used when the word in the
source text is significantly higher or unnatural
than it would be in the target language),
translation by paraphrase using unrelated words
(used if the source text contains an expression
that is not lexicalized in the target language.
Unrelated words can be used to paraphrase by
modifying a superordinate or unpack the
meaning of the words you want to paraphrase),
and translation by omission (used if the meaning
conveyed by a particular item or expression is
not vital enough to the text. The translator can
simply omit translating the word or expression).
Therefore, these and many other different
techniques can be used by a translator when
translating a supernatural article from Indonesian
to English, depending upon the need of the
translator to produce the most idiomatic sounding
translation.
THE STUDY
In this study I analyzed individual
university university student translations of two
different supernatural articles from Indonesian
to English language. The first article is an
advertisement and the second article is an
58
informational article. I chose 28 words and
expressions from the first article and 44 words
and expressions from the second article to be
analyzed. The words/expressions analyzed are
highlighted in italics and numbered in parentheses.
The Indonesian supernatural complete texts are
in Appendix 1 and Appendix 3 with the idiomatic
translated supernatural texts in Appendix 2 and
Appendix 4. The first article analyzed in
Appendix 1 was Susuk Berlian Samber Lilin
based on the individual translations of 18 students
(3 students were absent). The second article
analyzed in Appendix 3 was Mengendalikan
Pasangan Lewat Ilmu Gaib based on the
individual translations of 21 students (all students
were present). The results of the student
translations are in Table 1 and Table 2 divided
into idiomatic, near idiomatic, and non idiomatic
classifications. The types of translation errors in
the tables are important as they reveal to what
extent the students are able to fathom the subtle
nuances in translating culturally-specific terms
from Indonesian to English language.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
The results of the study can be seen in
Table 1 and Table 2. On one side, translating
these kinds of articles from Indonesian to English
is enjoyable for students. However, they often
have difficulties in deciding how to properly
translate magic related or culturally-specific
words and concepts into English. In many
aspects, numerous difficulties arise.
From the 28 expressions chosen from the
supernatural article in Table 1, students were able
to make 78 or 15.6 percent overall idiomatic
translations. Idiomatic translations are those
which can be accepted as being proper translations
in the receptor text. From the same expressions,
students were able to do 170 or 34 percent near
idiomatic translations. Near idiomatic translations
are those in which the translations are close
enough to being idiomatic but have minor errors
in word choice. From these expressions, there
Translating Cultural Bound Elements in an Indonesian Supernatural Article into English Language (Andrew Thren)
was a total of 252 or 50.4 percent non-idiomatic
translations. Non-idiomatic translations are those
which have major mistakes in translations, so
that it renders them unacceptable in the receptor
text. The large number of non-idiomatic translations
reveals that translating non-standard terminology
from Indonesian to English language poses
numerous difficulties for students, as they are
not exposed to this kind of vocabulary in their
academic studies and do not read these kinds of
articles in English language on their own. Students
tend to read articles about supernatural or
mysticism themes in their source language only.
From the 44 expressions chosen from the
supernatural article in Table 2, students were able
to make 224or 24.2 percent overall idiomatic
translations. From the same expressions, students
were able to do 232 or 25.1 percent near
idiomatic translations. From these expressions,
there was a total of 468or 50.7 percent nonidiomatic translations. There is almost a 2:1 ratio
in non-idiomatic with idiomatic and near
idiomatic translations. The large number of nonidiomatic translations reveals that translating
non-standard terminology from Indonesian to
English language poses numerous difficulties for
students, as they are not exposed to this kind of
vocabulary in their academic studies and do not
read these kinds of articles in English language
on their own. Students tend to read articles about
supernatural or mysticism themes in their source
language only.
Table 1. Types of Translations of 2nd Supernatural Article
13
2
0
0
1
Near
idiomatic
0
11
2
12
3
Non
idiomatic
5
5
16
6
14
7
3
0
4
0
1
1
6
0
0
4
8
1
3
0
6
1
8
1
4
0
3
1
15.6%
7
12
10
9
10
4
0
9
5
3
7
8
3
7
4
7
0
6
2
9
7
6
7
34.0%
4
3
8
5
8
13
17
3
13
15
7
2
14
8
14
5
17
4
15
5
11
9
10
50.4%
No.
Word(s)/Expressions
Idiomatic
1
2
3
4
5
Susuk Berlian Samber Lilin
Pada Usia Mendekati Kepala 4!
Beberapa kali mematut di kaca
wajahnya yang dulu muda, segar dan mulus
kini telah digerogoti beberapa keriput yang mengumpul di bawah
mata
ia sendiri merasa kurang nyaman
Duh, malunya!
Rini pernah mendengar, di negara-negara maju
Hanya saja biayanya selangit
sekali terapi biayanya Rp 2,5 juta
Rini bertemu lagi dengan seorang karibnya, Dina
Tapi melihat penampilan Dina yang masih begitu segar
Rini jadi terkagum-kagum
penampilan Dina tak kalah dengan gadis-gadis remaja
Cantik dan ranum
Karena penasaran, Rini lalu menarik Dina ke pojok
Dina dipaksa untuk membuka rahasia kecantikannya
selama ini ia jadi langganan Djeng Asih
seorang paranormal pakar kecantikan alternative
Cobalah susuk yang satu ini
khasiatnya sungguh dahsyat
celetuk
Penampilan begitu prima
wajahnya terlihat segar berseri-seri
benar-benar bekerja secara mistis
membuat aura yang keluar gemerlap mempesona
Hebatnya lagi, susuk ini tanpa pantangan
Bisa dipakai siapa saja, tak mengenal golongan dan agama
Total Types of Translations
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
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English
Edu Vol.11, No.1, January 2013: 56-66
Table 2. Types of Translations of 2nd Supernatural Article
No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
60
Word(s)/Expressions
Ilmu Gaib
pasangan
pengasihan
air seni
Kedahsyatan
paranormal
menyalurkan ajian pengasihan
pasangan yang dikehendaki
bila kebablasan
menimbulkan kegilaan seumur hidup
tidak akan mampu disembuhkan
orang yang kita tuju tidak curiga
Untuk menghilangkan bau pesing yang menyengat
mengandung alkohol atau soda dengan takaran cukup tinggi
pasangan yang hendak kita beri mantra pengasihan terlebih dahulu
dibuat pingsan
Dalam keadaan pingsan, air kencing bisa dengan mudah masuk ke
dalam mulutnya
bau dan rasa yang dihasilkan juga tidak akan terasa
Kalau orang yang hendak kita tuju
tentu dia akan menolaknya
Bahkan, dia bisa tidak percaya lagi
air kencing yang sudah diberi mantra itu juga bisa disemprotkan ke
dalam aura orang yang hendak kita beri pagar gaib
wadah
dilakukan ritual untuk menampakkan aura
Untuk hasilnya, jangan tanya
air kencing sanggup menjadikan pasangan tergila-gila
pasangannya
air kencing yang digunakan tidak sembarangan
manjur
berwarna kuning pekat
para ahli pengasihan
lebih manjur
media pengasihan
botol yang tidak mudah rusak
air kencing tetap terjaga keutuhannya
botol berisi air kencing ditanam
diberi tanda berupa nisan
kuburan manusia
gundukan tanah
air perasan bunga mawar, bunga melati serta bunga kantil
bacaan mantra khusus
Agar lebih afdol
orang pintar
diambil dan ditaruh di bawah bantal tempat tidur
pengasihan atau mengikat pasangan agar tidak selingkuh
Total Types of Translations
16
1
0
19
7
12
0
3
3
0
4
6
6
0
2
Near
idiomatic
0
10
4
2
8
5
2
4
3
12
3
4
4
1
7
Non
idiomatic
5
10
17
0
6
4
19
14
15
9
14
11
11
20
12
0
11
10
3
4
2
2
1
4
10
3
12
8
14
7
16
7
12
12
2
1
5
10
7
14
11
3
14
1
4
3
2
1
14
1
0
10
7
9
2
0
24.2%
0
2
10
12
5
6
3
1
8
3
3
9
4
7
1
4
7
2
2
8
3
13
2
25.1%
9
17
10
4
6
8
4
9
10
4
17
8
14
12
19
3
13
19
9
6
9
6
19
50.7%
Idiomatic
Translating Cultural Bound Elements in an Indonesian Supernatural Article into English Language (Andrew Thren)
In translating a supernatural or mysticism
advertisement or article into English language,
various guidelines should be followed. First,
write an attention-grabbing headline. Next, write
the strongest selling points first. Then, write in a
parallel sentence structure for bulleted items. In
addition, use language that emphasizes the
benefits in a way to make an emotional connection.
