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* Watchtower Magazine 04 12/1 p. 30 A “Remarkably Good” Translation *

A “Remarkably Good” Translation

ACCORDING to one count, as many as 55 new English translations of the Christian Greek Scriptures were published between 1952 and 1990. Translators’ choices mean that no two read alike. In order to assess the reliability of the translators’ work, Jason BeDuhn, associate professor of religious studies at Northern Arizona University, in Flagstaff, Arizona, U.S.A., examined and compared for accuracy eight major translations, including the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, published by Jehovah’s Witnesses. The result?

While critical of some of its translation choices, BeDuhn called the New World Translation a “remarkably good” translation, “better by far” and “consistently better” than some of the others considered. Overall, concluded BeDuhn, the New World Translation “is one of the most accurate English translations of the New Testament currently available” and “the most accurate of the translations compared.”—Truth in Translation: Accuracy and Bias in English Translations of the New Testament.

BeDuhn noted, too, that many translators were subject to pressure “to paraphrase or expand on what the Bible does say in the direction of what modern readers want and need it to say.” On the other hand, the New World Translation is different, observed BeDuhn, because of “the greater accuracy of the NW as a literal, conservative translation of the original expressions of the New Testament writers.”

As the New World Bible Translation Committee acknowledges in the foreword to its work, it is “a very responsible thing” to translate the Holy Scriptures from their original languages into modern speech. The Committee goes on to say: “The translators of this work, who fear and love the Divine Author of the Holy Scriptures, feel toward Him a special responsibility to transmit his thoughts and declarations as accurately as possible.”

Since its first publication in 1961, the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures has been made available in 32 languages plus 2 Braille editions. The Christian Greek Scriptures of the New World Translation, or the “New Testament,” is available in an additional 18 languages plus one Braille edition. We invite you to read God’s Word in this modern and “remarkably good” translation, perhaps in your own language.

IS THIS TRUE?

REVIEWING 2013 New World Translation of Jehovah’s Witnesses: Examining the History of the Watchtower Translation and the Latest Revision (May 2022)

REVIEWING the 2013 New World Translation of Jehovah’s Witnesses is going to challenge your objectivity. Being objective means that personal feelings or opinions do not influence you in considering and representing facts. Being subjective means that your understanding is based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or ideas. If the reader finds these insights offensively, it might be a little mind control at work from years of being told the same misinformation repeatedly, so ponder things objectively. We can also have preconceived ideas that have been a part of our thinking for so long; we do not question them. Preconceived is an idea or opinion that is formed before having the evidence for its truth. If we are to be effective, we must season our words so that they are received well. Then there is the term preconception, which means a preconceived idea or prejudice. Seasoned words, honesty, and accuracy are distinctive features of effective apologetic evangelism.

EVALUATING THE NEW WORLD TRANSLATION: An Examination of the Accuracy of the New World Translation of Jehovah’s Witnesses (April 2023)

EVALUATING THE NEW WORLD TRANSLATION provides a thorough and objective evaluation of the accuracy of the New World Translation (NWT), used by the Jehovah’s Witnesses. Drawing on a wealth of linguistic and theological resources, the author assesses the NWT’s adherence to the original Greek and Hebrew texts and compares it to other well-known translations of the Bible. Through detailed analysis, the author explores the validity of the NWT’s interpretations and renderings of key passages, uncovering potential inaccuracies and biases. This book is an essential resource for anyone seeking to better understand the NWT and its impact on biblical scholarship. Whether you are a Jehovah’s Witness, a student of the Bible, or simply interested in the accuracy of religious texts, this book will provide you with the knowledge and insights necessary to form your own informed opinions.

WHILE WE ARE EVALUATING TRANSLATIONS

THE NASB: Preserving Truth or Compromising Accuracy?: A Critical Look at the Shift from the 1995 to 2020 Editions of the New American Standard Bible (NASB) [October 2023]

In an era where the sanctity of God’s Word is under relentless scrutiny and reinterpretation, the New American Standard Bible (NASB) has long stood as a bastion of literal translation philosophy. But has the latest 2020 edition lived up to its celebrated heritage of formal equivalence, or has it compromised on accuracy for the sake of readability and modern relevance?

