Bible Translations

A reader asked me which English translation of the bible I prefer.

I don’t have strong views about translations. Most are of value, provided the reader understands the basis on which they are done. I have always used the New International Version (NIV) because it was a fresh translation when I started teaching and preaching (and easier to read in public than the (KJV). I realise that it is not perfect, but I know my way round my NIV bible, so I have stuck with it.

I also used the New American Standard Bible (NASB) because it is a more literal translation, but harder to understand.

The balance between accuracy and readability is one that every person must work out for themselves. Because I am quite analytical and a bit nerdy, I prefer to err on the accuracy side. But for most people a translation that is readable will be more important.

I always say that the “best translation” is the one that you can regularly read and understand. That will vary from person to person. It is no use having a totally accurate translation, if you never read it. People who are not confident readers are probably better to go with one of the modern paraphrases, such as the Passion Bible.

I think to is good to switch translations from time to time, because it helps you see things that you missed. If one translation gets stale, a new one might be more illuminating.

I am currently reading from the First Testament translated by John Goldingay and the Second Testament by Scot McKnight. Their approach to translation is to try and make their English as much like the structure and style of the original Hebrew and Greek text. This makes them a bit harder to read, but I have found these translations quite refreshing.

One thing that I like most about the second Testament is that Scot McKnight assiduously avoids the religious words that dominate most English translations. This gives a different slant on what Jesus and Paul were teaching.

For example, Scot uses the word “deliverance” for the “sozo” related Greek words instead of the usual religious translation “salvation”. I find this really refreshing, and it has forced me to think more clearly about the gospel message and the nature of what Jesus achieved.

“Salvation” has become a religious word carrying meanings that Jesus and Paul did not intend. Using the words “Deliver/deliverance” gives the New Testament a different emphasis.