Relate directly to the prospective target s
imagination. Since benefits are the most important
part of an advertisement, you should translate
the source text with adjectives that best can
connect with the prospective audience. Another
important point is you should use concise and
descriptive language. Translate the copy (text)
with your potential customer in mind. Write
many adjectives and adverbs. Vary the sentence
structure using creative wording in the translation
to make the product more appealing to consumers.
By using descriptive language, you can paint a
picture of the product or service you are offering
in the targeted readers minds and make them
want to buy what you are selling. Besides that,
write in a way that connects directly with the
targeted audience. Don t use language that is too
sophisticated or too friendly for certain readers.
Specific jargon should be properly explained to
readers unfamiliar with specific terminology.
Afterwards, in deciding what language (formal,
informal, slang, etc.) to use, know who you are
translating for. Match the language you use with
the intended target readers. Is the tone more
serious or lighthearted? Next, translate the
testimonials in a language style that the intended
target can relate to. Furthermore, consider the
best way to emotionally manipulate the targeted
readers in the targeted language group by
translating the material in such an extent to have
the greatest effect without diverting too much
from the source text. After that, try to use
persuasive translated wording without being too
persuasive with consideration of the targeted
group. Translate the advertisement in such a way
that if you were the prospective target, you would
be tempted to buy the product or service. Then,
do not overuse exclamation marks or write more
than one for a particular point. Finally, check
spelling and punctuation carefully after translating
the advertisement. It should be free from
grammatical mistakes. Advertisements with typos
will not be taken serious by consumers. It will
reflect poorly on your translation ability and on
the product or service you are translating for.
CONCLUSION
Translation is an effort to convey a message
from one language to another without altering
the meaning of the message. In translating, many
different techniques can be used, depending on
the needs of the translator. To be a qualified
translator, one needs to master the source language
and target language, be knowledgeable about
both cultures, recognize culturally specific terms,
and be able to translate them in an understandable
way in the target language. Through this analysis,
it is hoped that lecturers can better gage their
students linguistic competence through the
target language translation. It is also hoped that
students will have a better insight of syntax in
English and be more able to convey their
competence through quality idiomatic translations.
REFERENCES
Baker, M. (1992). In Other Words: A Course
Book on Translation, London: Routledge.
Bassnett, S. (2008). Translation Studies (3rd ed.).
New York: Routledge.
Bermann, S. and Wood, M. (2005). Nation,
Ethics, and the Language of Translation.
New Jersey: Princeton University Press.
Cronin, M. (2006). Translation and Identity. New
York: Routledge.
Fawcett, P. (1997). Translation and Language.
UK: St. Jerome.
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Edu Vol.11, No.1, January 2013: 56-66
Hatim, B. and Munday J. (2004). Translation:
An Advanced Resource Book. Cornwall:
TJ International Ltd.
Munday, J. (2001). Introducing Translation
Studies: Theories and Applications (2nd
ed.). London: Routledge.
Simatupang, M.D.S. (1999). Pengantar Teori
Terjemahan. Jakarta: Direktorat Jenderal
Pendidikan Tinggi.
Venuti, L. (2008). The Translator s Invisibility:
A History of Translation. New York:
Routledge.
Suggested references for Indonesian mysticism
readings
Magazines
Liberty, Misteri, Tabir, Variasari, Mastika
62
Websites
www.rajapelet.com
www.ilmupelet.com
www.pasangsusuk.com
www.hantuhantu.com
www.primbon.com
www.manterapelet.com
www.indospiritual.com
http://www.kaskus.us/forumdisplay.php?f=23
http://terselubung.blog.com
http://hantuonline.info/majalah-hantu.aspx
http://www.djeng-asih.com/
http://peletratuasihan.indonetwork.co.id/
1524404/paket-ilmu-pelet.htm
http://jokowidayat.blogspot.com/
http://www.ramal-twoinsu.com/
Translating Cultural Bound Elements in an Indonesian Supernatural Article into English Language (Andrew Thren)
APPENDIX 1
Susuk Berlian Samber Lilin (1)
Masih Tetap Cantik dan Segar Pada Usia Mendekati Kepala 4! (2)
Ketika merayakan HUT ke-37 April silam,
Rini merasakan banyak perubahan pada dirinya.
Terutama, wajahnya. Beberapa kali mematut di kaca
(3), ia sadar kalau wajahnya yang dulu muda, segar
dan mulus (4) kini telah digerogoti beberapa keriput
yang mengumpul di bawah mata (5). Akhir-akhir
ini ia mencoba menyembunyikan garis keriput itu
dengan make up bedak tebal. Meski menolong, ia
sendiri merasa kurang nyaman (6). Sebab dengan
make up tebal, wajahnya jadi seperti topeng. Duh,
malunya! (7)
Rini pernah mendengar, di negara-negara
maju (8) seperti Singapura ada terapi laser untuk
menghilangkan keriput penuaan pada wajah
seseorang. Terakhir, ia mendengar ada sebuah salon
di Jakarta yang menawarkan layanan serupa. Hanya
saja biayanya selangit (9). Kalau nggak salah, sekali
terapi biayanya Rp 2,5 juta(10). Untuk bisa tampil
sempurna, saya paling tidak harus menjalani 4 5 kali
terapi. Wah, mahalnya, keluh Rini.
Sampai suatu ketika pada reuni SMA-nya Rini
bertemu lagi dengan seorang karibnya, Dina (11).
Tapi melihat penampilan Dina yang masih begitu
segar (12), Rini jadi terkagum-kagum (13).
