0:00 Categories 3:04 What makes an Accurate Bible 5:30 What Type is the ESV? 8:06 NIV vs. NLT 9:05 The NET as a Study Bible 11:02 Thoughts on the CSB 12:25 Which is Best for Beauty? Accuracy? Readability? 16:13 Dan's TOP 5 PICKS Study and Accuracy: NET Readability & Accuracy: NIV Understated Elegance: ESV Rich Wording: KJV & REB (1989) Ecumentical: NRSV 17:00 What Type is the ASV? 18:45 NRSV and Gender Neutrality 22:33 NKJV is the Least Favorite? 24:26 Not a Big Fan of the NASB? 27:38 What is the Favorite Overall Bible? 28:06 Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts 34:34 Closure
Fails to acknowledge the bad translation of Tyndall and almost every English Bible that improperly translate genitives. Gal 3:22 … so that the promise from out of Jesus Christ’s faithfulness might be given to the faithful - not: so the promise by the faith of Jesus Christ might be given to the believer. Ek is not “by” and the Greek never intends the faith of Jesus Christ but Jesus Christ’s faithfulness, nor does it intend believer rather than faithful
According to Dan Wallace in the video: * He has three criteria in Bible translation: accuracy, readability, elegance. * For accuracy as "the translator's translation": NET * For accuracy with readibilty: NIV * For understated elegance: ESV * For elegance with "rich words" and that is "literary": KJV and REB * For ecumenical (not one of his three criteria but Wallace still mentioned it): NRSV
NIV is most controversial and subtly anti-God along with some others. It not a true translation but a corruption of the original. Don't put if pass Satan to be involved in bible translation under the deception of making it it plainer. God is his own intetpreter.
I have about 50 Bible translations in my house. In my family, I am the keeper of our family Bibles. I always dream that one day when Jesus assigns us work in heaven, maybe He will consider me for a position in the heavenly library. Thanks for posting this.
modern bible versions are based on the Alexandrian manuscripts (less then 50 manuscripts, mainly codex Vaticanus and codex Sinaiticus) that alter and omit many verses and even contradict each other. The AV/KJV however, is based on the traditional majority text from Antioch; 6000+ manuscripts that all agree in their reading. Modern versions are corrupt.
How nice it would be if the Bible had been correctly translated by a prophet of God with NOTHING left out, to begin with, rather than having dozens of different translations!!
NET really grows on you the more you read it and investigate the textual notes and reasons for translating certain ways. I love how if there are discussions about a text, it just presents the issues from both sides and the reasons they went a particular way. I must be a nerd, because I find it enlightening and fun!
Net bible: John 1:18 No one has ever seen God. The only one, himself God, who is in closest fellowship with the Father, has made God known. ESV: John1:18 No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known. KJV: John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared [him]. NASB: John1:18 No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him. Trinity? No Trinity? Depends on which text you desire? Best bible translations? No such thing.
I have one of those green Living Bibles from the 70’s!!!! I’m 67, grew up on the RSV through high school years and my catechism class. Moved to the NIV for many years…and now I’m in love with the KJV. I just naturally translate it in my mind as I read it. Just elegant and direct to the point without a bunch of extra words.
This is my story, also. The only difference is that I never had an RSV. I let go of my Living Bible in the late 80's when a friend showed interest in the Bible. It was a sacrifice at the time I remember! I always return to KJV.
modern bible versions are based on the Alexandrian manuscripts (less then 50 manuscripts, mainly codex Vaticanus and codex Sinaiticus) that alter and omit many verses and even contradict each other. The AV/KJV however, is based on the traditional majority text from Antioch; 6000+ manuscripts that all agree in their reading. Modern versions are corrupt.
The thing about the KJV is that it is THE titan of English literature. Even Richard Dawkins has said "any native English speaker who doesn't know a word of the King James is verging on the barbaric." It may not be the most accurate, but it is the definitive volume of the English language and culture for nearly half a millennium. Everyone with English as a first language regardless of faith should own one.
The KJV is a bad transition of the original Hebrew. It’s an English translation of a Greek translation of the original Hebrew. It’s a copy of a copy of a copy.
@@susanstein6604modern bible versions are based on the Alexandrian manuscripts (less then 50 manuscripts, mainly codex Vaticanus and codex Sinaiticus) that alter and omit many verses and even contradict each other. The AV/KJV however, is based on the traditional majority text from Antioch; 6000+ manuscripts that all agree in their reading. Modern versions are corrupt.
I immediately paused the video and went and bought the NET Bible. Couldn't even wait to the end of the video. Looked up a few verses and Shazam. It's wonderful. There still is no replacement for knowing the Greek words but this is good.
@@billyr9162 Understanding the Greek words is merely the starting point of translation. A greater challenge arises when deciding between interpreting a meaning within its historical and grammatical context versus a direct, word-for-word Greek translation. It becomes even more complex when trying to present these ideas in a way that's readable and relatable for modern audiences. Translation is a demanding task best handled by highly skilled experts, which I feel has been done well in various translations. I prefer to read a trusted choice (my daily driver) while relying on comparison of various other translations along with an Interlinear, word dictionary and other tools, when in tough spots. I feel by reading the various translations that it usually suffices to assist my understanding for the most part, for a normal read. My Greek is way too weak to trust, although I'm working on it.
@@billyr9162 I'm likely further along in my Greek than you are, but yes I still have a long way to go. Like I said even knowing Greek isn't going to make me into a translator.
He’s right about the Revised English Bible. It’s beautiful and vastly underrated and under-appreciated. It’s a shame it isn’t more well-known. I wish Cambridge published it in more reader-friendly editions.
Thank you for this. I have learned quite a bit from Dr. Daniel Wallace. It's always a joy to learn about different translations and textual criticism. God bless both of you for all that you do.
PS I served on the Johannine writings translation group for the New American Bible revised translation, which should come out in a few years. We sought to be consistent in word translations overall, and, when the text was ambiguous in Greek, we left it so in the English rendering. Some really nice diction, I feel.
Thanks for bringing that to our attention, Paul! I wish we would have covered the NAB. Very glad to know you were involved with it and I will be sure to get a copy for my own use!
@@MikeLiconaOfficial thanks so much! And, the Jerusalem Bible is also a fine translation--even for a Quaker, here. (smile) I really loved the NASB in college BECAUSE it was so close to the Greek. I'm also getting Henry Cadbury's works out into a new book--fun hearing him (and a foreword by Bruce Metzger before he passed away) on RSV-project reflections. One essay is on "revision-after-revision".
How does the new NAB treat gender-neutral language (it has been a criticism of previous editions)? Will the new translation use the Grail Psalms or will they use their own translation? Thx
@@MikeLiconaOfficial Catholic here. I hope the new NABRE, whenever it comes out, is an improvement. The existing one is awful. The Vatican's Congregation for Divine Worship rejected it for use in the lectionary because of its extreme use of gender-neutral language. The prose also is not very good. (Classics scholar Anthony Esolen has been railing against if for years.) Plus, the study notes are heterodox in many places, and not written from the standpoint of a believer. Personally, in the US, I wish either the RSV2CE or the ESVCE was adopted for the lectionary. (Of course, the Douay-Rheims is the gold standard IMO. When it was used, people actually attended Mass.)
CSB: "It's not a Southern Baptist only translation--there are some decent scholars who worked on it." I'm pretty sure that didn't come out the way Dr. Wallace intended it, but it was still the best laugh I've had in a long time!
Despite all they said, I like the NLT, NKJV, KJV, NASB and the Geneva Bible. My top 5. A must with me is readability and accuracy. I am not too concerned with the elegance side. Give it to me straight.
modern bible versions are based on the Alexandrian manuscripts (less then 50 manuscripts, mainly codex Vaticanus and codex Sinaiticus) that alter and omit many verses and even contradict each other. The AV/KJV however, is based on the traditional majority text from Antioch; 6000+ manuscripts that all agree in their reading. Modern versions are corrupt.
03:02 (Off-point comment here: “...paraphrastic...” I learned a new adjective today!) 16:30 On-screen Summary of Dan’s top picks. 18:00 Nice little translation tree.
I found this video informative & helpful. Thank you! I enjoy using the NET (& it's notes) for sermon preparation. It's helpful to learn more here about the NET's background. Personally, I prefer the ESV to the NIV. I preached from the NIV for 7 years at the church where I previously served, then switched to the ESV 3 years ago. I prefer it for reading & preaching, one key area being that the ESV picks up imperfect tenses more often. Blessings from Australia.
@@MB-gd6be I highly regard the NASB95 & consult it for every sermon I prepare. I also consult the LSB now & then. But in the circles I move in here in Australia, I find very few people who use those translations, so I prefer to preach from the ESV. I only know one person here who uses the LSB. I do like how the LSB (& NKJV) use italics for extra words the translators have put in. That's one advantage they have over the ESV.
Nkjv is my favorite. I do like the esv but it's nearly impossible not to see how translators read their theology into the translation at parts. Hebrews 12 is one instance. Verse 15 when the author says "lest anyone fall short of the grace of God" (nkjv) is a better translation than "see to it no one fails to obtain the grace of God"(esv). If you are just reading through these phrases might sound the same but If you look closer in study they have much different implications. Nkjv renders a closer meaning based on the context of the passage. Also there is scholarly disagreement on the TR vs NA/UBS texts. The look on the gentleman's face on the left when the TR was mentioned was one of disdain.
King James is attached to the 1611 version because he authorised the translation and choose the scholarly translators of 1611. The NKJV was first published in 1982 with many changes not in agreement with the AKJV. It is a false impression to attach King James to it when it is different from the original. The scriptures cannot be updated like a science text. The AKJV is my choice, I glimpse at some of the others, the majority of them false. Translators do not interpret, they translate only as interpretation belongs to the Spirit. The believers must depend on God to understand his word, he is his own interpreter. There is a devious agenda behind many of the different translations in the Roman racist religion of Christianity eg. the NIV is religiously anti-God.
