Bible Question:
Is the NWT more accurate than the NASB because it is "translated from the original languages?" I am a graduate of a conservative protestant college, and am able to argue the Deity of Christ reasonably well when approached by a Jehovah's Witness. Of course we are all familiar with the New World Translation, and how it dovetails with errant doctrine, but I have a specific question about the accuracy of the NASB with the NWT. The people I just met at my door showed me where the NWT has "rendered from the original languages" on the inside cover, and contrasted that with my Lockman foundation NASB, where it says under the preface that it was translated from the Authorized Version (KJV), and says nothing about being retranslated from the original manuscripts. I know that the NASB is a reliable translation, but help me. Here is my question. Assuming that the Original KJV was somewhat in error on some matters of translation, and acknowledging the help that recently discovered manuscripts, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls provide, help me to see how the NASB is an accurate translation made from the original manuscripts, including newly discovered ones, and not just a rehashing of the KJV. Any errors of the NWT (I have heard that it includes things not mentioned in any manuscript) would be appreciated. God Bless Josh |
Bible Answer: ateacher When dealing with any cult it is wise to stay with a 1611 KJV. To do otherwise opens the door for them to use their translation of the Bible, as you just found out. Then instead of discussing the truth of the Word you waste time arguing which is the most accurate translation. The NASB is very good translation but to say it is more or less accurate than say a KJV version is very arbitrary and difficult to prove. Many of the “later” manuscripts have problems of their own and also many are not readily accessible, access is merely to copies that were made available. Many feel this process puts in question the accuracy of the text. The NWT translation is probably not a translation at all, but rather a rewrite of an existing Bible since no translation team has been identified. Also there is no record of any access to any major manuscript that has not been identified to researchers working on other known works. Remember all access to original manuscripts is closely watched and monitored. Having read, studied and compared the major translations (KJV, NKJV, NASB, ESV, NTL) I found the theme remains the same with the main purpose to glorify God and His Son Jesus Christ. There no significant differences when they are viewed in context. Certainly none as flagrant as that the ones that were made to exist between the NWT and them. Next time you friends come to the door insist on the KJV and study the Word not the process of Bible translation. EdB |