Bayangkan, meski usianya nyaris kepala 4 tapi
penampilan Dina tak kalah dengan gadis-gadis
remaja (14). Cantik dan ranum (15). Karena
penasaran, Rini lalu menarik Dina ke pojok (16).
Di situ Dina dipaksa untuk membuka rahasia
kecantikannya (17). Ternyata Dina dengan terusterang mengungkapkan kalau selama ini ia jadi
langganan Djeng Asih (18), seorang paranormal
pakar kecantikan alternatif (19). Terapi yang
digunakan Dina agar terlihat tetap segar dan awet
muda adalah Susuk Berlian Samber Lilin. Cobalah
susuk yang satu ini (20), lain daripada yang lain,
khasiatnya sungguh dahsyat (21), celetuk (22) Dina.
Sejak itu Rini pun jadi pasien Djeng Asih.
Kira-kira 2 bulan kemudian ia mampu tampil lebih
pedhe di depan khalayak umum. Penampilan begitu
prima (23), wajahnya terlihat segar berseri-seri (24).
Ini karena susuk yang dipakai benar-benar bekerja
secara mistis (25), membuat aura yang keluar
gemerlap mempesona (26). Tak cuma itu, kerut-kerut
penuaan yang dulu menggantung di bawah matanya
juga lenyap dengan sendirinya. Hebatnya lagi, susuk
ini tanpa pantangan (27). Bisa dipakai siapa saja,
tak mengenal golongan dan agama (28), begitu kata
Rini.
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English
Edu Vol.11, No.1, January 2013: 56-66
APPENDIX 2
Susuk Berlian Samber Lilin (1)
Those Who Are Approaching 40(2) Can Still Look Young and Beautiful!
While celebrating her 37th birthday this past
April, Rini noticed many outward personal changes,
especially in her face. After looking at herself in the
mirror several times (3), she realized that her once
youthful and flawless complexion (4) now had been
damaged by a few wrinkles underneath her eyes (5).
Recently she tried to cover the wrinkles by applying
thick powder. Even though it helped, she didn t feel
confident (6), because the thick make-up made it look
like she was wearing a mask. It made her feel rather
embarrassed (7).
Rini had heard that in industrialized nations
(8), like Singapore, a person with age wrinkles could
undergo laser therapy. Most recently she heard of a
clinic in Jakarta that provides a similar kind of service.
But the only problem is that the prices are sky high
(9). If I m not mistaken, I will have to dish out Rp.
2.5 million just to go through this treatment once
(10). To perfect my complexion I will have to do the
therapy 4 or 5 times. I will waste an awful lot of
money, sighed Rini.
This all changed when she went to a high
school reunion and was reunited with one of her old
chums, Dina (11). Rini was surprised (13) when she
saw that Dina hadn t aged a day (12). Even though
64
Dina was reaching 40, she looked just like a teenager
(14). She had a glowing and youthful appearance
(15). Anxious to find out her secret, Rini pulled Dina
into a corner (16). Rini forced Dina to reveal her
beauty secrets (17). Dina admitted that she has been
a client of Djeng Asih (18), a paranormal expert in
alternative beauty therapy (19). To keep Dina
looking young and fancy free, she used Susuk Berlian
Samber Lilin therapy. Try this susuk (charm needles)
(20). It is different from anything you have ever seen
before. It works wonders! (21) burst Dina excitedly
(22).
Since then, Rini has also become a client of
Djeng Asih. In only about 2 months she was able to
regain her confidence in the public eye. The susuk
worked miracles for her (23). Her face was
beautifully radiant (24). That is because the susuk
she used has mystical powers (25) and can make
your aura emit a radiant glow (26). Besides that,
the wrinkles under her eyes miraculously disappeared.
The best thing about it is that this susuk doesn t have
any restrictions in usage (27). It can be used by
anyone, regardless of social status or religion (28),
said Rini.
Translating Cultural Bound Elements in an Indonesian Supernatural Article into English Language (Andrew Thren)
APPENDIX 3
Mengendalikan Pasangan Lewat Ilmu Gaib (1)
Mengendalikan pasangan (2) bisa dilakukan
dengan pengasihan (3) melalui air seni (4).
Kedahsyatan (5) teknik seperti ini sudah diakui
banyak orang. Terhitung, beberapa paranormal (6)
di berbagai daerah sering menggunakan sarana air
kencing untuk menyalurkan ajian pengasihan (7)
bagi pasangan yang dikehendaki (8). Namun, dibalik
itu, pengasihan melalui air kencing bisa membahayakan.
Sebab, bila kebablasan (9), justru akan menimbulkan
kegilaan seumur hidup (10) dan dapat dipastikan
tidak akan mampu disembuhkan (11).
Caranya cukup unik. Air kencing yang hendak
dijadikan sarana penyaluran ajian pengasihan itu
dicampur dengan minuman atau makanan. Seyogyanya,
makanan atau minuman yang akan disuguhkan adalah
makanan dan minuman yang berwarna kuning.
Tujuannya, agar orang yang kita tuju tidak curiga
(12). Untuk menghilangkan bau pesing yang
menyengat (13), bisa dengan menambahkan aroma
makanan atau minuman.
Karenanya, lebih baik jika minuman yang
disodorkan berasal dari jenis minuman yang
mengandung alkohol atau soda dengan takaran
cukup tinggi (14). Kalau masih tetap kelihatan atau
tercium baunya, pasangan yang hendak kita beri
mantra pengasihan terlebih dahulu dibuat pingsan
(15). Dalam keadaan pingsan, air kencing bisa
dengan mudah masuk ke dalam mulutnya (16).
Air kencing yang dipakai juga tidak terlalu
banyak. Cukup hanya dengan beberapa tetes. Selain
warnanya tidak menimbulkan curiga, bau dan rasa
yang dihasilkan juga tidak akan terasa (17). Kalau
orang yang hendak kita tuju (18) mengetahui air
minum yang disuguhkan kepadanya dicampuri air
kencing, tentu dia akan menolaknya (19). Bahkan,
dia bisa tidak percaya lagi (20), yang akibatnya akan
muncul kecurigaan berkepanjangan.
Selain dicampurkan ke dalam minuman, air
kencing yang sudah diberi mantra itu juga bisa
disemprotkan ke dalam aura orang yang hendak kita
beri pagar gaib (21). Caranya, air kencing itu ditaruh
di suatu wadah (22). Biasanya berbentuk mangkok.
Selanjutnya, dilakukan ritual untuk menampakkan
aura (23). Setelah aura orang tersebut tampak, air
kencing diteteskan ke dalam auranya sebanyak tiga
kali. Untuk hasilnya, jangan tanya (24). Meski bau
dan rasanya tidak enak, air kencing sanggup
menjadikan pasangan tergila-gila (25). Bahkan, dia
rela berkorban segalanya untuk pasangannya (26).