@@fransikajohn9005 Different languages don't directly translate with literal word for word, interpretation of context and intention is required to prioritize proper meaning for actualizing the accuracy of the delivery.
I inherited my father’s edition of the Anchor Bible when he died. I had given him 30 some volumes one Christmas after I got my first real job and he purchased the rest. It is the work of around 800 scholars, Jewish, Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, Muslim, and secular. It tends to have about 2 lines of text and 2 pages of footnotes. When you get through it, you have a huge sense of accomplishment.
I love Dr. Wallace. 😊 And I generally agree with his analysis of the various Bible translations. But I'd only say he might consider looking again at: 1. CSB. I think the CSB is significantly different from the HCSB and I think it's mostly an improvement. 2. NASB. Specifically the NASB 2020, especially if he thinks the NASB 95 and 77 are too wooden (which I agree they are). The NASB 2020 is underrated. Of course, the NASB in all its incarnations is considered very accurate in the sense of being as transparent with the original biblical languages as is possible for a translation to be (similar to other so-called "literal" or formally equivalent translations like the LSB, LEB, KJV, NKJV, ESV). At the same time, the NASB 2020 is significantly more readable than previous NASB versions. I'd say the NASB 2020's readability is nearly right up there with the CSB and the NIV which are considered very readable, and the NASB 2020 is more readable than the ESV and most other "literal" translations (though the ESV has superior literary style and generally is written in higher register). In short, I think the NASB 2020 balances both accuracy and readability in maximal ways. The NASB 2020 is perhaps closest to the CSB with its optimal equivalence philosophy of translation. In my view, the basic difference between the NASB 2020 and the CSB is that the NASB is more "literal" (i.e. formally equivalent) than the CSB, but the CSB is more readable (i.e. clear and natural) than the NASB 2020.
@@mikemaid5350 check our Isaiah 40.3 in Hebrew and then compare that to the KJV. Why does the KJV say “The voice of him that cries in the wilderness…” when voice doesn’t have the definite article and there is no “of him” in the original Hebrew? Also it says that the voice is in the wilderness but the Masorah that the translators used doesn’t say the voice is in the wilderness…
I wish I could ask Mr. Dan and Mr. Mike about this new Berean Study Bible. I've been reading from it for about two years now, and I consider it my new favorite.
I have a three volume set that has 26 different versions/translations of the entire Bible contrasted & compared where there is a significant difference in the translation for any particular verse. It has been interesting to use. My main Bible is the NKJV, called The Open Bible Expanded Edition, 1983, and I have used it since the late 1980's. But...what really started opening my eyes and mind to the wonderful Bible was when I got my first Strong's Exhaustive Concordance and began looking up the Hebrew and Greek words as I read the verses. it has opened up a whole new world of scriptural study for me. I am wondering why using a good Concordance along with whatever translation of the Bible that one chooses to use was not mentioned? I enjoyed the interview...thanks..!!
Most likely due to the fact that just having a Strongs alone doesn't always provide the correct word especially in Greek. You have to parse the word in order to get the correct gender and even the meaning in some instances. I like a Strongs Concordance and it has its value no question but you have to dig more into the word meaning that is provided to get its true value.
@@rhyne9388 Yes, a lexicon is preferable to just Strong's. Also, Strong's has been, and is still being abused by overzealous people that don't understand that context is very important. The purpose of Strong's was to show the reader the words BEHIND the KJV text. Not an exhaustive explanation of how those original words should be translated. Read the preface and the explanations at the start of the Original complete Strong's. It is there if people only look.
This was an excellent summary of things to consider and Dan's opinion is very worthwhile. Clearly he has a lot of knowledge on the topic. I'd love to hear from other top Greek and Hebrew scholars on this issue.
I like that he affirmed the ESV as a good translation as I have come to the same conclusion, but without the depth and specificity of knowledge that Dan gives. I'll have to spend more time including NET in my studies.
I absolutely love Robert Alter's Hebrew Bible (AKA Old Testament) translation. It is super faithful to the literary form and repeated words and phrases in the original language. It also has notes l
I'm not as fond of Alter's notes as I am of his translation. Alter certainly is a fine literary scholar, but he's largely beholden to a more secular Judaism and his biblical and theological notes often reflect that. However the linguistics portions of his notes are valuable to read. And his Hebrew Bible translation as a whole is pretty good. For example, I enjoyed his rendering of Ecclesiastes, especially the Hebrew word "hebel" or "hevel" which is so central to understanding the meaning of the book and which many English translations fail to capture. In fairness, it is as elusive as chasing the wind to translate "hebel" into English! In any case, Alter translates "hebel" literally as "mere breath". I think that's probably the best we can do. Or something similar like "vapor" or "mist" would work as well (e.g. Ardel Caneday's article on translating it as "vapor" and Jason DeRouchie's article on translating it as "enigma").
I like what Dr. Wallace says about the NIV at around the 14 minute mark about both readability and accuracy. I used to preach from translations like the NASB and KJV, but I recently changed to the NIV because it is just a terrific blend of both. If I'm preparing a sermon or lesson I'll look at several translations but when I'm actually reading the text publically, I read from the NIV. If there happens to be something about the NIV in the text I'm reading from that I disagree with then I can bring it out and give my reasons why I think another translation is better. Overall, I think the NIV is the best for public reading, not too dynamic but not too wooden either.
The NIV 2011 version is the best and most up to date Bible for study and preaching. I do compare to the actual Greek text when in the NT, and look up key Hebrew words as well.
I don't care for the NIV, but I will say that the 2011 edition removed some of its main problems and generally made it more accurate. No more "the smallest of _your_ seeds" nonsense.
KJV, NKJV and NASB are my favorites. (KJV or NKJV only when reading Psalms. The majesty and beauty of olde English is incomparable to newer, wordier, 'more accurate' versions)
the English translation(s) of the Septuagint (Greek Old Testament) but not one called NETS is crucial to use and not to use the current (and only ) Hebrew text if you want the truth and joy of reading.
Very helpful. I learned a ton from his intermediate greek book (and sadly have forgotten most of it!). A little off topic, but I went and hunted down the reference at 15:14 on cultural literacy. I'm pretty sure he's talking about "Cultural Literacy: What Every American Needs to Know" by E. D. Hirsch.
Thank you both. I assumed he must be talking about the book David mentioned, but then found the book Jane mentioned when I tried to look up Alan Bloom in connection with cultural literacy: glad to have my assumptions confirmed by others.
Yeah, the ESV is second best to being the most literal albeit's NT is lacking over 6,200 words and it has the MT OT like the KJV, etc.- all English Bibles; not the OT text the Church has preserved. St. Justin Martyr (AD 100-165) (Dialogue with Trypho, 71-73) and St. Irenaeus (AD 130-210) (Against Heresies, 3.21.1) stated that the scribes deliberately removed, altered or distorted the Messianic verses in their Scripture. The New Testament has approximately 250 direct quotations of Old Testament verses. Ninety percent of the quotations agree with the Septuagint but the majority disagree with the Masoretic Text. “Our Church holds the infallible and genuine deposit of the Holy Scriptures, of the Old Testament a true and perfect version, of the New the divine original itself.” - the “Encyclical of the Eastern Patriarchs” (AD 1848), a reply to the epistle of Pope Pius IX, "To the Easterns" English Bibles's Masoretic Text OT text : it's not the text the (Orthodox) Church has preserved: actually it's a falsified and mutilated revised Hebrew text named "Masoretic" [ from "Masoret" meaning "bond, collar" ]. Decent English translations of the Greek Old Testament / Septuagint ~ Seventy exist ; but the NETS translation of the Greek Old Testament is a fraud : it's based on the NRSV Masoretic Text hidden in Septuagint relatively superfluous words. To save time in seeing all i say is true you may see verses for comparison: 1) on archive.org - there search-bar : " mt vs lxx" ( i made it; contact me and I will send you the latest and improved version as PDF.) 2) And there's two charts online - one uv 25 NT quotes and their OT verses for comparison ; the other uv Proverbs - a 16 page chart - both on ecclesia . org . God Bless.
Digitized library of Greek New Testament manuscripts --- that is extremely exciting !! I "saw" some facsimiles of famous Greek and Hebrew bible manuscripts, back in 80's when I was a university student (it was founded by a Catholic missionary, Societas Verbum Divini). Now I hope I can see similar images on my PC after almost half a century later.
That Dan doesn't have a better opinion of the CSB disappoints me but not in an angry way. I have invested a tidy sum in several CSB editions over the past year: Life Essentials Study Bible by Gene Getz, Tony Evans Study Bible - both authors of the study materials some of DTS's best, and of course the CSB Study Bible. I love that the CSB fills the sweet spot between the ESV and NIV. I can hand a copy to an 8 year old to an 80 year old and they'd both understand what they read without much difficulty. I think of the readability of CSB as the NLT on the Keto diet - every bit as clear using fewer words to say the same thing. 🙂 I can't argue with his translations choices for their categories. I can't remember why I gave up on the NRSV. When that first arrived in the Life Application Bible, I was pleasantly surprised by how it read. So smooth. Oh well.
The NET Bible is unnecessarily paraphrastic...I get the impression that the translators were always striving above all to sound as unlike the Tyndale tradition as possible. The notes are sometimes good, many times tedious and repetitive and state the obvious in several different ways. However in terms of layout the hardcover NET Full Notes edition is a masterpiece. That said, it's the Cambridge KJV-RV Interlinear, the NKJV and NASB for me, regardless of academic opinion.
It's striving for accuracy. Many of even modern Bibles will try to keep the same word order of the KJV even if it's not right. The NET and other translations out now are striving to be accurate and ignore tradition.
Exactly, "word for word" doesn't mean "same meaning" in the new language the words are translated to. I don't see how people find it hard to understand.
