Psalm 119:133 – Mastery
The Psalmist asks God to direct his paths and not to allow any evil to have control over him. I discuss variations on this theme.
Psalm 119:131 – Panting
Going from words to meaning and from principles to sound action is hard work. We need to make the effort, but also recognize the reality: We won’t necessarily get there.
Psalm 119:116 – Supported
Our hope is founded in God, who sustains and supports us.
A Problem in Translation: Isaiah 3:12
Translation challenges Bible translators face, focusing on Isaiah 3:12’s varying interpretations. The passage’s meaning shifts depending on what textual choices one makes and whether one translates literally or figuratively, potentially impacting the modern reader’s understanding. Ultimately, translation choices reflect what translators deem most crucial to convey, with any decision risking some loss of the original message.
Translating Poetry
On March 24, 2016, blog entry marked 11:40 AM, Dave Black talks about translating poetry and links to his essay on the topic from a Festschrift, available via Google Docs. Reading Dave’s comments about translating poetry reminded me of one of my favorite translations of poetry from any language to any other, Max Knight’s translations…
Thomas Hudgins Looks at Literal in Translation
The term “literal,” when used regarding translation, can drive translators quite mad, I think. But it is a commonly used word in the pews and the hallways of churches. “We don’t take things that literally around here,” is something I hear regularly in United Methodist churches. Which leaves the question of just how do we…
Good and Bad Translation
Simon Cozens discusses good and bad translations (HT: Kouya) and concludes: So when it comes to Bible translations, I don’t really care, relatively speaking, about the methodology behind the translation. I don’t necessarily care if it’s literal or dynamic or whatever. The more important question is, is it a good translation or a bad translation?…
Thoughts on Translating Psalm 22
First, two warnings. I’m not going to go into detail on the numerous translation difficulties in Psalm 22 and this post results from a book currently in the final stages of release from my company, Energion Publications. So if you want to avoid the potential commercial side, skip this one. On the other hand, that’s…
The Best Bible Version is the One You Read
Across the front cover of my book What’s in a Version? I placed the slogan that forms the title of this post. You might think it’s a strange thing to put on the cover of a book. I’ve used it in class as well. I’ve received more criticism for that one line than for anything…
Michael Patton on the Best Bible Version
I’m glad to see this, though I do disagree with a few points. First, I don’t agree that using a formal equivalence translation means you are closer to the original. You are closer in some ways–reflecting the words and structure of the original language–yet you are often further in other ways, including reflecting the thought….