Namun, air kencing yang digunakan tidak
sembarangan (27). Agar lebih manjur (28), sebaiknya
air kencing yang digunakan adalah air kencing orang
yang hendak kencing. Untuk mendapatkan air
kencing yang bagus, hendaknya diambil pada saat
bangun tidur. Warna air kencing saat orang baru
bangun dari tidurnya biasanya berwarna kuning
pekat (29). Menurut para ahli pengasihan (30),
warna air kencing yang kuning pekat akan lebih
manjur (31) jika digunakan untuk media pengasihan
(32). Air kencing ditaruh dalam botol yang tidak
mudah rusak (33) agar air kencing tetap terjaga
keutuhannya (34).
Setelah itu, botol berisi air kencing ditanam
(35) di dalam tanah selama tujuh hari tujuh malam
dengan cara diberi tanda berupa nisan (36), persis
seperti kuburan manusia (37). Pada setiap malamnya,
di atas gundukan tanah (38) yang di dalamnya
terdapat air kencing disiram dengan air perasan
bunga mawar, bunga melati serta bunga kantil (39).
Dalam setiap menyiramkan air kembang itu juga
disertai dengan bacaan mantra khusus (40). Agar
lebih afdol (41), sebaiknya minta bantuan orang
pintar (42) untuk melaksanakan ritualnya. Setelah
tujuh hari tujuh malam, botol berisi air kencing
diambil dan ditaruh di bawah bantal tempat tidur
(43) selama satu malam. Selanjutnya, air kencing itu
bisa digunakan untuk pengasihan atau mengikat
pasangan agar tidak selingkuh (44). Agar lebih
mudah diminum, air kencing itu bisa dicampur
dengan minuman atau makanan.
65
English
Edu Vol.11, No.1, January 2013: 56-66
APPENDIX 4
Control Your Partner or Love Interest through Magic (1)
Controlling your partner or love interest (2)
can be done using urine (4) in a love spell (3). Many
people know about the great effectiveness (5) of this
technique. Included among them, several paranormals
(6) in various locations often use urinein love spells
(7) to help people easily get their desired mates (8).
However, on the downside, using urine in a love
potion can also be dangerous, because if used in a
large quantity (9) it can cause lifelong incurable
insanity (10 & 11).
The love potion is made in a unique way. The
urine that is going to be used in the love spell is mixed
with food or a beverage. The food or drink that will
be given to the love interest will obviously be yellow.
The reason for doing this is to avoid suspicion on
the part of your love interest (12). To neutralize the
stench of the urine (13), you can mix it with the aroma
of food or drinks.
It is better if the drink given to your love
interest contains a high alcohol or soda content (14).
If you can still see or smell the urine, a spell can be
put over your love interest to make him/her pass out
(15). While unconscious, the urine can easily be
dripped in the person s mouth (16).
You shouldn t use too much urine. A few drops
should be enough. That way, the color, smell, and
taste shouldn t be noticeable (17). If the person you
like (18) knows that the beverage served is mixed
with urine, of course he/she will not drink it (19).
Furthermore, the person will be suspicious for a long
time and unable to trust you anymore (20).
Besides being mixed in drinks, urine that has
been given a spell also can be sprayed within the
aura of the person you want to attract by making a
magical fence around him/her (21). The way to do
this is by pouring the urine into a bowl-shaped
66
container (22). Then a ritual needs to be performed
to make his/her aura appear (23). After his/her aura
appears, three drops of urine are dripped within his/
her aura. The results speak for themselves (24). Even
though it doesn t taste or smell very good, the urine
is able to make your love interest fall crazily in love
with you (25). Your love interest will even be willing
to sacrifice everything he/she possesses to you (26).
However, you cannot use just any kind of
urine (27). To get the most effective results, it is best
to use urine when you want to urinate. To get the
most effective (28) urine, you should use the urine
when you wake up first thing in the morning. Usually
when a person wakes up in the morning, the urine is
a concentrated yellow color (29). According to love
potion experts (30), urine that is a dark yellow color
will be most effective (31) when used as a media for
a love spell (32). The urine should be poured and
kept in an unbreakable sturdy bottle (33) to maintain
its integrity and potency (34).
After that, you should bury the bottle filled
with urine under ground (35) for seven days and
seven nights by putting a gravestone on top of it (36),
just like in a cemetery (37). Every night rose, jasmine,
and magnolia water (39) is poured on the mound
(38) with the bottle buried under it. Every time the
flower water is poured on the mound, a special
mantra needs to be read (40). To make the ritual
more pure (41), it is better to have a paranormal
(42) carry it out. After seven days and seven nights,
you should dig up the bottle with urine inside and
place it under your pillow (43) while sleeping for
one night. After that, you can use the urine as a love
potion or to keep your partner from going astray
(44). To make it tolerable to drink, you can mix the
urine with food or a drink.
Edu Vol.11, No.1, January 2013: 56-66
TRANSLATING CULTURAL BOUND ELEMENTS IN AN INDONESIAN
SUPERNATURAL ARTICLE INTO ENGLISH LANGUAGE
Andrew Thren
Faculty of Language and Literature
Satya Wacana Christian University
Salatiga
INTRODUCTION
Translating supernatural articles can pose
numerous problems as a translator has to
decipher how to render culture-bound elements
from the source text into the target language. A
translator needs to transfer the written message
of the source text with the same message into
the target foreign language. Nonetheless, with
culture-bound words this is often very
challenging. Some words or concepts in the
source language may be too deeply rooted, so
that it makes translating the idea in the target
language rather taxing. Certain ideas may be too
56
culture-specific for readers of the target language
to comprehend. Besides thinking about the
culture-bound elements, a translator also needs
to consider the prepositional content, subjectverb agreement, pronoun usage, vocabulary,
parts of speech, and grammatical cohesion,
understand the correct word choice, formal
language related to the article, subtle nuances,
and double entendres present in a supernatural
article. Supernatural articles are particularly
different from other kinds of texts in that the
translator must consider the type of text it is and
who the targeted readers are to know best how
to translate the text.
Translating Cultural Bound Elements in an Indonesian Supernatural Article into English Language (Andrew Thren)
A translator has the task of accurately
transferring what is said in one language into
another. In translating a supernatural article, a
translator needs to be competent in understanding
the cultural concepts present in the source
language and be able to relay those ideas
accurately in the foreign language. A translator
should be conscious of idiosyncrasies in the
target language (TL) and be able to successfully
convey ideas and source language specific words
from supernatural articles into the target
language through various methods. Venuti (1995,
p.1, as cited in Munday, p.144) uses the term
invisibility to describe the translator s situation
and activity in contemporary Anglo-American
culture. Venuti sees this invisibility as typically
being produced by the way translators themselves
tend to translate fluently into English, to produce
an idiomatic and readable translated text, thus
creating an illusion of transparency . This illusion
of transparency is beneficial in the target
language, as it lets the readers think they are
reading the original text and not a translated text,
which allows them to read it more fluently
without linguistic or stylistic peculiarities.
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Larson (1984), as cited in Simatupang
(1999, p.39) divides translation into meaningbased translation and form-based translation. A
literal translation can be categorized as a formbased translation. Translation is generally
categorized into seven main categories, starting
with a very literal translation, literal translation,
modified literal translation, inconsistent mixture
translation, near idiomatic translation, idiomatic
translation, and unduly free translation (Larson,
1984, p.17, as cited in Simatupang, 1999).
