Bible Question:
Searching a lot in books and the net I see defense and attach to the different translations of the Bible primary with KJV, NASB and NIV, do you think, bible versions can become an idol to a peron? Is there something in the bible about His own Word become and idol? Thanks, Praize the Lord, Regards, Lorenzo Jimenez |
Bible Answer: Lorenzo, That's a good question. Personally I don't see them becoming an idol among Christians. But that would have a lot to do with who all is defining what an idol is. In the 8th and 9th century there were the Iconoclastic Wars which were between groups that did not use images in their worship, and those that did. The Iconoclasts felt that NO images should be used in accordance with the 10 commandaments, but many opposed to their thoughts understood them the images to be merely symbolic. Eventually the Iconclasts lost out. In the same sense, it may be who is the detractor of a certain translations, not the promoter of it that starts the whole idolization of the Bible charge. As far as noticing the attacks and defenses on the web and in print, there is a movement called the KJV Only movement which believes that only the KJV is the true English translation. They in turn demonize modern translations, notably the NIV which in turn is where you have the NIV defend its stance. I think it's often the staunch detractors of things in Christendom that cause problems. To restate my own theory, I just do not see any Christian worshipping the Bible as if it were an idol. Realistically we all have our favorite versions. I love ultra literal translations such as Young's or Green's, but I don't idolize them. I know of nothing in the Bible about the idolization of the books and letters which comprise it. Idols is usually understood as graven images, 3D such as statues, not texts. Take care, SUEDE |