Various Bible Translations

Few of us have the training and ability to read the Bible in its original languages (Hebrew and Aramaic in the Old Testament and Greek in the New Testament). We must therefore depend on translators to bring the Bible into our own language. The question that is often raised is “Which translation is the best?” If you expect to receive an answer from me, you will be disappointed. I will not recommend nor endorse a specific translation, but it may help if you understand the various principles used in Bible translation work.

a. Literal

Translators, using this principle, seek to translate each original word into the closest equivalent word in the reader’s language. The strength of this method is that it is a word for word translation of the Bible giving the reader a close rendering of the literal words of the original writings. The weakness of this principle is that the translation can be stiff and difficult to read, and that words cannot always be found to translate the original words of the Biblical text. For example, the one English word “love” is used to translate two Greek words in the New Testament. But unless you are acquainted with the Greek text, there is no way of telling which Greek word is being translated. This problem is seen in the conversation between Jesus and Simon Peter in John 21:15-17. (Examples include:The New American Standard Version, The King James Bible and the Revised Standard Version)

b. Dynamic Equivalence

Translators using this principle seek to translate, not the literal words, but the meaning these words convey. The strength of this principle is that the translation is more readable in the reader’s language. The weakness of this principle is that the Bible student who cannot understand the original languages, is now further distanced from the original words. An example of this is the Greek word “sarx” which translates as “flesh” in English. It is used repeatedly by Paul in Romans chapter 8. However, the translators of the New International Version, using the principle of Dynamic Equivalence, express what they believe is Paul’s intended meaning with various English words and phrases such as “sinful nature” (verses 3, 5, 9, 12 & 13) and “sinful man” (verses 3 & 6). (Examples include: The New International Version & Today’s English Version or Good News Bible)

c. Paraphrase

Translators, taking the principle of Dynamic Equivalence further, seek to translate the original language into their modern colloquial equivalent. The strength of this principle is that the translation is highly readable. The weakness is that the Bible student is now further distanced from the original words by the translators’ interpretation of the original writings.(Example: The Living Bible)

So which type of Bible translation is the best for Bible Study? The answer is all three! You should use a Literal translation as your primary Study Bible, and other Bibles to compare Scripture to gain a better understanding. Ask your Pastor which Bible they would recommend. The Christian Bookstores can also provide help in choosing a good Study Bible.