In a recent comment, Talmida pointed to this blog. Naturally, coming from such a source, I immediately went to visit and was delighted by what I found there.
This blog is a discussion of all sorts of difficulties in the translation of the Bible. One of the chief discussions of recent date was the question of gender neutrality and proper translation. A blog like this one helps to sort out a number of issues that are related to this.
It is a place for interesting insights into Biblical translation. I found it fascinating even though I do not speak any of the original languages. But even those of us who do not can contribute to better translations by guiding those who philological and linguistic abilities are finely attuned, by suggesting alternative wording that may help in precision of expression or in beauty of language (depending on the purpose and guidelines of translation).
If you're interested in the Bible and in Bible studies, this might be a gateway to many interesting places. I'm approaching it very slowly because I have a feeling that there is a tremendous amount available--more than I may have the time for. But one more blog right now won't hurt!
Thank you Talmida.
Later: I see one of the authors of the Blog found his way here. Thank you for the visit Mr. Leman.
Leter still: I'm wondering whether or not it is possible to have a truly majestic "inclusive" language Bible. I think, perhaps it is, but I have my doubts that it is usually a priority. As Talmida points out in the coments, translation is focused largely on accessibility to the greatest number of people. Such a missiion encourages the idiomatic and even the colloquial. However, perhaps translation can also take into account those of us who do not usually take up idiomatic Bibles and who are looking for the grandeur of some of the older translations with the insights of present linguistic understandings and sensitivities.
Dear Steven,
I think I may have learned more about English at BBB than I have about Hebrew or Greek! We catholics come from a tradition of having the Bible read and explained to us. I think maybe our translations may tend to reflect that.
Other denominations, particularly evangelicals, seek to make the Scriptures available for personal daily reading BY each and every individual - the Book you turn for to find the answers to your problems. The Book you pray with. I had never thought about the implications of this before - how the English of such translations must be completely idiomatic English and as close to the reader's dialect as possible.
One of the pleasant surprises for me about BBB is the opportunity it has given me to learn more about and be part of a community with other Christians. Wayne's a great host.
Dear Talmida,
You say so much that is so true. I can't speak for those who have a foundational Catholic approach to the Bible, but I come from the Baptist tradition and from a time when it was solidly in the KJV camp, which is one reason for my fondness for it. Reading the bible daily is so critically important to the life of faith.
Accessibility is essential--accessiblity for all--the (English) language snobs (me) and the people who really want to get in touch with God's revelation for them. One thing I have found in my discussions with others is how important a translation can be with regard to faith life. When someone asks me what is the "best" translation--not being a scholar in the field, my response is, "The translation that you love to read the most." Certainly there are better and worse translations for accuracy and for really critical theological studies, but truthfully, if you fall in love with Jesus over and over again by reading The Good News Bible--then that is the "best" translation for your purposes.
The very best bible is the one that keeps you reading day after day after day--the one that informs your spirit, the one that puts you in touch with the Author of all Bibles. All of these translations exist because a person or group of people have found problems with those already extant. Each of these Bibles may speak to different people.
Your point is so critical--reading, praying, and internalizing the truth of the loving God revealed by scripture is so important. It is so vastly important that each person needs to find the Bible that keeps them reading, day in, day out. Reading scripture becomes a kind of spiritual breathing.
Once again, thank you for introducing me to the site--it is inspiring in so many ways. I love to see so many people ardently in love with the word and trying to make it available to everyone!
shalom,
Steven