HCSB Interview
Some notes and a link on my book’s (What’s in a Version?) page.
Some notes and a link on my book’s (What’s in a Version?) page.
One of the experiences that shaped my approach to Biblical languages and Biblical studies occurred late in my first year of Greek. The teacher was Lucille Knapp at Walla Walla College (now Walla Walla University), and she really enjoyed Greek and was quite expressive. She kept us on our toes. I was translating a verse…
I’m continuing my chapter by chapter response to Misquoting Jesus with a discussion of chapter 2, “The Copyists of the Early Christian Writers.” I continue to see this book as a basic introduction to New Testament Criticism (in agreement with Elgin Husbheck, Jr.), though the hype connected with it tries to make it sound more…
I am very slow to criticize translations in broad terms. Every time I point out what I consider to be a problematic rendering in some Bible translation, someone will ask me if they should discard that version in exchange for a more accurate one. Any translation will contain renderings that can be questioned. In many…
I started carrying the TNIV recently. I had been using it only in electronic form to do some studying and comparison, but I decided to see how it would work as a “carrying” Bible. That means I take it to church, Sunday School, study groups, and I keep it at hand during my study time…
In my materials for my Bible Translation Selection Tool, I only have one entry for the New American Standard Version even though that version was revised in 1995. The major change was the removal of archaic language in prayer–no more thee’s and thou’s. A few other changes were made. In preparing an entry on exegesis…
The evaluation of a Bible translation hinges on various factors including theological perspectives and language familiarity. Controversy often arises over word choice, as seen in Romans 3:25’s varying translations of “propitiation.” Differing translation strategies result in diverse renderings, which can align with or challenge doctrinal positions. I encourage comparing translations and checking translator qualifications. Don’t assume “literal” means “accurate.” Instead, make use of multiple translations for a fuller understanding.
Henry – a question. I just noted a request from a new attendee and new reader of the Bible at the Bible Study I attend (and teach occasionally). One or two of the faithful people there use the NIV. I have been cautious with this version and just read what I consider a mistranslation of Romans (noted here) I don’t read books myself that sell themselves based on adjectives like ‘international’ – a word that seems to me to be code for ‘conservative’. Is my gut feel out to lunch here?
Our pew Bible is REB, one that I think is reasonably good – though ‘New’ and ‘Revised’ as adjectives clearly date the translation. Like many I grew up with the AV and RSV – both also suffering from adjectives in the name. That’s why I call my own translations personal!