6 Flashcards
(20 cards)
What are the three major types of Bible versions?
Formal (strict) translations, Dynamic (free) translations, and Paraphrases.
What causes the variety of Bible translations?
Differences in language, culture, and translation methods cause many Bible versions.
What is a formal or strict translation?
A Bible version translated closely from original Greek and Hebrew texts, aiming to keep original word meaning and structure.
Name some examples of formal Bible translations.
King James Version (KJV), New American Standard Bible (NASB), New Revised Standard Version (NRSV), New King James Version (NKJV), Douay-Rheims (Catholic).
What is a dynamic or free translation?
A Bible version translated from original texts but using modern words and phrases to make the meaning clear and easier to understand.
Give examples of dynamic or free translations.
New International Version (NIV), New English Bible (NEB), Today’s English Version (TEV), J. B. Phillips’ translation.
What are paraphrases in Bible versions?
Versions that are not direct translations but restatements or summaries of other English versions, often adding personal interpretation.
Why should theological students avoid using paraphrases as their main study Bible?
Paraphrases often include the translator’s own ideas and interpretations, so they are less accurate for deep study.
What is a key strength of formal translations?
They use teams of scholars to translate directly from original texts, providing accuracy and reliability.
Why do paraphrases sometimes cause problems in Bible study?
They can smooth over difficult or complex parts and treat different perspectives as contradictions.
What is meant by ‘textual variants’ in Bible translations?
Small differences in original manuscripts that can cause differences in Bible versions.
What lesson can we learn from the case of I John 5:7?
Some Bible verses used to support doctrines might not be in the earliest manuscripts and should be used carefully.
Who is Kenneth Taylor?
Translator of The Living Bible, a well-known paraphrase Bible version.
Who is Jack Blanco?
Translator of The Clear Word, an Adventist paraphrase Bible version.
Why is it good to have several Bible translations in your library?
Different translations can help understand difficult passages better and show different shades of meaning.
What is the best Bible version type for theological study?
Formal or strict translations are best for serious, deep study of Scripture.
What is the difference between formal and dynamic translations?
Formal tries to keep original word structure; dynamic focuses on making meaning clear in today’s language.
What is an example showing dynamic translation freedom?
J.B. Phillips’ translation of Galatians 3:1 uses ‘O you dear idiots of Galatia’ instead of the more formal wording.
What challenge do translators face when moving from one language to another?
It is impossible to translate perfectly word-for-word due to language and cultural differences.
What does ‘exegesis’ mean in Bible study?
The careful study to understand what the Bible actually means.