@@thetruthapologetics879 Thats not the problem. Once you introduce this heavy interpretational element in a translation, it becomes difficult to ascertain when a translator is potentially going overboard. All translation is interpretation, but some interpret more than others. A lot more than others. A better idea would be to use footnotes to either highlight what a word literally means, or to "interpret" it (in the footnotes) what it likely means. This is already done to some extent, but needs to be done more rather than make changes in the text that dont directly reflect in the originals. For instance: in the town and the city example, a two word footnote would have suffices however the text read. Some idioms just cannot be translated literally, but those are exceptions. Also, dont forget that some translators actually want to make the gospel more "palatable", and that affects the way they interpret the text. This is why many advocate a more literal translations for study purposes. This does not eliminate the problem but sure does reduce it.
I like the NET because of its apparatus. I would never buy an NET just for reading - but for study - I think its one of the best Bible products out there.
@@jamesmccloud5166 The literal words we need is to understand definitions and deeper meaning and cultural meaning, other than that often the interpretation expresses intended context correctly. Of course exceptions are there...
"This is why many advocate a more literal translations for study purposes. " The idea of using a word-for-word is not to merely understand what the text says and leave it at that, but rather, to encourage to learn what the phrasing means by doing a more thorough study on it (likely using other resources). If one is only stuck with, say, the NASB and no other resource, the NASB will not be as useful to him as if he used the NASB as a starting point to get deeper in the text. For casual reading - I find the KJV or the ESV second to none. The NASB or the NKJV is probably not the best translation for devotional reading - at least for those not used to it.
I find it ironic that a guy with Daniel’s credentials would give negative reviews to the NKJV and to the NASB while at the same time give a positive review to the Massage Bible and the Passion Bible. That makes no sense as those two I wouldn’t even use for toilet paper…It just goes to show you that no matter how big the man is their opinion is just that, an opinion. I’ll stick to my Schuyler Quentel NKJV for my daily reader and funny thing is, my go to deep study Bible is the NASB Brick! I still appreciate Dan Wallace and all his great works.
I think it wise to look at the translators themselves and their philosophies and beliefs to help guide you on your selection of Bible translation. Example: Did the translators believe in the miracles of the Bible?
Bout to buy a NET! Thank you, God for Mr. Wallace! Thank you for giving him the want and ability to educate your Church on your Word. Thank you Mr. Wallace i have never enjoyed a book study so much. You made it clear which book was for which purpose you wanna execute which is a big help as I have been wondering which version wouod be best for study and recall.
Dan looks down on two of my most favorite translations: the NASB and the NKJV. And he ups the NIV - the most criticized popular English translation for its egalitarian bent. I am no scholar, and when I see a bunch of scholars who praise a translation, while others (usually Pastors and theologians) express serious reservation against it - its kinda confusing...
Know that the NIV is very good in conveying things in easy to understand Modern English because it's a paraphrasing/"Dynamic Equivalency" as is the NASB althouu the NASB is more literal [ word-for-word ] but both uv their NTs are, as well as all modern versions of the NT, lacking over 6,200 words. Bruce Metzger and friends are wrong; soundly proven by the Eastern Orthodox Church's statement* and Justin Martyr quoting Matthew 5:44 as it is found in the Byzemtine Text-type used by them and the English translations uv the 1500's and the KJV (+ NKJV). *“Our Church holds the infallible and genuine deposit of the Holy Scriptures, of the Old Testament a true and perfect version, of the New the divine original itself.” - the “Encyclical of the Eastern Patriarchs” (AD 1848), a reply to the epistle of Pope Pius IX, "To the Easterns". St. Justin Martyr (AD 100-165) (Dialogue with Trypho, 71-73) and St. Irenaeus (AD 130-210) (Against Heresies, 3.21.1) stated that the scribes deliberately removed, altered or distorted the Messianic verses in their Scripture. The New Testament has approximately 250 direct quotations of Old Testament verses. Ninety percent of the quotations agree with the Septuagint but the majority disagree with the Masoretic Text. meaning Also to know, the NETS translation of the Greek Old Testament / Septuagint ~ Seventy is a fraud : based on the NRSV Masoretic Text hidden in Septuagint relatively superfluous words.
Ted Bruckner True easier to read but if it’s inaccurate then what??? I’m not saying anything about the NIV or any other translation I’m just making an a point here. Readability it’s not always more accurate.
Mike Licona I am Romania. I would like you to come to Romania and see that I am not lying to you. God bless you. for the work you do. I grew up in an orphanage, and last year I had fibroid surgery. I don't have the financial strength to go to the dentist. I pray to God to help me with my teeth. Please if you can help me, God bless you
I also grew up with the old KJV and still read it but for study I prefer the Revised Standard Version but as it's out of print, I use and recommend the NRSV. To each their own.
Same here! I feel like the NKJV is the easiest for me to memorize, but I do really enjoy the way the ESV phrases a lot of verses. Even though it's a looser translation, I like the NLT for devotional reading sometimes too.
2 Timothy2 :15 Make every effort to present yourself before God as a proven worker who does not need to be ashamed, teaching the message of truth accurately
I grew up reading from the kjv but stopped reading it when I started taking classes and seminars. I started leaning towards the NKJV in my daily reading. The TLV is one of my favorites today.
Love Dan and love listening to his debates and lectures. Laughed out loud in the middle when he said he didn't prefer the NKJV and NASB... the two bibles I have and read from! Doh!
I noticed that as well. I actually like the NASB. I much prefer Deut. 22:28 in NASB over the NIV which I think creates confusion. However, I very much appreciate the notes the NET bible adds to it.
I love all versions of the Word, the truth comes through, and mainly read NIV. Jesus walks with me daily through the Holy Spirit who is with me and leading me. I also want to say that I love the Passion Translation. I do. It's rich.
@Hdjd Udjsjwb Well Bill Mounce has been involved in two, both the ESV and the NIV. Two translations with different philosophies so he can have much to say.
@@BB-bs7hmYou have no clue what you're talking about. All of the newer translations are translated from the original Greek and Hebrew manuscripts. It's not as if newer translations are being created by using older translations until the original meaning is lost. The original manuscripts are used to create a new translation. The main reason there are so many translations is because of copyright issues.
To show your own translator bias, the NET translates MT 16:27 "For the Son of Man "will come" in the glory of the Father" etc. But the Greek actually says "For the Son of Man "is about to come" [3195] in the glory of the Father" etc. The time statement is left out because of futuristic translator bias.
I love this man and his knowledge is phenomenal. But I am having trouble reading one Bible let alone having several translations! Where do these people find the time? Do they not sleep? So impressed. And yes I also covet his library.
@@craigime Because it is a very big book. I am not talking about casual reading but studying and meditating and applying it to life. It takes a whole lifetime so I am told. Thanks for your reply.
@@reksubbn3961 "so I am told" so you never tried it yourself? I study the Bible daily and I've read through it several times. Saying "it's a very big book" is just an excuse. There's no way your that busy that you couldn't have read through the Bible at least one time in your entire life
The CSB/HCSB is not slanted for Southern Baptists. It's true that the Southern Baptists commissioned it. But they did it so they could quote from a modern translation without the necessity of constantly obtaining formal permission in all their publications. They didn't do it to make points for themselves. I grew up with the KJV and when I quote scripture from memory it's usually KJV. I like the NKJV because of its familiar feel while updating the grammar, including the verb endings, because our language doesn't stand still. Words change their meanings over time, and the vocabulary needs to be updated. And yes either version needs footnotes where the TR may differ - however slightly - from the texts underlying newer translations. When I was in college 1969-73 I started using the New English Bible for its readability, but I also used the 1971 edition of the NASB when it came out for comparison because the NEB attracted a lot of critics. A few years ago I purchased a Quartercentenary Edition of the 1611 KJV, which is a facsimile with odd spellings and fancy artwork for the first letter in each verse. It contains an essay by the British academic scholar Gordon Campbell. Professor Campbell spoke in my city about the history of English bible translations, so I got his autograph in my copy. He smiled and said "I see you have the real thing." I remember one time when I attended an adult Sunday school session when a guy spoke up denying the deity of Christ based on the failure of capitalizing personal pronouns for Jesus in the KJV. That was a new objection for me. I had to research that later. When the KJV came out, we hadn't developed a general custom of capitalizing personal pronouns for deity in English, so their absence doesn't prove anything.
The Recovery Version with notes by Witness Lee is the most spiritually mourishing and enlightening study Bible translation I have ever seen. I also like Darby's New Translation and the 1901 American Standard.
I think a word-for-word translation can be helpful in bringing the reader closer to the author, as long as its accompanyed with proper explanation of the context. Knowing that the ancient author refurs to pregnancy as "having it in the belly" and reading them refer to it that way gives me a feeling of intimacy that is lost when translations strive for readability. A literal teanslation also keeps the context at the front of your mind. You're constantly aware that you're reading a translated text from a far removed time, which could help remind the reader to think more deeply about what the author is trying to say.
Originally as a Catholic, I began to read the KJV in High School (1960's). Shakespeare - Old English. Later, I would get the Spirit Filled - NKJV for Study late 1990's. I added the NIV Study. Have all three today. 10,000 Characters KJV -30,000 + Characters of English from Shakespeare. It all stems from Tyndale. I've heard before about a good study Bible - NET. Thanks.
I really enjoyed this conversation. I read the KJV Bible, I was recently told that I should get the ESV study Bible. What do you think? Thank you so much.
The CSB is a revision of the HCSB lol. Also, both the NET and the NIV are their own translations though now revised from themselves from earlier revisions.
@@aperson4057 I think Peters point was that the HCSB was a fresh from the ground up translation, not using a prior English translation as a base text to work from. the CSB may be a revision, but its from is own line, rather than being a revision of another English line of translation..
I love to see Mr. Wallace in videos when he engages people about the text(s). I first saw him in the Ankerberg KJV only discussion when Mr. James White still had hair and a lot of it😁
Great discussion. I don't know any pastor who has not been asked what the best translation is. I started out with the KJV but as a teen did not find it readable. (I didn't find Shakespeare readable back then either.) I bought a New Testament in Modern English by J.B. Phillips and loved it. But that was only a New Testament. I graduated to the NASV in mid-life but found it inelegant. Then to the NIV. That is the Bible I carry around and read when I read a paper and ink Bible. But I discovered the NET Bible a few years ago and use it for study and to quote from for my blogs. Love the notes. I also use the World English Bible. It seems quite accurate to the Greek and it is in the public domain, so I can use it in my study guides.
