Equip De Saints – Author Submission Rules for Bilingual Content
These rules govern the submission of articles written in English and Swahili (Kiswahili) on the Equip De Saints platform. They exist to preserve clarity, doctrinal consistency, editorial quality, and reader trust across languages.
1. Language Declaration (Mandatory)
Before writing or submitting an article, every author must:
- Explicitly select the primary language of the article:
- English
- Swahili (Kiswahili)
Each article must be written in one primary language only.
Mixed-language articles (code-switching within paragraphs) are not permitted, except for:
- Proper nouns
- Quoted Scripture titles
- Untranslated theological terms where necessary (with explanation)
2. Language-Specific Category Assignment
Every article must be assigned:
- One language category (English or Swahili)
- One theological/life category (from the approved 18 categories)
Language categorization does not replace theological categorization.
Example:
- Language: Swahili
- Category: Bible Study and Exposition
3. Originality Across Languages
A. No Automatic Translations
- Machine-translated content (e.g., Google Translate–only articles) is not acceptable.
- Authors must demonstrate fluency and theological clarity in the chosen language.
B. Translated or Adapted Works
If an article is:
- A translation of the author’s own work, or
- An adapted version of a previously published article
The author must:
- Declare this at submission
- Ensure doctrinal accuracy and cultural clarity in the target language
The editorial team reserves the right to request revisions or reject poorly adapted translations.
4. Scripture Usage in Bilingual Contexts
A. Approved Bible Translations
English Articles may use:
- ESV
- NIV
- NLT
- NKJV
Swahili Articles should primarily use:
- Biblia Takatifu (Union Version)
- Biblia Habari Njema
Other translations require editorial approval.
B. Scripture Presentation Rules
- Scripture must be quoted in the same language as the article
- Verse references must be clearly cited (Book, chapter, verse)
- If referencing Scripture in another language for comparison, this must:
- Be clearly marked
- Be explained contextually
Scripture must always be explained, not merely quoted.
5. Word Count Rules Apply Per Language
Minimum word counts apply independently to each language.
A Swahili article must meet the same category-based minimums as an English article.
Shorter language does not justify reduced theological depth.
6. Tone, Clarity, and Audience Awareness
Authors must write with:
- Clear grammar and structure
- Respect for the linguistic and cultural context of readers
- Avoidance of slang, regionalisms, or idioms that may confuse a global audience
Swahili content should maintain:
- Respectful, formal Kiswahili suitable for teaching Scripture
- Avoidance of street or informal dialects
7. One Article, One Language Rule
- Authors must not submit the same article in two languages as a single post.
- Each language version must be submitted as a separate article.
- Cross-linking between language versions may be added by the editorial team.
8. Editorial Review & Quality Control
- English and Swahili articles are reviewed independently
- Editors may request:
- Linguistic clarification
- Scriptural rephrasing
- Cultural or theological adjustments
Failure to meet language clarity or doctrinal standards may result in rejection, regardless of theological soundness.
9. Author Responsibility Statement
By submitting bilingual content, the author affirms that:
- They are competent in the chosen language
- Scripture has been handled faithfully
- The content aligns with the Doctrinal Statement of Equip De Saints
- The article serves the equipping mission of the platform
Guiding Principle
Language is not merely a tool of communication—it is a stewardship. Every article, whether in English or Swahili, must teach clearly, honor Scripture, and build up the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:12).
