Speaking of Translations part 3
This is what I said when I first began talking about translations
“I’ve studied the Bible long enough that reading the more “modern” translations seems, I dunno, sort of “disrespectful” and “un-studying” to me. I do tell people, however, if you’re new to the Bible, read one of the more “flowing” translations, such as “The New Living Translation” or even “The Message.” I personally don’t like “The Message” but some Bible teachers that I greatly admire use it, so that tells me that it is ok, but I just don’t like it.”
I have since actually read from “The New Living Translation” - WOW! Am I ever impressed! I’d heard it was good, but man, it is very good! There are no feelings of “disrespect” or “un-studying” at all! Not only do the story lines flow, but even the most poetic of writings are beautiful.
We used verse 1 from the 23rd Psalm as an example before - this is how it reads in The New Living Translation, “The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.”
I just couldn’t resist printing it all. And you know what? As I was reading that (even now) I noticed, maybe for the first time, that the Psalm changes from talking about the Lord in the third person (He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me…) to talking to the Lord, personally (Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. emphasis added.)
Now, see what “really reading, what we’re reading” can do?
Next time - back to another “idea” to try…