I would love, Love, LOVE to see how Dan Wallace shows Jehovah's Witnesses the deity of Christ through their own translation. Please do a video on that!
Jesus is not almighty God, jesus said at mathew 4:10 Then Jesus said to him: “Go away, Satan! For it is written: ‘It is Jehovah your God you must worship, and it is to him alone you must render sacred service
At Credo House you'll find plenty of Wallace's teaching, as well as Understanding Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses - Digital Audio. I'm not advertising, just informing.
I like the Nkjv prose and comparison to tradition, but just purchased a net translation with full notes. My Nkjv study bible has good notes on what some of the old idioms mean (you get used to thinking about a different time/place/culture), and many many notes on the differences between different original manuscripts, which is very helpful. Will be interesting to compare the notes between the two versions where they discuss the same translation choices).
I love Mike Licona (amazing work on the resurrection of our Lord) and I love Dan Wallace (especially his dialogue and debates with Bart Ehrman). Two things concerned me from the dialogue here, however. (1) at 23:20, Dan says that the Mormons are producing their own translation and thus seek not to be so "caustic in their viewpoints." I happen to be one of those dastardly "Mormons," and I also happen to be employed by said Church as a religious educator. I am very much in the know as to what those nefarious Mormons are up to and I will say, that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not producing their own translation. We use the KJV traditionally, but I also like the NET and NRSV. Recently, a BYU professor of NT and Greek produced his translation, but not endorsed by the Church. (2) The deeper issue for me is if Dan is so misinformed about something I have first-hand knowledge of, what else is he sloppy about? I listen to Dan Wallace because of his wealth of insight regarding the integrity of the NT text and preservation. What other assertions has he cavalierly thrown about without sound grounding? "Trust but verified" seems to be the order of the day here. I love your work Mike Licona and Dan Wallace!
Another Latter-day Saint in this comment section? Exciting to me! I feel that sadly most evangelicals even people such as Dan Wallace tend to not have the best understanding of the Church, purely because of the antagonistic view they have towards us. I feel regarding NT text and preservation he is less likely to make bad assertions due to his amount of knowledge on them. (I was a religious studies major at a non-BYU school too if it makes any difference).
Joseph Smith did attempt to change the KJV with an inspired re-interpretation. He claimed that the scriptures needed to be corrected from an LDS perspective. In addition, Dan is referring to a translation “about to come out”… I am not LDS but enjoy learning about its history; the LDS church is not afraid to make changes to anything to meet the times if they are too caustic. (Like changing the rule on black men being allowed in the priesthood).
@@MyLifeInTheDesert First of all, thanks for the perspective and comment. It is refreshing. While I love and respect both Mike Licona and Dan Wallace, I was a bit perturbed at how misinformed the comment was regarding the LDS Church. If he can’t get that detail right for which I am informed, what other details are just as misinformed for which I do not have an eye or ear to catch? Getting the information right at the source is fundamental historiography. The spring water is best upstream before the cattle have had a chance to wade through it. Thomas Wayment, a BYU scholar, recently came out with his own translation but that translation is not endorsed or even used by the LDS Church. Regarding the Joseph Smith Translation, Joseph began that work in June 1830 but was never entirely completed though some of the translation can be found in current footnotes and appendices of LDS scripture or in privately published volumes. Joseph Smith never viewed that work as something necessary to be made “from an LDS perspective.” In fact, “LDS” didn’t exist until 1838 (D&C 115). Joseph wrote, “I resumed the translation of the scriptures, from sundry revelations which had been received, it was apparent that many important points, touching the Salvation of man, had been taken from the Bible, or lost before it was compiled.” (The Joseph Smith Papers, www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/history-1838-1856-volume-a-1-23-december-1805-30-august-1834/189). Regarding the LDS Church adapting or making changes that “are too caustic,” I’m not sure what you mean. I do know that while the doctrine of Christ is eternal and unchanging, practices continue to change relative to the circumstances of the day. The same is true of Levites holding priesthood as opposed to any of the other tribes, circumcision, preaching to the Gentiles pre-Acts 10 vs. after, etc. Best to you!
@@juliannalane9907 Aye! On one level, I understand the antagonism. In my adolescent years, I assumed Catholics loved darkness more than light because of all the candles everywhere. For crying out loud, turn the lights on! I assumed evangelicals had more zeal than knowledge, and non-denominationalists were nothing more than glorified middle-schoolers at lunch who could not choose between the bologna sandwich and the chicken fried steak. It wasn’t until I read some Tolkien, Chesterton, and Lewis that I started to question my assumptions. Like Bill and Ted, I began to realize that “strange things are afoot at the Circle K!” Every religious system looks strange to those on the outside. My beef here is that great scholars understand that principle so when scholars speak of a religious tradition, they ought to at least know the difference between good historiography and a bad hysterectomy. Best to you!
While if pressed, I would choose the "critical text" over the textus receptus, I still wish the Evangelical Community wasn't so critical and dismissive of the textus receptus. The NKJV is commendable in many ways, one of those being the footnotes which reference the other manuscripts, a really valuable tool for study.
CSB is superior to the NIV. CSB is tighter translation than the NIV and a smoother read than the ESV. Disappointed that it was brushed aside and somewhat dismissed.
I have an embarrassing amount of translations and have read from each. I spent some time with both NIV2011 and the CSB2020 and the ESV2016. Out of the 3, the CSB really was my favorite in how well it translates and readability. I like using the CSB202, NASB1995 and the NKJV together if I will be studying and even just reading, just to see the differences. Also, I the CSB2020 is not a denominational translation from what I have been studying. I still bring out my ol' HCSB2012 from time to time, just because it has some great work too.
0:00 Categories
3:04 What makes an Accurate Bible
5:30 What Type is the ESV?
8:06 NIV vs. NLT
9:05 The NET as a Study Bible
11:02 Thoughts on the CSB
12:25 Which is Best for Beauty? Accuracy? Readability?
16:13 Dan's TOP 5 PICKS
Study and Accuracy: NET
Readability & Accuracy: NIV
Understated Elegance: ESV
Rich Wording: KJV & REB (1989)
Ecumentical: NRSV
17:00 What Type is the ASV?
18:45 NRSV and Gender Neutrality
22:33 NKJV is the Least Favorite?
24:26 Not a Big Fan of the NASB?
27:38 What is the Favorite Overall Bible?
28:06 Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts
34:34 Closure
Thank you!
NRSV is not in accord with LA and is NOT Vatican approved
Fails to acknowledge the bad translation of Tyndall and almost every English Bible that improperly translate genitives. Gal 3:22 … so that the promise from out of Jesus Christ’s faithfulness might be given to the faithful - not: so the promise by the faith of Jesus Christ might be given to the believer. Ek is not “by” and the Greek never intends the faith of Jesus Christ but Jesus Christ’s faithfulness, nor does it intend believer rather than faithful
The hero of the comments section 👍
Thank you for this!
According to Dan Wallace in the video:
* He has three criteria in Bible translation: accuracy, readability, elegance.
* For accuracy as "the translator's translation": NET
* For accuracy with readibilty: NIV
* For understated elegance: ESV
* For elegance with "rich words" and that is "literary": KJV and REB
* For ecumenical (not one of his three criteria but Wallace still mentioned it): NRSV
Thanks for summarising this brother 😀
NIV is most controversial and subtly anti-God along with some others. It not a true translation but a corruption of the original. Don't put if pass Satan to be involved in bible translation under the deception of making it it plainer. God is his own intetpreter.
NIV for accuracy? Yikes.
@@properpropaganda9831 I kinda feel you on this one; however, the NIV is fairly accurate to what the Greek was trying to convey, though not always.
Wonder why he doesn't mention the CSB? That's a great bible! Very clearly written.
I have about 50 Bible translations in my house. In my family, I am the keeper of our family Bibles. I always dream that one day when Jesus assigns us work in heaven, maybe He will consider me for a position in the heavenly library. Thanks for posting this.
modern bible versions are based on the Alexandrian manuscripts (less then 50 manuscripts, mainly codex Vaticanus and codex Sinaiticus) that alter and omit many verses and even contradict each other. The AV/KJV however, is based on the traditional majority text from Antioch; 6000+ manuscripts that all agree in their reading.
Modern versions are corrupt.
How nice it would be if the Bible had been correctly translated by a prophet of God with NOTHING left out, to begin with, rather than having dozens of different translations!!
Hope the whole thing wasn't just made up.
One will never listen to Dr. Wallace without learning. I thank God for his life, gifts, and contribution to the church.
Yes you are correct David, I absolutely love listening to this guy, and I always learn something.
"Elegance, accuracy, and readability". Brilliant! Thanks for this.
NET really grows on you the more you read it and investigate the textual notes and reasons for translating certain ways. I love how if there are discussions about a text, it just presents the issues from both sides and the reasons they went a particular way. I must be a nerd, because I find it enlightening and fun!
It doesn't
Net bible: John 1:18 No one has ever seen God. The only one, himself God, who is in closest fellowship with the Father, has made God known.
ESV: John1:18 No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known.
KJV: John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared [him].
NASB: John1:18 No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him.
Trinity? No Trinity? Depends on which text you desire? Best bible translations? No such thing.
You are correct.
I SO appreciate Dan's Expertise. I heard him at a conference in Dallas in my 20's. He's slowly morphing me into an Apologists.😁😊
That is a FABULOUS LIBRARY! I want one just like it. Great discussion as well!
Me too!❤️
I'm in love with Dan's bookcases!
It's like the beauty and the beast's library
I know right 😂
Totally awesome
Maybe it's a green screen =)
Truly done right. 👌
I have one of those green Living Bibles from the 70’s!!!! I’m 67, grew up on the RSV through high school years and my catechism class. Moved to the NIV for many years…and now I’m in love with the KJV. I just naturally translate it in my mind as I read it. Just elegant and direct to the point without a bunch of extra words.