When translating from Indonesian to
English, various kinds of translation strategies
can be used like modulation, equivalence, and
adaptation. Modulation is a variation of the form
of the message, obtained by a change in
perspective. With modulation, the translator
changes the point of view of the message without
changing the meaning to make the sentence more
natural sounding in the target language. For
example, Il est facile de demontrer can be
translated as It is not difficult to show . However,
this would be more natural in English to write
in a positive way It is easy to show (Hatim
and Munday, 2004, p.150). The same applies in
translating from Indonesian language to English.
It is more natural to translate tidak gampang
as easy instead of not difficult .
The equivalence technique is used to
translate idioms when two languages refer to the
same situation in very different ways. Hatim and
Munday (2004, p.150) state that the equivalence
technique is used if the same situation can be
rendered by two texts using completely different
styles and structural methods. An example of
equivalence is when translating meong to
meow or nguik to squeak or kukurukuk
to cock-a-doodle-doo . Larson (1989, p.22)
gives an example of an idiom in Indonesian
language. Panjang tangan is a term for someone
who likes to steal. It cannot be translated literally
into long hand or long arms in English
because it will convey a meaning that is quite
different from the original idea.
The adaptation technique is a unique type
of situational equivalence, as this technique is
used when the type of situation being referred
to in the SL text is foreign in the TL culture. In a
situation like this, the translator has to create an
equivalent situation. Fawcett (1997) states that
equivalence takes place when the receiving
culture has little or no experience that would
allow it to understand a close translation. In an
instance where a situation like this may occur, it
is best to adapt it to the receiving culture.
Baker (1992, p.26-42) also has several
translation techniques that can be applied such
as translation by a more general word (for non
equivalence in propositional meaning between
that word and what it refers to or describes in a
real or imaginary world), translation by a more
57
English
Edu Vol.11, No.1, January 2013: 56-66
neutral or less expressive word (for dealing with
sensitive issues, such as politics, religion, sex,
etc. to avoid a wrong expressive meaning in the
translation), translation by cultural substitution
(involves replacing a culture-specific expression
with a target-language expression which does
not have the same propositional meaning but is
likely to have a similar impact on the target
reader), translation using a loan word or loan
word plus explanation (deals with culturespecific items, modern concepts, and buzzwords.
An explanation is given that follows loan words
when the word is repeated several times in the
text, so that the reader can understand it and is
not distracted by further lengthy explanations),
translation by paraphrase using a related word
(used when the concept expressed by the source
item is lexicalized in the target language in a
different form. It is used when the word in the
source text is significantly higher or unnatural
than it would be in the target language),
translation by paraphrase using unrelated words
(used if the source text contains an expression
that is not lexicalized in the target language.
Unrelated words can be used to paraphrase by
modifying a superordinate or unpack the
meaning of the words you want to paraphrase),
and translation by omission (used if the meaning
conveyed by a particular item or expression is
not vital enough to the text. The translator can
simply omit translating the word or expression).
Therefore, these and many other different
techniques can be used by a translator when
translating a supernatural article from Indonesian
to English, depending upon the need of the
translator to produce the most idiomatic sounding
translation.
THE STUDY
In this study I analyzed individual
university university student translations of two
different supernatural articles from Indonesian
to English language. The first article is an
advertisement and the second article is an
58
informational article. I chose 28 words and
expressions from the first article and 44 words
and expressions from the second article to be
analyzed. The words/expressions analyzed are
highlighted in italics and numbered in parentheses.
The Indonesian supernatural complete texts are
in Appendix 1 and Appendix 3 with the idiomatic
translated supernatural texts in Appendix 2 and
Appendix 4. The first article analyzed in
Appendix 1 was Susuk Berlian Samber Lilin
based on the individual translations of 18 students
(3 students were absent). The second article
analyzed in Appendix 3 was Mengendalikan
Pasangan Lewat Ilmu Gaib based on the
individual translations of 21 students (all students
were present). The results of the student
translations are in Table 1 and Table 2 divided
into idiomatic, near idiomatic, and non idiomatic
classifications. The types of translation errors in
the tables are important as they reveal to what
extent the students are able to fathom the subtle
nuances in translating culturally-specific terms
from Indonesian to English language.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
The results of the study can be seen in
Table 1 and Table 2. On one side, translating
these kinds of articles from Indonesian to English
is enjoyable for students. However, they often
have difficulties in deciding how to properly
translate magic related or culturally-specific
words and concepts into English. In many
aspects, numerous difficulties arise.
From the 28 expressions chosen from the
supernatural article in Table 1, students were able
to make 78 or 15.6 percent overall idiomatic
translations. Idiomatic translations are those
which can be accepted as being proper translations
in the receptor text. From the same expressions,
students were able to do 170 or 34 percent near
idiomatic translations. Near idiomatic translations
are those in which the translations are close
enough to being idiomatic but have minor errors
in word choice. From these expressions, there
Translating Cultural Bound Elements in an Indonesian Supernatural Article into English Language (Andrew Thren)
was a total of 252 or 50.4 percent non-idiomatic
translations. Non-idiomatic translations are those
which have major mistakes in translations, so
that it renders them unacceptable in the receptor
text. The large number of non-idiomatic translations
reveals that translating non-standard terminology
from Indonesian to English language poses
numerous difficulties for students, as they are
not exposed to this kind of vocabulary in their
academic studies and do not read these kinds of
articles in English language on their own. Students
tend to read articles about supernatural or
mysticism themes in their source language only.
From the 44 expressions chosen from the
supernatural article in Table 2, students were able
to make 224or 24.2 percent overall idiomatic
translations. From the same expressions, students
were able to do 232 or 25.1 percent near
idiomatic translations. From these expressions,
there was a total of 468or 50.7 percent nonidiomatic translations. There is almost a 2:1 ratio
in non-idiomatic with idiomatic and near
idiomatic translations. The large number of nonidiomatic translations reveals that translating
non-standard terminology from Indonesian to
English language poses numerous difficulties for
students, as they are not exposed to this kind of
vocabulary in their academic studies and do not
read these kinds of articles in English language
on their own. Students tend to read articles about
supernatural or mysticism themes in their source
language only.
Table 1. Types of Translations of 2nd Supernatural Article
13
2
0
0
1
Near
idiomatic
0
11
2
12
3
Non
idiomatic
5
5
16
6
14
7
3
0
4
0
1
1
6
0
0
4
8
1
3
0
6
1
8
1
4
0
3
1
15.6%
7
12
10
9
10
4
0
9
5
3
7
8
3
7
4
7
0
6
2
9
7
6
7
34.0%
4
3
8
5
8
13
17
3
13
15
7
2
14
8
14
5
17
4
15
5
11
9
10
50.4%
No.
Word(s)/Expressions
Idiomatic
1
2
3
4
5
Susuk Berlian Samber Lilin
Pada Usia Mendekati Kepala 4!
Beberapa kali mematut di kaca
wajahnya yang dulu muda, segar dan mulus
kini telah digerogoti beberapa keriput yang mengumpul di bawah
mata
ia sendiri merasa kurang nyaman
Duh, malunya!
