Why Are There So Many Different Versions of the Bible?
Posted on: 22 April 2015
If you walk into any bookstore and wander to the Religion section, you'll likely find a dozen different translations of the world's best-selling book--the Bible. Each version is focused on the same topic and includes the same stories and verses, so why the need for so many different translations? There are many reasons, some of which are quite important.
There Are Different Religions and Denominations
While the Bible is traditionally associated with Christians only, there is actually a Hebrew version specifically meant for Jews, as well. Also, not all Christian denominations use the same version either. Catholics, for example, have more books in their Bible than Protestants. These books are called the Apocrypha and they are very important to Catholicism, although not even mentioned in most Protestant religions.
Language Changes over Time
Some of the older versions of the Bible are becoming somewhat outdated, since language changes extensively over time. Though the original King James version was written in English, many of the words and phrases used are difficult for most people to understand nowadays. This has led publishers to introduce newer, more simplified versions of the Bible, like The Message translation and the New International Version.
Historical Knowledge Has Expanded
In addition to gradual changes in the use of language, scientists and historians have also discovered important artifacts and information that help translators understand the original Bibles more completely. Because the first Bibles were written in Greek, Aramaic, and Hebrew, some phrases don't directly translate into English. When this happens, translators must make educated guesses about the author's original intention, using the surrounding content and information they know about these past civilizations. With each new archaeological find, society learns a bit more about these old lands and people's way of thinking back then. They incorporate this knowledge into the new translations of the Bible.
Translations May Have Different Uses
Finally, some biblical translations have practical purposes. While some versions are translated for literal interpretation and simple reading, others are meant to be studied and examined more closely. These translations may have special phrases inserted to explain passages. Oftentimes, they even have whole sections or chapter openers that explain a bit about the history of that time period. These excerpts will usually give a bit of background information on the original writers, as well.
Conclusion
Whether you believe its passages or not, the Bible is an intriguing book, if only for the rich history it may boast. Readers who are interested in religion or world history might enjoy reading a few different versions to compare and understand a bit more about life in the Middle East during biblical times. Take a gander at a used bookstore to see a sample of the many different versions of the Bible.
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