This is my story, also. The only difference is that I never had an RSV. I let go of my Living Bible in the late 80's when a friend showed interest in the Bible. It was a sacrifice at the time I remember! I always return to KJV.
same
Yeah, I had one too. I bought it a a K-Mart. It was wonderful.
CSB, ESV, NIV, KJV are the translations I read and memorize from
modern bible versions are based on the Alexandrian manuscripts (less then 50 manuscripts, mainly codex Vaticanus and codex Sinaiticus) that alter and omit many verses and even contradict each other. The AV/KJV however, is based on the traditional majority text from Antioch; 6000+ manuscripts that all agree in their reading.
Modern versions are corrupt.
The thing about the KJV is that it is THE titan of English literature. Even Richard Dawkins has said "any native English speaker who doesn't know a word of the King James is verging on the barbaric." It may not be the most accurate, but it is the definitive volume of the English language and culture for nearly half a millennium. Everyone with English as a first language regardless of faith should own one.
It is the most accurate your problem is that it doesn't use the corrupt critical text
The KJV is a bad transition of the original Hebrew. It’s an English translation of a Greek translation of the original Hebrew. It’s a copy of a copy of a copy.
@@susanstein6604modern bible versions are based on the Alexandrian manuscripts (less then 50 manuscripts, mainly codex Vaticanus and codex Sinaiticus) that alter and omit many verses and even contradict each other. The AV/KJV however, is based on the traditional majority text from Antioch; 6000+ manuscripts that all agree in their reading.
Modern versions are corrupt.
I immediately paused the video and went and bought the NET Bible. Couldn't even wait to the end of the video. Looked up a few verses and Shazam. It's wonderful. There still is no replacement for knowing the Greek words but this is good.
I did also 😊
@@billyr9162 Understanding the Greek words is merely the starting point of translation. A greater challenge arises when deciding between interpreting a meaning within its historical and grammatical context versus a direct, word-for-word Greek translation. It becomes even more complex when trying to present these ideas in a way that's readable and relatable for modern audiences. Translation is a demanding task best handled by highly skilled experts, which I feel has been done well in various translations.
I prefer to read a trusted choice (my daily driver) while relying on comparison of various other translations along with an Interlinear, word dictionary and other tools, when in tough spots. I feel by reading the various translations that it usually suffices to assist my understanding for the most part, for a normal read.
My Greek is way too weak to trust, although I'm working on it.
@@SpaceCadet4Jesus keep working on it. Sounds like you got a long way to go
@@billyr9162 I'm likely further along in my Greek than you are, but yes I still have a long way to go. Like I said even knowing Greek isn't going to make me into a translator.
@SpaceCadet4Jesus sound like you have a long way to go. Keep gong
He’s right about the Revised English Bible. It’s beautiful and vastly underrated and under-appreciated. It’s a shame it isn’t more well-known. I wish Cambridge published it in more reader-friendly editions.
In love with the footnotes in the NET Bible. 🧐🧑🎓. Beginning of a NEW era.
Not really
Thank you for this. I have learned quite a bit from Dr. Daniel Wallace. It's always a joy to learn about different translations and textual criticism. God bless both of you for all that you do.
"Reinventing Jesus" is one of my favorite books
@@Johnny-mz9ot I haven't read that one. I'll have to check it out.😎
I love the NET Bible. I also love to read the CSV and NKJ. I also think it is so important to read different versions.
I got a NET after watching this and I have learned so much from it! Thank you!
PS I served on the Johannine writings translation group for the New American Bible revised translation, which should come out in a few years. We sought to be consistent in word translations overall, and, when the text was ambiguous in Greek, we left it so in the English rendering. Some really nice diction, I feel.
Thanks for bringing that to our attention, Paul! I wish we would have covered the NAB. Very glad to know you were involved with it and I will be sure to get a copy for my own use!
@@MikeLiconaOfficial thanks so much! And, the Jerusalem Bible is also a fine translation--even for a Quaker, here. (smile) I really loved the NASB in college BECAUSE it was so close to the Greek. I'm also getting Henry Cadbury's works out into a new book--fun hearing him (and a foreword by Bruce Metzger before he passed away) on RSV-project reflections. One essay is on "revision-after-revision".
@@paulanderson2410 That sounds very interesting, Paul!
How does the new NAB treat gender-neutral language (it has been a criticism of previous editions)? Will the new translation use the Grail Psalms or will they use their own translation? Thx
@@MikeLiconaOfficial Catholic here. I hope the new NABRE, whenever it comes out, is an improvement. The existing one is awful. The Vatican's Congregation for Divine Worship rejected it for use in the lectionary because of its extreme use of gender-neutral language. The prose also is not very good. (Classics scholar Anthony Esolen has been railing against if for years.) Plus, the study notes are heterodox in many places, and not written from the standpoint of a believer. Personally, in the US, I wish either the RSV2CE or the ESVCE was adopted for the lectionary. (Of course, the Douay-Rheims is the gold standard IMO. When it was used, people actually attended Mass.)
Thank Gentlemen for this podcast. This has given me much peace in the Bible translation i have chosen. Thank you. God-bless
CSB: "It's not a Southern Baptist only translation--there are some decent scholars who worked on it." I'm pretty sure that didn't come out the way Dr. Wallace intended it, but it was still the best laugh I've had in a long time!
Despite all they said, I like the NLT, NKJV, KJV, NASB and the Geneva Bible. My top 5. A must with me is readability and accuracy. I am not too concerned with the elegance side. Give it to me straight.
Straight? Try some interlinears… 🙂
It should be added that the KJV was also reactionary to the Geneva Bible.
Great talk btw.
modern bible versions are based on the Alexandrian manuscripts (less then 50 manuscripts, mainly codex Vaticanus and codex Sinaiticus) that alter and omit many verses and even contradict each other. The AV/KJV however, is based on the traditional majority text from Antioch; 6000+ manuscripts that all agree in their reading.
Modern versions are corrupt.
03:02 (Off-point comment here: “...paraphrastic...” I learned a new adjective today!)
16:30 On-screen Summary of Dan’s top picks.
18:00 Nice little translation tree.
You're a saint.
@@kc8ppo i second that
Thank you!
I found this video informative & helpful. Thank you! I enjoy using the NET (& it's notes) for sermon preparation. It's helpful to learn more here about the NET's background. Personally, I prefer the ESV to the NIV. I preached from the NIV for 7 years at the church where I previously served, then switched to the ESV 3 years ago. I prefer it for reading & preaching, one key area being that the ESV picks up imperfect tenses more often. Blessings from Australia.
And how about ESV in comparison to NASB95 or Legacy Bible?
@@MB-gd6be I highly regard the NASB95 & consult it for every sermon I prepare. I also consult the LSB now & then. But in the circles I move in here in Australia, I find very few people who use those translations, so I prefer to preach from the ESV. I only know one person here who uses the LSB. I do like how the LSB (& NKJV) use italics for extra words the translators have put in. That's one advantage they have over the ESV.
I love brother Dan, he has a lively sense of humor and his explanations are interesting.
Nkjv is my favorite. I do like the esv but it's nearly impossible not to see how translators read their theology into the translation at parts. Hebrews 12 is one instance. Verse 15 when the author says "lest anyone fall short of the grace of God" (nkjv) is a better translation than "see to it no one fails to obtain the grace of God"(esv). If you are just reading through these phrases might sound the same but If you look closer in study they have much different implications.
Nkjv renders a closer meaning based on the context of the passage. Also there is scholarly disagreement on the TR vs NA/UBS texts. The look on the gentleman's face on the left when the TR was mentioned was one of disdain.
That at a false version King James know nothing about it.
@@fransikajohn9005 not understanding your statement. Are you saying that the NKJV is a false translation? Just trying to clarify
King James is attached to the 1611 version because he authorised the translation and choose the scholarly translators of 1611. The NKJV was first published in 1982 with many changes not in agreement with the AKJV. It is a false impression to attach King James to it when it is different from the original. The scriptures cannot be updated like a science text. The AKJV is my choice, I glimpse at some of the others, the majority of them false. Translators do not interpret, they translate only as interpretation belongs to the Spirit. The believers must depend on God to understand his word, he is his own interpreter. There is a devious agenda behind many of the different translations in the Roman racist religion of Christianity eg. the NIV is religiously anti-God.
@@fransikajohn9005
Different languages don't directly translate with literal word for word, interpretation of context and intention is required to prioritize proper meaning for actualizing the accuracy of the delivery.
@@Geronimo_Jehoshaphat meaning ought not to change. That's Satan in man interfering with interpretation which belongs to God only.
I inherited my father’s edition of the Anchor Bible when he died. I had given him 30 some volumes one Christmas after I got my first real job and he purchased the rest. It is the work of around 800 scholars, Jewish, Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, Muslim, and secular. It tends to have about 2 lines of text and 2 pages of footnotes. When you get through it, you have a huge sense of accomplishment.
I can watch Daniel Wallace bible videos all day.
I love Dr. Wallace. 😊 And I generally agree with his analysis of the various Bible translations. But I'd only say he might consider looking again at:
1. CSB. I think the CSB is significantly different from the HCSB and I think it's mostly an improvement.
2. NASB. Specifically the NASB 2020, especially if he thinks the NASB 95 and 77 are too wooden (which I agree they are). The NASB 2020 is underrated. Of course, the NASB in all its incarnations is considered very accurate in the sense of being as transparent with the original biblical languages as is possible for a translation to be (similar to other so-called "literal" or formally equivalent translations like the LSB, LEB, KJV, NKJV, ESV). At the same time, the NASB 2020 is significantly more readable than previous NASB versions. I'd say the NASB 2020's readability is nearly right up there with the CSB and the NIV which are considered very readable, and the NASB 2020 is more readable than the ESV and most other "literal" translations (though the ESV has superior literary style and generally is written in higher register).
