A Literal Translation of Hebrews 2:14: Evaluation and Exegesis

Evaluation of the NWT and the UASV Translations

Hebrews 2:14 in the Updated American Standard Version (UASV) reads: “Therefore, since the children share in blood and flesh, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he could destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil.” The New World Translation (NWT) reads: “Therefore, since the ‘young children’ are sharers of blood and flesh, he also similarly shared in the same things, so that through his death he might bring to nothing the one having the means to cause death, that is, the Devil.”

The UASV strives for a literal translation, preserving the original Greek structure and vocabulary as closely as possible. The phrase “the one who has the power of death” directly translates “τὸν τὸ κράτος τοῦ θανάτου” (ton to kratos tou thanatou), indicating a focus on the original language’s exact meaning.

In contrast, the NWT opts for a more interpretive approach with “the one having the means to cause death.” This rendering introduces a level of interpretation by suggesting the method or means by which death is caused rather than the power or dominion over death. While both translations aim to convey the same concept, the UASV adheres strictly to the original text, allowing readers to interpret the meaning themselves. At the same time, the NWT provides an interpretive nuance that can influence the reader’s understanding.

Evaluation of the NWT Interpretive Translation Philosophy

The New World Translation’s philosophy involves a level of interpretation that goes beyond mere translation. This approach, while aiming to make the text more comprehensible, can lead to an interpretation that reflects the translators’ theological stance. For example, the choice to translate “κράτος” (kratos) as “means” rather than “power” or “dominion” indicates an effort to clarify the role of Satan without implying absolute authority over death.

This interpretive translation philosophy can seem beneficial for readers seeking immediate clarity. However, if a translator’s interpretation is wrong or biased, it can prevent the reader from accessing what God originally said. For instance, the phrase “bring to nothing” in the NWT may suggest a less definitive defeat than “destroy,” which is used in the UASV. This subtle difference can shape the theological implications perceived by the reader, potentially aligning more closely with the doctrines of the translating body rather than the neutral position of the original text. This makes it critical that translations remain as literal and unbiased as possible to preserve the original message.

Evaluation of Their Biblical Explanation

The biblical explanation provided by the Jehovah’s Witnesses, as seen in their interpretation of Hebrews 2:14, centers on the notion that Satan possesses the “means to cause death” rather than ultimate power over it. They argue that Satan can influence death through his actions and agents, but not without God’s permission, as illustrated in the book of Job (Job 1:12, 18-19; 2:6).

This explanation is consistent with their translation philosophy, emphasizing Satan’s limited power and God’s ultimate sovereignty. However, it is essential to consider that the term “κράτος” in the original Greek implies a form of dominion or control, suggesting a more potent influence of Satan over death than the NWT’s interpretation might indicate.

The emphasis on Satan’s role in causing death through human agents and weaknesses is biblically grounded (John 8:44; 1 Corinthians 10:8; Ephesians 6:11), yet it is crucial to recognize that this view can lead to a diminished understanding of Satan’s power compared to the literal text. The UASV’s translation, by maintaining the original terminology, allows readers to interpret the extent of Satan’s power based on the broader biblical narrative without imposing a specific theological perspective.

Importance of Translators Translating and Readers Interpreting

The primary goal of a literal translation is to provide the reader with the original text’s closest possible equivalent in the target language. This approach respects the integrity of the Scriptures, allowing the reader to engage with the text as it was written and draw their interpretations informed by the Spirit-inspired Word of God. Understanding the Bible requires more than a surface reading; it necessitates a careful analysis of its genres, historical context, and language. This method involves discerning the various biblical genres and understanding the original meanings intended by the Bible authors from a conservative grammatical-historical perspective. By doing so, readers can accurately interpret and apply the timeless truths of Scripture to their lives, becoming biblically minded and embracing these truths as true. This conservative approach to biblical exegesis critiques the fallacies and biases prevalent in modern biblical criticism, emphasizing the authority and inerrancy of Scripture.

The translators’ role is to convey accurately what the original authors wrote without imposing their interpretations or theological biases. The Updated American Standard Version (UASV) exemplifies this by translating the Greek text as “the one who has the power of death,” leaving it to the reader to understand this within the full biblical context. This method aligns with the philosophy that translation should be about accuracy and faithfulness to the original text, enabling readers to explore the Scriptures’ meaning through personal study and guidance from the Spirit-inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

In contrast, the interpretive approach of the New World Translation (NWT) can lead to predetermined theological conclusions. While this may assist some readers in understanding complex passages, it also risks obscuring the original text’s nuances and richness. Therefore, maintaining a clear distinction between translation and interpretation upholds the Scriptures’ purity and allows for a deeper, more personal engagement with God’s Word.

In summary, a literal translation philosophy, as exemplified by the UASV, ensures that the translator’s task is to present the text as faithfully as possible to the original, allowing the reader to undertake the interpretive work. This method respects the text’s integrity and supports the primary goal of translating truthfully, adhering to the belief that Scripture should be understood as it was divinely inspired and recorded by the original authors. To be fair and honest, the 1984 NWT reference Bible was a very literal translation, and setting aside the theologically biased verses, it was fairly accurate. However, in 2013, after 135 years of using (They used the KJV and ASV before producing the NWT) and providing literal translations, they abandoned their literal translation philosophy. The same can be said of the NASB, which was known as the literal translation after the 1901 ASV. Then, in 2020, they, too, decided to abandon almost 60 years of literal translation philosophy for interpretive translation philosophy, that is, a dynamic equivalent.

The UASV Is Available As of the Date of This Article HERE …

• e-Sword Bible Software for Free
• Logos Bible Software
• Kindle Direct Publishing (eBook and Audio) [With KDP you can now get UASV and eBook discounted to read and listen.]

The Updated American Standard Version was initially released in a hardcover edition through a print-on-demand provider; however, the resulting quality fell short of the high standards desired for this significant project, and the partner subsequently imposed a policy against books exceeding 1,000 pages—our Bible totals 1,450 pages—leaving us without a suitable printing option. Securing that original provider required six years of effort, as most Bible printing companies mandate large upfront orders of 1,000 to 5,000 copies, which involves substantial inventory storage and shipping responsibilities—requirements that have remained financially unfeasible for our self-funded ministry, which developed the translation over 16 years with minimal donations totaling approximately $200. Despite these obstacles, the digital edition has consistently earned five-star reviews, with numerous individuals earnestly requesting a premium physical copy that reflects the dedicated scholarship invested. Producing such a durable, high-quality printed Bible remains a primary goal; we have explored partnerships with several major Christian publishers for printing and distribution rights, though these inquiries have not yet succeeded. Progress depends on improved financial resources or identification of a capable print-on-demand service equipped for this volume, and we anticipate potential advancement as early as late 2028 or sooner through divine provision. Your continued patience and donations, encouragement, and support are profoundly appreciated during this process.

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