English Bible Translations Part 14 - DE and Essentially Literal Translation - Conclusion
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- Parent Category: About the Bible
- Category: English Bible Translations - Literal or DE
- Published on Tuesday, 07 October 2008 19:32
English Bible Translations Part 14 - DE and Essentially Literal Translation - Conclusion
Dr. David Vallance
DE translations clearly do not measure up and really should not be considered as proper Bibles. We may find a use for them as commentaries, because that is truly what they are. In contrast, Essentially Literal translations (KJV, NKJV, ESV, NASB, and the New Translation by John Darby) have carefully preserved the accuracy (2 Timothy 2:15), majesty (Psalm 29:4-5), sufficiency (Matthew 4:4), and power of the Bible (Psalm 119:11).
As the King James Version approaches its 400th birthday and its Elizabethan English becomes more obscure and misleading, we ought to consider what version might best replace it. I believe that the English Standard Version should be the heir-apparent, due to the quality of its original-language texts, its essentially literal translation method, its excellent English style, and its conscious attempt to stay connected with many of the familiar KJV words.
If we were suddenly transported into God’s immediate presence, and heard His voice, we would tremble. Should it be any different when we hear Him speak in Scripture? Do we revere His Word and treat it with the utmost respect? Consider Isaiah 66:2: "But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at My word" (ESV).