“THE NASB: Preserving Truth or Compromising Accuracy?” delves deeply into these pressing questions. This book meticulously examines the shifts in translation philosophy from the respected NASB 1995 Edition to the newer 2020 version. With a concrete foundation in the historical-grammatical method of interpretation, the book unpacks the significance of every word and phrase, revealing the profound responsibility carried by Bible translators.

The book opens with a thorough history of the NASB editions, setting the stage for a detailed comparison. It scrutinizes the 2020 Edition’s leanings toward dynamic equivalence, a concerning trend that could lead to more interpretive translations in future NASB editions. Utilizing key passages for comparative analysis, the book evaluates how these changes might affect serious Bible study and theological understanding.

Moreover, the book exposes misleading shifts in gender language and questions the continued inclusion of Textus Receptus readings in the NASB, which may compromise the integrity of the original texts. It also debunks fallacies about Bible translation and readership, advocated by scholars like Leland Ryken, advocating instead for a return to a translation that adheres closely to the original languages of the Scriptures.

This comprehensive critique serves as a wake-up call for every believer who values the inerrant word of God. It emphasizes that translators should aim for nothing less than absolute faithfulness to the original texts, upholding the heavy responsibility of delivering God’s truth to humanity, uncompromised and unaltered.

Prepare to embark on a journey that will deepen your appreciation for the magnitude of what is truly at stake in Bible translation and why settling for anything less than a literal translation can imperil the very truth it aims to share.

THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO BIBLE TRANSLATION: Bible Translation Choices and Translation Principles (May 2016)

In the sea of Bible translations, “THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO BIBLE TRANSLATION: Bible Translation Choices and Translation Principles” by Edward D. Andrews emerges as a beacon for the discerning reader. This meticulously researched guidebook serves as an essential resource for understanding the complexities and divine artistry behind translating the Bible — the most influential book in human history.

Delving into the linguistic, textual, and theological nuances of Bible translation, Andrews provides readers with a comprehensive roadmap that traces the journey of the Scriptures from ancient manuscripts to the contemporary versions that rest on nightstands and bookshelves around the world. With an unwavering commitment to accuracy and fidelity to the original texts, this guide underscores the critical philosophy that the meaning of Scripture is a treasure entrusted to the reader’s interpretation, not the translator’s inference.

The table of contents reveals a rich structure organized into four distinct sections: How We Got the Bible, Translation Philosophy, Translation Principles, and Additional Information, each meticulously addressing the layers and lenses through which the Bible has been viewed and conveyed through translations. Chapters explore the text of the Old and New Testaments, the philosophy that underpins translation decisions, and the practicalities of rendering idioms, special terms, and gender-inclusive language. Andrews addresses common theological biases that have crept into translations over the centuries, advocating for a return to the root of what the original biblical authors set down under divine inspiration.

Beyond the theoretical, “THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO BIBLE TRANSLATION” also shares rich historical anecdotes and inspirational accounts of individuals who dedicated — and sometimes sacrificed — their lives to making the Scriptures accessible. From Jerome’s pioneering Vulgate to John Wycliffe’s bold championing of a Bible for the English-speaking commoner, and the poignant life and martyrdom of John Hus, this guide does not shy away from the contentious and courageous history of Bible translation.

With appendices that offer deep dives into the translation debate, interviews with leading scholars, and examinations of key historical figures, Andrews’s guide is more than just an educational tool — it’s a tribute to the enduring legacy of God’s Word and those who have labored to bestow it upon humanity in its most truthful form.

“THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO BIBLE TRANSLATION” is not only an authoritative resource for pastors, theologians, and students of the Bible but also for any reader seeking to understand the principles and challenges that shape the creation of a Bible translation. It reaffirms the notion that truth matters in translation, and it equips readers with the knowledge to choose a Bible that best aligns with this sacred premise. Andrews’s guide illuminates the path of biblical truth for those who seek to follow it faithfully and discerningly.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).