Over the summer, a very dear friend of mine wondered why there are so many different translations of the Bible. She seemed nervous to ask, believing the answer might cause her faith to crumble. It was likely she felt this due to the misconception that each translation conveys a different message. The ESV, KJV, NIV, etc., all present conflicting accounts of the Bible based on wording. However, that is not the case! I was thrilled my friend came to me with this question. There are numerous translations of the Bible, but there is sound reasoning for their existence. I’m sure even you, dear reader, have often pondered the same question! I am excited to explore this with you.

 

The Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, which are very different from English. This difference makes translating these languages into English not always clear. Words and phrases in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek do not always have direct equivalents in English, leading translators to choose various methods. They can opt for either Word-for-Word or Thought-for-Thought translations. Word-for-Word (Formal Equivalence), which includes translations such as KJV, ESV, and NASB, aims to adhere closely to the original wording. In contrast, Thought-for-Thought (Functional Equivalence) translations, such as NIV or NLT, seek to convey the message of the original text in a way that is accessible for modern readers.

 

Let’s do an exercise to show this as an example. Let’s take the Bible verse Luke 13:24 and examine it in different translations.

  • KJV à “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.”
  • ESV à “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.”
  • NIV à “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.”
  • NLT à “Work hard to enter the narrow door to God’s Kingdom, for many will try to enter but will fail.”

You see? Though the translations use different methods, we can still see the message being conveyed clearly.

 

However, some verses are not as straightforward as Luke 13:24. Even so, several points should be kept in mind. Firstly, only a few scholars significantly disagree about translating certain words and phrases in the Bible. Secondly, Bible translations often note this in their footnotes when applicable. It is not a secret. Thirdly, the scholarly efforts of individuals in performing accurate translations help us identify incorrect translations more effectively. It is also essential to remember that no central doctrine of orthodox Christianity relies on a disputed or uncertain translation. The Bible says what it says and means what it means. It is the living word of God!

 

In my response to my friend, I explained the things I discussed previously to help her rest in the truth that God’s Word is accurate and authoritative. Though the work of scholars has been beneficial, it should not surprise Christians because we serve a sovereign God. God has merely used scholars to think his thoughts after him! I hope you feel prepared to explain why there are so many Bible translations in the future if your friend ever asks you one day, too!

 

Work Cited

 

https://www.crossway.org/articles/why-are-there-so-many-versions-of-the-bible/?srsltid=AfmBOoo86UE6gRqIfP6qs8STfhb-vWKUIqTqD_InDfb8bd-BLOU4nWU9

 

 

Written by Caitlyn Conn