Rini pernah mendengar, di negara-negara maju
Hanya saja biayanya selangit
sekali terapi biayanya Rp 2,5 juta
Rini bertemu lagi dengan seorang karibnya, Dina
Tapi melihat penampilan Dina yang masih begitu segar
Rini jadi terkagum-kagum
penampilan Dina tak kalah dengan gadis-gadis remaja
Cantik dan ranum
Karena penasaran, Rini lalu menarik Dina ke pojok
Dina dipaksa untuk membuka rahasia kecantikannya
selama ini ia jadi langganan Djeng Asih
seorang paranormal pakar kecantikan alternative
Cobalah susuk yang satu ini
khasiatnya sungguh dahsyat
celetuk
Penampilan begitu prima
wajahnya terlihat segar berseri-seri
benar-benar bekerja secara mistis
membuat aura yang keluar gemerlap mempesona
Hebatnya lagi, susuk ini tanpa pantangan
Bisa dipakai siapa saja, tak mengenal golongan dan agama
Total Types of Translations
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
59
English
Edu Vol.11, No.1, January 2013: 56-66
Table 2. Types of Translations of 2nd Supernatural Article
No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
60
Word(s)/Expressions
Ilmu Gaib
pasangan
pengasihan
air seni
Kedahsyatan
paranormal
menyalurkan ajian pengasihan
pasangan yang dikehendaki
bila kebablasan
menimbulkan kegilaan seumur hidup
tidak akan mampu disembuhkan
orang yang kita tuju tidak curiga
Untuk menghilangkan bau pesing yang menyengat
mengandung alkohol atau soda dengan takaran cukup tinggi
pasangan yang hendak kita beri mantra pengasihan terlebih dahulu
dibuat pingsan
Dalam keadaan pingsan, air kencing bisa dengan mudah masuk ke
dalam mulutnya
bau dan rasa yang dihasilkan juga tidak akan terasa
Kalau orang yang hendak kita tuju
tentu dia akan menolaknya
Bahkan, dia bisa tidak percaya lagi
air kencing yang sudah diberi mantra itu juga bisa disemprotkan ke
dalam aura orang yang hendak kita beri pagar gaib
wadah
dilakukan ritual untuk menampakkan aura
Untuk hasilnya, jangan tanya
air kencing sanggup menjadikan pasangan tergila-gila
pasangannya
air kencing yang digunakan tidak sembarangan
manjur
berwarna kuning pekat
para ahli pengasihan
lebih manjur
media pengasihan
botol yang tidak mudah rusak
air kencing tetap terjaga keutuhannya
botol berisi air kencing ditanam
diberi tanda berupa nisan
kuburan manusia
gundukan tanah
air perasan bunga mawar, bunga melati serta bunga kantil
bacaan mantra khusus
Agar lebih afdol
orang pintar
diambil dan ditaruh di bawah bantal tempat tidur
pengasihan atau mengikat pasangan agar tidak selingkuh
Total Types of Translations
16
1
0
19
7
12
0
3
3
0
4
6
6
0
2
Near
idiomatic
0
10
4
2
8
5
2
4
3
12
3
4
4
1
7
Non
idiomatic
5
10
17
0
6
4
19
14
15
9
14
11
11
20
12
0
11
10
3
4
2
2
1
4
10
3
12
8
14
7
16
7
12
12
2
1
5
10
7
14
11
3
14
1
4
3
2
1
14
1
0
10
7
9
2
0
24.2%
0
2
10
12
5
6
3
1
8
3
3
9
4
7
1
4
7
2
2
8
3
13
2
25.1%
9
17
10
4
6
8
4
9
10
4
17
8
14
12
19
3
13
19
9
6
9
6
19
50.7%
Idiomatic
Translating Cultural Bound Elements in an Indonesian Supernatural Article into English Language (Andrew Thren)
In translating a supernatural or mysticism
advertisement or article into English language,
various guidelines should be followed. First,
write an attention-grabbing headline. Next, write
the strongest selling points first. Then, write in a
parallel sentence structure for bulleted items. In
addition, use language that emphasizes the
benefits in a way to make an emotional connection.
Relate directly to the prospective target s
imagination. Since benefits are the most important
part of an advertisement, you should translate
the source text with adjectives that best can
connect with the prospective audience. Another
important point is you should use concise and
descriptive language. Translate the copy (text)
with your potential customer in mind. Write
many adjectives and adverbs. Vary the sentence
structure using creative wording in the translation
to make the product more appealing to consumers.
By using descriptive language, you can paint a
picture of the product or service you are offering
in the targeted readers minds and make them
want to buy what you are selling. Besides that,
write in a way that connects directly with the
targeted audience. Don t use language that is too
sophisticated or too friendly for certain readers.
Specific jargon should be properly explained to
readers unfamiliar with specific terminology.
Afterwards, in deciding what language (formal,
informal, slang, etc.) to use, know who you are
translating for. Match the language you use with
the intended target readers. Is the tone more
serious or lighthearted? Next, translate the
testimonials in a language style that the intended
target can relate to. Furthermore, consider the
best way to emotionally manipulate the targeted
readers in the targeted language group by
translating the material in such an extent to have
the greatest effect without diverting too much
from the source text. After that, try to use
persuasive translated wording without being too
persuasive with consideration of the targeted
group. Translate the advertisement in such a way
that if you were the prospective target, you would
be tempted to buy the product or service. Then,
do not overuse exclamation marks or write more
than one for a particular point. Finally, check
spelling and punctuation carefully after translating
the advertisement. It should be free from
grammatical mistakes. Advertisements with typos
will not be taken serious by consumers. It will
reflect poorly on your translation ability and on
the product or service you are translating for.
CONCLUSION
Translation is an effort to convey a message
from one language to another without altering
the meaning of the message. In translating, many
different techniques can be used, depending on
the needs of the translator. To be a qualified
translator, one needs to master the source language
and target language, be knowledgeable about
both cultures, recognize culturally specific terms,
and be able to translate them in an understandable
way in the target language. Through this analysis,
it is hoped that lecturers can better gage their
students linguistic competence through the
target language translation. It is also hoped that
students will have a better insight of syntax in
English and be more able to convey their
competence through quality idiomatic translations.
REFERENCES
Baker, M. (1992). In Other Words: A Course
Book on Translation, London: Routledge.
Bassnett, S. (2008). Translation Studies (3rd ed.).
New York: Routledge.
Bermann, S. and Wood, M. (2005). Nation,
Ethics, and the Language of Translation.
New Jersey: Princeton University Press.
Cronin, M. (2006). Translation and Identity. New
York: Routledge.
Fawcett, P. (1997). Translation and Language.
UK: St. Jerome.
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Hatim, B. and Munday J. (2004). Translation:
An Advanced Resource Book. Cornwall:
TJ International Ltd.
Munday, J. (2001). Introducing Translation
Studies: Theories and Applications (2nd
ed.). London: Routledge.