In short, I think the NASB 2020 balances both accuracy and readability in maximal ways. The NASB 2020 is perhaps closest to the CSB with its optimal equivalence philosophy of translation. In my view, the basic difference between the NASB 2020 and the CSB is that the NASB is more "literal" (i.e. formally equivalent) than the CSB, but the CSB is more readable (i.e. clear and natural) than the NASB 2020.
KJV may not be the height of modern scholarship, but it is the best for memorizing verses.
It is better show me one error.
@@mikemaid5350 check our Isaiah 40.3 in Hebrew and then compare that to the KJV. Why does the KJV say “The voice of him that cries in the wilderness…” when voice doesn’t have the definite article and there is no “of him” in the original Hebrew? Also it says that the voice is in the wilderness but the Masorah that the translators used doesn’t say the voice is in the wilderness…
@@mikemaid5350just one?
@@craigimeMathew 12:1... was there corn in Israel back then?
@@AdjectivesRGreaterThanPronouns did you reply to the right person?
I wish I could ask Mr. Dan and Mr. Mike about this new Berean Study Bible. I've been reading from it for about two years now, and I consider it my new favorite.
I have a three volume set that has 26 different versions/translations of the entire Bible contrasted & compared where there is a significant difference in the translation for any particular verse. It has been interesting to use. My main Bible is the NKJV, called The Open Bible Expanded Edition, 1983, and I have used it since the late 1980's. But...what really started opening my eyes and mind to the wonderful Bible was when I got my first Strong's Exhaustive Concordance and began looking up the Hebrew and Greek words as I read the verses. it has opened up a whole new world of scriptural study for me. I am wondering why using a good Concordance along with whatever translation of the Bible that one chooses to use was not mentioned? I enjoyed the interview...thanks..!!
Most likely due to the fact that just having a Strongs alone doesn't always provide the correct word especially in Greek. You have to parse the word in order to get the correct gender and even the meaning in some instances. I like a Strongs Concordance and it has its value no question but you have to dig more into the word meaning that is provided to get its true value.
@@rhyne9388 Yes, a lexicon is preferable to just Strong's. Also, Strong's has been, and is still being abused by overzealous people that don't understand that context is very important.
The purpose of Strong's was to show the reader the words BEHIND the KJV text. Not an exhaustive explanation of how those original words should be translated.
Read the preface and the explanations at the start of the Original complete Strong's. It is there if people only look.
Like the key Word Study Bible?
Love this man. May his tribe increase.
This was an excellent summary of things to consider and Dan's opinion is very worthwhile. Clearly he has a lot of knowledge on the topic.
I'd love to hear from other top Greek and Hebrew scholars on this issue.
I like that he affirmed the ESV as a good translation as I have come to the same conclusion, but without the depth and specificity of knowledge that Dan gives.
I'll have to spend more time including NET in my studies.
I absolutely love Robert Alter's Hebrew Bible (AKA Old Testament) translation. It is super faithful to the literary form and repeated words and phrases in the original language. It also has notes l
Indeed indeed. From a Jewish perspective, he made a fresh sense out of the Hebrew idioms, especially in Psalms.
I'm not as fond of Alter's notes as I am of his translation. Alter certainly is a fine literary scholar, but he's largely beholden to a more secular Judaism and his biblical and theological notes often reflect that. However the linguistics portions of his notes are valuable to read. And his Hebrew Bible translation as a whole is pretty good.
For example, I enjoyed his rendering of Ecclesiastes, especially the Hebrew word "hebel" or "hevel" which is so central to understanding the meaning of the book and which many English translations fail to capture. In fairness, it is as elusive as chasing the wind to translate "hebel" into English! In any case, Alter translates "hebel" literally as "mere breath". I think that's probably the best we can do. Or something similar like "vapor" or "mist" would work as well (e.g. Ardel Caneday's article on translating it as "vapor" and Jason DeRouchie's article on translating it as "enigma").
I like what Dr. Wallace says about the NIV at around the 14 minute mark about both readability and accuracy. I used to preach from translations like the NASB and KJV, but I recently changed to the NIV because it is just a terrific blend of both. If I'm preparing a sermon or lesson I'll look at several translations but when I'm actually reading the text publically, I read from the NIV. If there happens to be something about the NIV in the text I'm reading from that I disagree with then I can bring it out and give my reasons why I think another translation is better. Overall, I think the NIV is the best for public reading, not too dynamic but not too wooden either.
The NIV 2011 version is the best and most up to date Bible for study and preaching. I do compare to the actual Greek text when in the NT, and look up key Hebrew words as well.
I don't care for the NIV, but I will say that the 2011 edition removed some of its main problems and generally made it more accurate. No more "the smallest of _your_ seeds" nonsense.
KJV, NKJV and NASB are my favorites. (KJV or NKJV only when reading Psalms. The majesty and beauty of olde English is incomparable to newer, wordier, 'more accurate' versions)
the English translation(s) of the Septuagint (Greek Old Testament) but not one called NETS is crucial to use and not to use the current (and only ) Hebrew text if you want the truth and joy of reading.
I agree. No other version, no matter how good, can compare to reading the Psalms in the KJV and NKJV.
The KJV is not "Olde English "
Dr. Wallace has the coolest library!
I wish mine required a ladder!
Very helpful. I learned a ton from his intermediate greek book (and sadly have forgotten most of it!). A little off topic, but I went and hunted down the reference at 15:14 on cultural literacy. I'm pretty sure he's talking about "Cultural Literacy: What Every American Needs to Know" by E. D. Hirsch.
I was curious about that too...but he said Alan bloom so perhaps he is referring to " the closing of the American mind"?
Thank you both. I assumed he must be talking about the book David mentioned, but then found the book Jane mentioned when I tried to look up Alan Bloom in connection with cultural literacy: glad to have my assumptions confirmed by others.
I primarily used the NASV for study. I've since moved to ESV. I'm VERY happy with it.
Yeah, the ESV is second best to being the most literal albeit's NT is lacking over 6,200 words and it has the MT OT like the KJV, etc.- all English Bibles; not the OT text the Church has preserved.
St. Justin Martyr (AD 100-165) (Dialogue with Trypho, 71-73) and St. Irenaeus (AD 130-210) (Against Heresies, 3.21.1) stated that the scribes deliberately removed, altered or distorted the Messianic verses in their Scripture.
The New Testament has approximately 250 direct quotations of Old Testament verses. Ninety percent of the quotations agree with the Septuagint but the majority disagree with the Masoretic Text.
“Our Church holds the infallible and genuine deposit of the Holy Scriptures, of the Old Testament a true and perfect version, of the New the divine original itself.” - the “Encyclical of the Eastern Patriarchs” (AD 1848), a reply to the epistle of Pope Pius IX, "To the Easterns"
English Bibles's Masoretic Text OT text : it's not the text the (Orthodox) Church has preserved: actually it's a falsified and mutilated revised Hebrew text named "Masoretic" [ from "Masoret" meaning "bond, collar" ]. Decent English translations of the Greek Old Testament / Septuagint ~ Seventy exist ; but the NETS translation of the Greek Old Testament is a fraud : it's based on the NRSV Masoretic Text hidden in Septuagint relatively superfluous words.
To save time in seeing all i say is true you may see verses for comparison: 1) on archive.org - there search-bar : " mt vs lxx" ( i made it; contact me and I will send you the latest and improved version as PDF.) 2) And there's two charts online - one uv 25 NT quotes and their OT verses for comparison ; the other uv Proverbs - a 16 page chart - both on ecclesia . org .
God Bless.
Ted Bruckner This is fascinating stuff isn’t it? Most people couldn’t care less but, I think this subject is so interesting.
Ναζωραῖος You got to love textual criticism!
I like those too. I also like the Modern Literal Version. It's not nearly as popular of a translation and it's new testament only.
Ναζωραῖος how about the Biblica Hebraica?
Digitized library of Greek New Testament manuscripts --- that is extremely exciting !!
I "saw" some facsimiles of famous Greek and Hebrew bible manuscripts, back in 80's when I was a university student (it was founded by a Catholic missionary, Societas Verbum Divini). Now I hope I can see similar images on my PC after almost half a century later.
That Dan doesn't have a better opinion of the CSB disappoints me but not in an angry way. I have invested a tidy sum in several CSB editions over the past year: Life Essentials Study Bible by Gene Getz, Tony Evans Study Bible - both authors of the study materials some of DTS's best, and of course the CSB Study Bible. I love that the CSB fills the sweet spot between the ESV and NIV. I can hand a copy to an 8 year old to an 80 year old and they'd both understand what they read without much difficulty. I think of the readability of CSB as the NLT on the Keto diet - every bit as clear using fewer words to say the same thing. 🙂
I can't argue with his translations choices for their categories. I can't remember why I gave up on the NRSV. When that first arrived in the Life Application Bible, I was pleasantly surprised by how it read. So smooth. Oh well.
The NET Bible is unnecessarily paraphrastic...I get the impression that the translators were always striving above all to sound as unlike the Tyndale tradition as possible. The notes are sometimes good, many times tedious and repetitive and state the obvious in several different ways. However in terms of layout the hardcover NET Full Notes edition is a masterpiece.
That said, it's the Cambridge KJV-RV Interlinear, the NKJV and NASB for me, regardless of academic opinion.
Exactly. They go out of their way to not be "traditional "
It's striving for accuracy. Many of even modern Bibles will try to keep the same word order of the KJV even if it's not right. The NET and other translations out now are striving to be accurate and ignore tradition.
good stuff. "'word for word' and 'most accurate' are not the same question."
Exactly, "word for word" doesn't mean "same meaning" in the new language the words are translated to. I don't see how people find it hard to understand.
@@thetruthapologetics879 Thats not the problem. Once you introduce this heavy interpretational element in a translation, it becomes difficult to ascertain when a translator is potentially going overboard. All translation is interpretation, but some interpret more than others. A lot more than others.
A better idea would be to use footnotes to either highlight what a word literally means, or to "interpret" it (in the footnotes) what it likely means. This is already done to some extent, but needs to be done more rather than make changes in the text that dont directly reflect in the originals. For instance: in the town and the city example, a two word footnote would have suffices however the text read.
