Subject: What is the best version of the Bible? |
Bible Note: The older I get (and I do get older) and the more I read the various versions of the Bible, the more convinced I become that the best version is the one that speaks best to you -- that you enjoy, feel comfortable using, and can understand, The only caveat I would offer is that it should not be a free paraphrase but a true translation, one that manages to strike a proper balance between being as transparent as possible to the Hebrew and Greek manuscripts while at the same time rendering God's message in standard, contemporary English. If I had to name a translation or two that would meet these criteria, I'd be forced to name the NASB and NKJV as qualified candidates. Some of the newer versions, e.g., English Standard and Holman Christian Standard may well be on their way to earning their place among this august group also, but they need a bit more time yet in order for their ink to dry more thoroughly. --Hank |