Simatupang, M.D.S. (1999). Pengantar Teori
Terjemahan. Jakarta: Direktorat Jenderal
Pendidikan Tinggi.
Venuti, L. (2008). The Translator s Invisibility:
A History of Translation. New York:
Routledge.
Suggested references for Indonesian mysticism
readings
Magazines
Liberty, Misteri, Tabir, Variasari, Mastika
62
Websites
www.rajapelet.com
www.ilmupelet.com
www.pasangsusuk.com
www.hantuhantu.com
www.primbon.com
www.manterapelet.com
www.indospiritual.com
http://www.kaskus.us/forumdisplay.php?f=23
http://terselubung.blog.com
http://hantuonline.info/majalah-hantu.aspx
http://www.djeng-asih.com/
http://peletratuasihan.indonetwork.co.id/
1524404/paket-ilmu-pelet.htm
http://jokowidayat.blogspot.com/
http://www.ramal-twoinsu.com/
Translating Cultural Bound Elements in an Indonesian Supernatural Article into English Language (Andrew Thren)
APPENDIX 1
Susuk Berlian Samber Lilin (1)
Masih Tetap Cantik dan Segar Pada Usia Mendekati Kepala 4! (2)
Ketika merayakan HUT ke-37 April silam,
Rini merasakan banyak perubahan pada dirinya.
Terutama, wajahnya. Beberapa kali mematut di kaca
(3), ia sadar kalau wajahnya yang dulu muda, segar
dan mulus (4) kini telah digerogoti beberapa keriput
yang mengumpul di bawah mata (5). Akhir-akhir
ini ia mencoba menyembunyikan garis keriput itu
dengan make up bedak tebal. Meski menolong, ia
sendiri merasa kurang nyaman (6). Sebab dengan
make up tebal, wajahnya jadi seperti topeng. Duh,
malunya! (7)
Rini pernah mendengar, di negara-negara
maju (8) seperti Singapura ada terapi laser untuk
menghilangkan keriput penuaan pada wajah
seseorang. Terakhir, ia mendengar ada sebuah salon
di Jakarta yang menawarkan layanan serupa. Hanya
saja biayanya selangit (9). Kalau nggak salah, sekali
terapi biayanya Rp 2,5 juta(10). Untuk bisa tampil
sempurna, saya paling tidak harus menjalani 4 5 kali
terapi. Wah, mahalnya, keluh Rini.
Sampai suatu ketika pada reuni SMA-nya Rini
bertemu lagi dengan seorang karibnya, Dina (11).
Tapi melihat penampilan Dina yang masih begitu
segar (12), Rini jadi terkagum-kagum (13).
Bayangkan, meski usianya nyaris kepala 4 tapi
penampilan Dina tak kalah dengan gadis-gadis
remaja (14). Cantik dan ranum (15). Karena
penasaran, Rini lalu menarik Dina ke pojok (16).
Di situ Dina dipaksa untuk membuka rahasia
kecantikannya (17). Ternyata Dina dengan terusterang mengungkapkan kalau selama ini ia jadi
langganan Djeng Asih (18), seorang paranormal
pakar kecantikan alternatif (19). Terapi yang
digunakan Dina agar terlihat tetap segar dan awet
muda adalah Susuk Berlian Samber Lilin. Cobalah
susuk yang satu ini (20), lain daripada yang lain,
khasiatnya sungguh dahsyat (21), celetuk (22) Dina.
Sejak itu Rini pun jadi pasien Djeng Asih.
Kira-kira 2 bulan kemudian ia mampu tampil lebih
pedhe di depan khalayak umum. Penampilan begitu
prima (23), wajahnya terlihat segar berseri-seri (24).
Ini karena susuk yang dipakai benar-benar bekerja
secara mistis (25), membuat aura yang keluar
gemerlap mempesona (26). Tak cuma itu, kerut-kerut
penuaan yang dulu menggantung di bawah matanya
juga lenyap dengan sendirinya. Hebatnya lagi, susuk
ini tanpa pantangan (27). Bisa dipakai siapa saja,
tak mengenal golongan dan agama (28), begitu kata
Rini.
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English
Edu Vol.11, No.1, January 2013: 56-66
APPENDIX 2
Susuk Berlian Samber Lilin (1)
Those Who Are Approaching 40(2) Can Still Look Young and Beautiful!
While celebrating her 37th birthday this past
April, Rini noticed many outward personal changes,
especially in her face. After looking at herself in the
mirror several times (3), she realized that her once
youthful and flawless complexion (4) now had been
damaged by a few wrinkles underneath her eyes (5).
Recently she tried to cover the wrinkles by applying
thick powder. Even though it helped, she didn t feel
confident (6), because the thick make-up made it look
like she was wearing a mask. It made her feel rather
embarrassed (7).
Rini had heard that in industrialized nations
(8), like Singapore, a person with age wrinkles could
undergo laser therapy. Most recently she heard of a
clinic in Jakarta that provides a similar kind of service.
But the only problem is that the prices are sky high
(9). If I m not mistaken, I will have to dish out Rp.
2.5 million just to go through this treatment once
(10). To perfect my complexion I will have to do the
therapy 4 or 5 times. I will waste an awful lot of
money, sighed Rini.
This all changed when she went to a high
school reunion and was reunited with one of her old
chums, Dina (11). Rini was surprised (13) when she
saw that Dina hadn t aged a day (12). Even though
64
Dina was reaching 40, she looked just like a teenager
(14). She had a glowing and youthful appearance
(15). Anxious to find out her secret, Rini pulled Dina
into a corner (16). Rini forced Dina to reveal her
beauty secrets (17). Dina admitted that she has been
a client of Djeng Asih (18), a paranormal expert in
alternative beauty therapy (19). To keep Dina
looking young and fancy free, she used Susuk Berlian
Samber Lilin therapy. Try this susuk (charm needles)
(20). It is different from anything you have ever seen
before. It works wonders! (21) burst Dina excitedly
(22).
Since then, Rini has also become a client of
Djeng Asih. In only about 2 months she was able to
regain her confidence in the public eye. The susuk
worked miracles for her (23). Her face was
beautifully radiant (24). That is because the susuk
she used has mystical powers (25) and can make
your aura emit a radiant glow (26). Besides that,
the wrinkles under her eyes miraculously disappeared.
The best thing about it is that this susuk doesn t have
any restrictions in usage (27). It can be used by
anyone, regardless of social status or religion (28),
said Rini.
Translating Cultural Bound Elements in an Indonesian Supernatural Article into English Language (Andrew Thren)
APPENDIX 3
Mengendalikan Pasangan Lewat Ilmu Gaib (1)
Mengendalikan pasangan (2) bisa dilakukan
dengan pengasihan (3) melalui air seni (4).
Kedahsyatan (5) teknik seperti ini sudah diakui
banyak orang. Terhitung, beberapa paranormal (6)
di berbagai daerah sering menggunakan sarana air
kencing untuk menyalurkan ajian pengasihan (7)
bagi pasangan yang dikehendaki (8). Namun, dibalik
itu, pengasihan melalui air kencing bisa membahayakan.