Some idioms just cannot be translated literally, but those are exceptions.
Also, dont forget that some translators actually want to make the gospel more "palatable", and that affects the way they interpret the text. This is why many advocate a more literal translations for study purposes. This does not eliminate the problem but sure does reduce it.
I like the NET because of its apparatus. I would never buy an NET just for reading - but for study - I think its one of the best Bible products out there.
@@jamesmccloud5166 The literal words we need is to understand definitions and deeper meaning and cultural meaning, other than that often the interpretation expresses intended context correctly. Of course exceptions are there...
"This is why many advocate a more literal translations for study purposes. "
The idea of using a word-for-word is not to merely understand what the text says and leave it at that, but rather, to encourage to learn what the phrasing means by doing a more thorough study on it (likely using other resources). If one is only stuck with, say, the NASB and no other resource, the NASB will not be as useful to him as if he used the NASB as a starting point to get deeper in the text. For casual reading - I find the KJV or the ESV second to none. The NASB or the NKJV is probably not the best translation for devotional reading - at least for those not used to it.
I find it ironic that a guy with Daniel’s credentials would give negative reviews to the NKJV and to the NASB while at the same time give a positive review to the Massage Bible and the Passion Bible. That makes no sense as those two I wouldn’t even use for toilet paper…It just goes to show you that no matter how big the man is their opinion is just that, an opinion.
I’ll stick to my Schuyler Quentel NKJV for my daily reader and funny thing is, my go to deep study Bible is the NASB Brick!
I still appreciate Dan Wallace and all his great works.
I would love to know Dr. Wallace’s opinion of the Berean Study Bible (BSB)
I have NET Bible 📖 😁 It is Amazing!
Also NASB, ESV, NKJV, and THE LIVING BIBLE...
We are so blessed to have these brothers. God bless yours ministry. Greetings from Romania.
Great interview Mike. Great topic and info. I’m a big fan of Dr Wallace’s work.
Beware! This is actually a 35 minute commercial for the NET Bible by one of its chief editors.
What are your thoughts on the NET?
I think it wise to look at the translators themselves and their philosophies and beliefs to help guide you on your selection of Bible translation. Example: Did the translators believe in the miracles of the Bible?
Bout to buy a NET! Thank you, God for Mr. Wallace! Thank you for giving him the want and ability to educate your Church on your Word. Thank you Mr. Wallace i have never enjoyed a book study so much. You made it clear which book was for which purpose you wanna execute which is a big help as I have been wondering which version wouod be best for study and recall.
Dan looks down on two of my most favorite translations: the NASB and the NKJV. And he ups the NIV - the most criticized popular English translation for its egalitarian bent. I am no scholar, and when I see a bunch of scholars who praise a translation, while others (usually Pastors and theologians) express serious reservation against it - its kinda confusing...
Know that the NIV is very good in conveying things in easy to understand Modern English because it's a paraphrasing/"Dynamic Equivalency" as is the NASB althouu the NASB is more literal [ word-for-word ] but both uv their NTs are, as well as all modern versions of the NT, lacking over 6,200 words. Bruce Metzger and friends are wrong; soundly proven by the Eastern Orthodox Church's statement* and Justin Martyr quoting Matthew 5:44 as it is found in the Byzemtine Text-type used by them and the English translations uv the 1500's and the KJV (+ NKJV).
*“Our Church holds the infallible and genuine deposit of the Holy Scriptures, of the Old Testament a true and perfect version, of the New the divine original itself.” - the “Encyclical of the Eastern Patriarchs” (AD 1848), a reply to the epistle of Pope Pius IX, "To the Easterns".
St. Justin Martyr (AD 100-165) (Dialogue with Trypho, 71-73) and St. Irenaeus (AD 130-210) (Against Heresies, 3.21.1) stated that the scribes deliberately removed, altered or distorted the Messianic verses in their Scripture.
The New Testament has approximately 250 direct quotations of Old Testament verses. Ninety percent of the quotations agree with the Septuagint but the majority disagree with the Masoretic Text.
meaning
Also to know, the NETS translation of the Greek Old Testament / Septuagint ~ Seventy is a fraud : based on the NRSV Masoretic Text hidden in Septuagint relatively superfluous words.
@@TedBruckner which translation would you recommend?
Ted Bruckner
I don't think the NIV is considered a paraphrase version though. It's just a translation. Something like the NLT is a true paraphrase.
@@brando3342 The NLT isn't a paraphrase (the updated version), the message bible is however
Ted Bruckner True easier to read but if it’s inaccurate then what??? I’m not saying anything about the NIV or any other translation I’m just making an a point here. Readability it’s not always more accurate.
Mike Licona I am Romania. I would like you to come to Romania and see that I am not lying to you. God bless you. for the work you do. I grew up in an orphanage, and last year I had fibroid surgery. I don't have the financial strength to go to the dentist. I pray to God to help me with my teeth. Please if you can help me, God bless you
I grew up hearing the old KJV, but my favorite is the NKJV. Having said that, lately I've been reading the ESV and so far I really like it.
I also grew up with the old KJV and still read it but for study I prefer the Revised Standard Version but as it's out of print, I use and recommend the NRSV. To each their own.
KJV, NKJV and ESV are all my translations of choice. I use all three.
Same here! I feel like the NKJV is the easiest for me to memorize, but I do really enjoy the way the ESV phrases a lot of verses. Even though it's a looser translation, I like the NLT for devotional reading sometimes too.
And the missing words and verses don't concern you in the ESV , surely you notice them gone .
@@nzbrotrev9028they're not missing
I started with the NIV some 40+ years ago, but have preferred the NAS the last 30 years. I read the RSV in the morning and the NAS at night.
Wow, Dan and Mike, this is greatly helpful;' thanks so much!!!
2 Timothy2 :15 Make every effort to present yourself before God as a proven worker who does not need to be ashamed, teaching the message of truth accurately
Love both these men, but I take Wallace’s NET as the best translation with skepticism. I mean he was the main editor on it. So it’s biased
What's net stand for? I m a nas girl and kjv
New English translation.
Haha, my thoughts exactly! 😅
I can already tell that the text size is a no go for me in that NET version. I'd rather have the notes in separate section or binding.
Yeah it's not the best
I grew up reading from the kjv but stopped reading it when I started taking classes and seminars. I started leaning towards the NKJV in my daily reading. The TLV is one of my favorites today.
Love Dan and love listening to his debates and lectures. Laughed out loud in the middle when he said he didn't prefer the NKJV and NASB... the two bibles I have and read from! Doh!
I noticed that as well. I actually like the NASB. I much prefer Deut. 22:28 in NASB over the NIV which I think creates confusion. However, I very much appreciate the notes the NET bible adds to it.
I like the NKJV more than the KJV and Douay-Rheims more too
There’s some political motives behind his comments.
This was the most based, practical, non-judgmental examination of the Scriptures I’ve seen. Thanks helping me pick a Bible!
Not everyone agree with Dan about NASB and NKJV!!!!!
Not everyone agrees about anything. That's not the point
I love all versions of the Word, the truth comes through, and mainly read NIV. Jesus walks with me daily through the Holy Spirit who is with me and leading me. I also want to say that I love the Passion Translation. I do. It's rich.
Two of my very favorite people. I so enjoyed these videos.
My NET is my favorite Bible, can’t wait for my Full notes edition
This is a Great discussion. I'd like to hear also Bill Mounce on this topic.
@Hdjd Udjsjwb Well Bill Mounce has been involved in two, both the ESV and the NIV. Two translations with different philosophies so he can have much to say.
@Hdjd Udjsjwb Certainly. But Dan Wallace was also involved in the NET. It's just good to hear and learn more from different perspectives.
your bible interpreted so many times..become not book of God after interpretation
@@BB-bs7hmYou have no clue what you're talking about. All of the newer translations are translated from the original Greek and Hebrew manuscripts. It's not as if newer translations are being created by using older translations until the original meaning is lost. The original manuscripts are used to create a new translation. The main reason there are so many translations is because of copyright issues.
A very enlightening and interesting conversation regarding which translations of the bible follow which procedures for what reasons. Bravo!
My high school latin teacher said a translation is like a woman if it is faithful it will not bebeautiful and if beautiful it will not be faithful
Excellent and probably sexist :)
Your teacher has problems
To show your own translator bias, the NET translates MT 16:27 "For the Son of Man "will come" in the glory of the Father" etc. But the Greek actually says "For the Son of Man "is about to come" [3195] in the glory of the Father" etc. The time statement is left out because of futuristic translator bias.
I love this man and his knowledge is phenomenal. But I am having trouble reading one Bible let alone having several translations! Where do these people find the time? Do they not sleep? So impressed. And yes I also covet his library.
Why are you having trouble reading one bible?
@@craigime Because it is a very big book. I am not talking about casual reading but studying and meditating and applying it to life. It takes a whole lifetime so I am told. Thanks for your reply.
@@reksubbn3961 "so I am told" so you never tried it yourself? I study the Bible daily and I've read through it several times. Saying "it's a very big book" is just an excuse. There's no way your that busy that you couldn't have read through the Bible at least one time in your entire life
The CSB/HCSB is not slanted for Southern Baptists. It's true that the Southern Baptists commissioned it. But they did it so they could quote from a modern translation without the necessity of constantly obtaining formal permission in all their publications. They didn't do it to make points for themselves.
I grew up with the KJV and when I quote scripture from memory it's usually KJV.
I like the NKJV because of its familiar feel while updating the grammar, including the verb endings, because our language doesn't stand still. Words change their meanings over time, and the vocabulary needs to be updated. And yes either version needs footnotes where the TR may differ - however slightly - from the texts underlying newer translations.
When I was in college 1969-73 I started using the New English Bible for its readability, but I also used the 1971 edition of the NASB when it came out for comparison because the NEB attracted a lot of critics.
A few years ago I purchased a Quartercentenary Edition of the 1611 KJV, which is a facsimile with odd spellings and fancy artwork for the first letter in each verse. It contains an essay by the British academic scholar Gordon Campbell. Professor Campbell spoke in my city about the history of English bible translations, so I got his autograph in my copy. He smiled and said "I see you have the real thing."
