Whats your Translation?

I believe that words matter. The decisions that an author makes as he decides what words to use and how to place them together in his work are essential to the ideas that are being communicated.

In this context I think we all need to be aware of the different Bible translations out there, how they bring the original texts to life, and how we decide on a version for our personal use.

There are three general translation philosophies used to transform the Greek and Hebrew versions into English.

The first is the "Idiomatic" translations. This is a liberal paraphrase of the original texts used to make the Bible accessible in modern vernacular, usually designed for those who have not read the Bible before and who are intimidated by the perceived academic nature of Bible study. The Living Bible and The Message are examples of this method.

The second view is the "Dynamic Equivalency" translation. In these versions the original languages have been re-penned using a "thought for thought" philosophy that attempts to understand the main point behind a sentence and subsequently to render it in English. The popular New International Version is the standard bearer in dynamic translation. The New Living Translation can also be considered in this category although it has some leanings towards a paraphrase translation at times.

Third, the "Formal Equivalency" method of translation is a virtual "word for word" In this version the original words are translated as closely as possible to retain as much original intent as possible. The Kings James Version was the mainstay of this philosophy for a very long time, but its clunky 17th century language has seen it being replaced by the New American Standard Bible and the English Standard Version.

So, how did you choose your Bible version? Did someone give it to you? Did you even realize there were different versions? Does it matter which one you use?

I think that the version you choose should be a thoughtful decision based on what you intend to do with the Bible. If you intend to place it on a shelf for dust collection, then who cares? If you plan to read a portion of it a few times a year then a paraphrase or a dynamic translation may be sufficient. However, I believe that if you seek to dig into God's Word and study what he is revealing and communication about Himself and His plans for you, a formal equivalency translation is necessary.

Ultimately, I hope to one day be able to pursue a MDiv. and receive formal linguistic training in Greek and Hebrew so that I may read the texts in the original languages. Until that day comes however, rest assured that I will be delving into my ESV and I hope you will too. Take a look at one HERE.