Sebab, bila kebablasan (9), justru akan menimbulkan
kegilaan seumur hidup (10) dan dapat dipastikan
tidak akan mampu disembuhkan (11).
Caranya cukup unik. Air kencing yang hendak
dijadikan sarana penyaluran ajian pengasihan itu
dicampur dengan minuman atau makanan. Seyogyanya,
makanan atau minuman yang akan disuguhkan adalah
makanan dan minuman yang berwarna kuning.
Tujuannya, agar orang yang kita tuju tidak curiga
(12). Untuk menghilangkan bau pesing yang
menyengat (13), bisa dengan menambahkan aroma
makanan atau minuman.
Karenanya, lebih baik jika minuman yang
disodorkan berasal dari jenis minuman yang
mengandung alkohol atau soda dengan takaran
cukup tinggi (14). Kalau masih tetap kelihatan atau
tercium baunya, pasangan yang hendak kita beri
mantra pengasihan terlebih dahulu dibuat pingsan
(15). Dalam keadaan pingsan, air kencing bisa
dengan mudah masuk ke dalam mulutnya (16).
Air kencing yang dipakai juga tidak terlalu
banyak. Cukup hanya dengan beberapa tetes. Selain
warnanya tidak menimbulkan curiga, bau dan rasa
yang dihasilkan juga tidak akan terasa (17). Kalau
orang yang hendak kita tuju (18) mengetahui air
minum yang disuguhkan kepadanya dicampuri air
kencing, tentu dia akan menolaknya (19). Bahkan,
dia bisa tidak percaya lagi (20), yang akibatnya akan
muncul kecurigaan berkepanjangan.
Selain dicampurkan ke dalam minuman, air
kencing yang sudah diberi mantra itu juga bisa
disemprotkan ke dalam aura orang yang hendak kita
beri pagar gaib (21). Caranya, air kencing itu ditaruh
di suatu wadah (22). Biasanya berbentuk mangkok.
Selanjutnya, dilakukan ritual untuk menampakkan
aura (23). Setelah aura orang tersebut tampak, air
kencing diteteskan ke dalam auranya sebanyak tiga
kali. Untuk hasilnya, jangan tanya (24). Meski bau
dan rasanya tidak enak, air kencing sanggup
menjadikan pasangan tergila-gila (25). Bahkan, dia
rela berkorban segalanya untuk pasangannya (26).
Namun, air kencing yang digunakan tidak
sembarangan (27). Agar lebih manjur (28), sebaiknya
air kencing yang digunakan adalah air kencing orang
yang hendak kencing. Untuk mendapatkan air
kencing yang bagus, hendaknya diambil pada saat
bangun tidur. Warna air kencing saat orang baru
bangun dari tidurnya biasanya berwarna kuning
pekat (29). Menurut para ahli pengasihan (30),
warna air kencing yang kuning pekat akan lebih
manjur (31) jika digunakan untuk media pengasihan
(32). Air kencing ditaruh dalam botol yang tidak
mudah rusak (33) agar air kencing tetap terjaga
keutuhannya (34).
Setelah itu, botol berisi air kencing ditanam
(35) di dalam tanah selama tujuh hari tujuh malam
dengan cara diberi tanda berupa nisan (36), persis
seperti kuburan manusia (37). Pada setiap malamnya,
di atas gundukan tanah (38) yang di dalamnya
terdapat air kencing disiram dengan air perasan
bunga mawar, bunga melati serta bunga kantil (39).
Dalam setiap menyiramkan air kembang itu juga
disertai dengan bacaan mantra khusus (40). Agar
lebih afdol (41), sebaiknya minta bantuan orang
pintar (42) untuk melaksanakan ritualnya. Setelah
tujuh hari tujuh malam, botol berisi air kencing
diambil dan ditaruh di bawah bantal tempat tidur
(43) selama satu malam. Selanjutnya, air kencing itu
bisa digunakan untuk pengasihan atau mengikat
pasangan agar tidak selingkuh (44). Agar lebih
mudah diminum, air kencing itu bisa dicampur
dengan minuman atau makanan.
65
English
Edu Vol.11, No.1, January 2013: 56-66
APPENDIX 4
Control Your Partner or Love Interest through Magic (1)
Controlling your partner or love interest (2)
can be done using urine (4) in a love spell (3). Many
people know about the great effectiveness (5) of this
technique. Included among them, several paranormals
(6) in various locations often use urinein love spells
(7) to help people easily get their desired mates (8).
However, on the downside, using urine in a love
potion can also be dangerous, because if used in a
large quantity (9) it can cause lifelong incurable
insanity (10 & 11).
The love potion is made in a unique way. The
urine that is going to be used in the love spell is mixed
with food or a beverage. The food or drink that will
be given to the love interest will obviously be yellow.
The reason for doing this is to avoid suspicion on
the part of your love interest (12). To neutralize the
stench of the urine (13), you can mix it with the aroma
of food or drinks.
It is better if the drink given to your love
interest contains a high alcohol or soda content (14).
If you can still see or smell the urine, a spell can be
put over your love interest to make him/her pass out
(15). While unconscious, the urine can easily be
dripped in the person s mouth (16).
You shouldn t use too much urine. A few drops
should be enough. That way, the color, smell, and
taste shouldn t be noticeable (17). If the person you
like (18) knows that the beverage served is mixed
with urine, of course he/she will not drink it (19).
Furthermore, the person will be suspicious for a long
time and unable to trust you anymore (20).
Besides being mixed in drinks, urine that has
been given a spell also can be sprayed within the
aura of the person you want to attract by making a
magical fence around him/her (21). The way to do
this is by pouring the urine into a bowl-shaped
66
container (22). Then a ritual needs to be performed
to make his/her aura appear (23). After his/her aura
appears, three drops of urine are dripped within his/
her aura. The results speak for themselves (24). Even
though it doesn t taste or smell very good, the urine
is able to make your love interest fall crazily in love
with you (25). Your love interest will even be willing
to sacrifice everything he/she possesses to you (26).
However, you cannot use just any kind of
urine (27). To get the most effective results, it is best
to use urine when you want to urinate. To get the
most effective (28) urine, you should use the urine
when you wake up first thing in the morning. Usually
when a person wakes up in the morning, the urine is
a concentrated yellow color (29). According to love
potion experts (30), urine that is a dark yellow color
will be most effective (31) when used as a media for
a love spell (32). The urine should be poured and
kept in an unbreakable sturdy bottle (33) to maintain
its integrity and potency (34).
After that, you should bury the bottle filled
with urine under ground (35) for seven days and
seven nights by putting a gravestone on top of it (36),
just like in a cemetery (37). Every night rose, jasmine,
and magnolia water (39) is poured on the mound
(38) with the bottle buried under it. Every time the
flower water is poured on the mound, a special
mantra needs to be read (40). To make the ritual
more pure (41), it is better to have a paranormal
(42) carry it out. After seven days and seven nights,
you should dig up the bottle with urine inside and
place it under your pillow (43) while sleeping for
one night. After that, you can use the urine as a love
potion or to keep your partner from going astray
(44). To make it tolerable to drink, you can mix the
urine with food or a drink.