Why has the bible been translated in so many languages?

So more people are able to read it.

So the heathen can read it in their own lingo.

Makes it easier when everyone in the world can have something they can have an opinion on.

Follow the money.

God is not partial. All are given a chance to know their creator and to benefit from his loving guidance and protection.

At one time in history there was only one accepted translation of the bible (Latin). Christianity is a proselytizing religion (they continuously feel the need to make converts). Back when there was only one translation, they advanced the acceptance of the christian faith using the sword and force conversion. It really didn't matter because very few people could read anyway, and of course the church propagated illiteracy, because it gave them more control over the masses, and could tell you what ever they wanted as to what the bible said. Today they have difficulty converting people by force or warfare, so they've turned to a more peaceful agenda, In this fashion they need to show the prospective converts what their bible states and it is best to show them in the tongue of the convert.

The problem with this is that in translation, the translator often has to use his/her opinion as to what word in the new language matches what they think the scripture means. They never require the convert to learn any of the original languages, so often the meaning can be changed or even lost. Genesis 1:1,2 are a prime example. This is the reason that there are so many English translations, because everyone has their own agenda and beliefs, to influence in the translation of the bible.

Because very few people can read Ancient Hebrew.