It is easy to get lost or overwhelmed by the amount of Bible translations available today. How should we choose which translation of the Bible to read and why are there so many options? Instead of helping, the different translations seem to create more confusion than clarity. How is it that there are so many different versions of the Bible if they all use the same original texts? Does this mean some translations are right and other translations are wrong?
Translations will never be perfect because you cannot simply substitute the original language for modern English. Translating is difficult because languages are structured in different ways. This means that, sometimes, languages do not fit well together. Most people think that, like a math formula, there is only one right answer when translating. Unfortunately, though,translating is not so straight-forward. Usually, there are multiple ways to state an idea while still conveying the same meaning. So then, translators must decide if it makes more sense to create a literal word-for-word translation, which some people will not understand, or to make an understandable thought-for-thought translation, which conveys the meaning but is not quite as close to the original language.
Every translation has a different purpose. For some, the purpose is to try and perfectly copy the original language into English, regardless of it makes sense. This style of translation is called a formal word-for-word translation. Even if it comes at the sacrifice of comprehension, their aim is to use words that are the closest to the original language. The NASB 1995 is a well-renowned formal translation. Closely behind the NASB 1995 version is the ESV and NKJV. Meanwhile, other translations are more concerned with their readers understanding the meaning and intention of the text. So, instead of translating word-for-word they translate thought-for-thought. These translations are usually much easier to comprehend because they use simpler words and sentences. These translations are called functional translations, and the NLT and NIV are among the most popular from this group.
Even with so many different versions, people should have confidence in the translations of the Bible. In fact, having a plethora of translations should give people more confidence in their ability to understand Scripture. If a passage is unclear in the ESV then it is helpful to cross reference a different translation. Translations are meant to be a tool for Christians to help them understand difficult passages. The different translations do not oppose each other but instead they complement one other.
Written by Luke Radtke