I remember one time when I attended an adult Sunday school session when a guy spoke up denying the deity of Christ based on the failure of capitalizing personal pronouns for Jesus in the KJV. That was a new objection for me. I had to research that later. When the KJV came out, we hadn't developed a general custom of capitalizing personal pronouns for deity in English, so their absence doesn't prove anything.
The Recovery Version with notes by Witness Lee is the most spiritually mourishing and enlightening study Bible translation I have ever seen.
I also like Darby's New Translation and the 1901 American Standard.
I think a word-for-word translation can be helpful in bringing the reader closer to the author, as long as its accompanyed with proper explanation of the context.
Knowing that the ancient author refurs to pregnancy as "having it in the belly" and reading them refer to it that way gives me a feeling of intimacy that is lost when translations strive for readability.
A literal teanslation also keeps the context at the front of your mind. You're constantly aware that you're reading a translated text from a far removed time, which could help remind the reader to think more deeply about what the author is trying to say.
Excellent, Mike and Dan! Thank you!
Originally as a Catholic, I began to read the KJV in High School (1960's). Shakespeare - Old English. Later, I would get the Spirit Filled - NKJV for Study late 1990's. I added the NIV Study. Have all three today. 10,000 Characters KJV -30,000 + Characters of English from Shakespeare. It all stems from Tyndale.
I've heard before about a good study Bible - NET. Thanks.
I LOVE Dan's library!!
Very good interview! Greetings from Finland!
I want Dan's library! what a great room!
Coveting is a sin brother....
I want a library of my own that looks just like that guys .😂
I really enjoyed this conversation. I read the KJV Bible, I was recently told that I should get the ESV study Bible. What do you think? Thank you so much.
Many translations are revisions of revisions of revisions. The CSB is its own translation.
The CSB is a revision of the HCSB lol. Also, both the NET and the NIV are their own translations though now revised from themselves from earlier revisions.
@@aperson4057 I think Peters point was that the HCSB was a fresh from the ground up translation, not using a prior English translation as a base text to work from. the CSB may be a revision, but its from is own line, rather than being a revision of another English line of translation..
What a learned man. Whom I will chose to ignore and continue reading and loving my wonderful NKJV lol.
Good video, but I will stick to my KJV. That's what I am most comfortable with. God Bless!
Love your comment. No conspiracy theories. Just an opinion. God bless!
I love to see Mr. Wallace in videos when he engages people about the text(s). I first saw him in the Ankerberg KJV only discussion when Mr. James White still had hair and a lot of it😁
John MacArthur's probably shaking violently after finding this video and witnessing the disrespect to the NASB.
When he earns a real PhD he can correct Wallace
🤣. Are you interested in the legacy standard Bible?
If people want a 1:1 word for word translation, find it and give it to them, then walk away. Doubtless, they won't be using it much.
Funny how new translations will say “brothers and sisters” but only “brothers” when it’s a bad thing
Interesting! Can you give me an example of this?
Where does the ESV do that?
Always clear explanations from Dr. Dan Wallace!
I am surprise he didn’t mention Youngs literal translation I’m talking about Word for Word translations.
What is the best bible for Catholics?
The Ascension bible is what were using for bible study.
Never knew about the NET BIBLE!
Poor name, @, but a great translation.
You're really going to enjoy it, @.
Great discussion. I don't know any pastor who has not been asked what the best translation is. I started out with the KJV but as a teen did not find it readable. (I didn't find Shakespeare readable back then either.) I bought a New Testament in Modern English by J.B. Phillips and loved it. But that was only a New Testament. I graduated to the NASV in mid-life but found it inelegant. Then to the NIV. That is the Bible I carry around and read when I read a paper and ink Bible. But I discovered the NET Bible a few years ago and use it for study and to quote from for my blogs. Love the notes. I also use the World English Bible. It seems quite accurate to the Greek and it is in the public domain, so I can use it in my study guides.
I would love, Love, LOVE to see how Dan Wallace shows Jehovah's Witnesses the deity of Christ through their own translation. Please do a video on that!
Jesus is not almighty God, jesus said at mathew 4:10 Then Jesus said to him: “Go away, Satan! For it is written: ‘It is Jehovah your God you must worship, and it is to him alone you must render sacred service
At Credo House you'll find plenty of Wallace's teaching, as well as Understanding Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses - Digital Audio. I'm not advertising, just informing.
@@GregoryAnderson trinity is a lie, jesus said the father is greater than I am
@@GregoryAnderson Thanks for the tip. Do you know if he addresses what I'm asking for?
@@AstariahJW I'm greater than my son in many ways. Does that mean he's not human? Does that mean he's less human?
I like the Nkjv prose and comparison to tradition, but just purchased a net translation with full notes. My Nkjv study bible has good notes on what some of the old idioms mean (you get used to thinking about a different time/place/culture), and many many notes on the differences between different original manuscripts, which is very helpful. Will be interesting to compare the notes between the two versions where they discuss the same translation choices).
I love Mike Licona (amazing work on the resurrection of our Lord) and I love Dan Wallace (especially his dialogue and debates with Bart Ehrman). Two things concerned me from the dialogue here, however. (1) at 23:20, Dan says that the Mormons are producing their own translation and thus seek not to be so "caustic in their viewpoints." I happen to be one of those dastardly "Mormons," and I also happen to be employed by said Church as a religious educator. I am very much in the know as to what those nefarious Mormons are up to and I will say, that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not producing their own translation. We use the KJV traditionally, but I also like the NET and NRSV. Recently, a BYU professor of NT and Greek produced his translation, but not endorsed by the Church. (2) The deeper issue for me is if Dan is so misinformed about something I have first-hand knowledge of, what else is he sloppy about? I listen to Dan Wallace because of his wealth of insight regarding the integrity of the NT text and preservation. What other assertions has he cavalierly thrown about without sound grounding? "Trust but verified" seems to be the order of the day here. I love your work Mike Licona and Dan Wallace!
Another Latter-day Saint in this comment section? Exciting to me! I feel that sadly most evangelicals even people such as Dan Wallace tend to not have the best understanding of the Church, purely because of the antagonistic view they have towards us. I feel regarding NT text and preservation he is less likely to make bad assertions due to his amount of knowledge on them. (I was a religious studies major at a non-BYU school too if it makes any difference).
Joseph Smith did attempt to change the KJV with an inspired re-interpretation. He claimed that the scriptures needed to be corrected from an LDS perspective. In addition, Dan is referring to a translation “about to come out”… I am not LDS but enjoy learning about its history; the LDS church is not afraid to make changes to anything to meet the times if they are too caustic. (Like changing the rule on black men being allowed in the priesthood).
@@MyLifeInTheDesert First of all, thanks for the perspective and comment. It is refreshing. While I love and respect both Mike Licona and Dan Wallace, I was a bit perturbed at how misinformed the comment was regarding the LDS Church. If he can’t get that detail right for which I am informed, what other details are just as misinformed for which I do not have an eye or ear to catch? Getting the information right at the source is fundamental historiography. The spring water is best upstream before the cattle have had a chance to wade through it.
Thomas Wayment, a BYU scholar, recently came out with his own translation but that translation is not endorsed or even used by the LDS Church. Regarding the Joseph Smith Translation, Joseph began that work in June 1830 but was never entirely completed though some of the translation can be found in current footnotes and appendices of LDS scripture or in privately published volumes. Joseph Smith never viewed that work as something necessary to be made “from an LDS perspective.” In fact, “LDS” didn’t exist until 1838 (D&C 115). Joseph wrote, “I resumed the translation of the scriptures, from sundry revelations which had been received, it was apparent that many important points, touching the Salvation of man, had been taken from the Bible, or lost before it was compiled.” (The Joseph Smith Papers, www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/history-1838-1856-volume-a-1-23-december-1805-30-august-1834/189).
Regarding the LDS Church adapting or making changes that “are too caustic,” I’m not sure what you mean. I do know that while the doctrine of Christ is eternal and unchanging, practices continue to change relative to the circumstances of the day. The same is true of Levites holding priesthood as opposed to any of the other tribes, circumcision, preaching to the Gentiles pre-Acts 10 vs. after, etc. Best to you!
@@juliannalane9907 Aye! On one level, I understand the antagonism. In my adolescent years, I assumed Catholics loved darkness more than light because of all the candles everywhere. For crying out loud, turn the lights on! I assumed evangelicals had more zeal than knowledge, and non-denominationalists were nothing more than glorified middle-schoolers at lunch who could not choose between the bologna sandwich and the chicken fried steak. It wasn’t until I read some Tolkien, Chesterton, and Lewis that I started to question my assumptions. Like Bill and Ted, I began to realize that “strange things are afoot at the Circle K!” Every religious system looks strange to those on the outside. My beef here is that great scholars understand that principle so when scholars speak of a religious tradition, they ought to at least know the difference between good historiography and a bad hysterectomy. Best to you!
I believe Dan said he thought the Mormons were coming out with a translation. I don’t think he was making a claim coming from certainty.
While if pressed, I would choose the "critical text" over the textus receptus, I still wish the Evangelical Community wasn't so critical and dismissive of the textus receptus. The NKJV is commendable in many ways, one of those being the footnotes which reference the other manuscripts, a really valuable tool for study.
CSB is superior to the NIV. CSB is tighter translation than the NIV and a smoother read than the ESV. Disappointed that it was brushed aside and somewhat dismissed.
It exists only so LifeWay could stop paying royalties to publish NIV Sunday School materials.
I used it last year. This year I picked up and ESV creeds and confessions. But I will probably return to the CSB next year.
I have an embarrassing amount of translations and have read from each. I spent some time with both NIV2011 and the CSB2020 and the ESV2016. Out of the 3, the CSB really was my favorite in how well it translates and readability. I like using the CSB202, NASB1995 and the NKJV together if I will be studying and even just reading, just to see the differences. Also, I the CSB2020 is not a denominational translation from what I have been studying. I still bring out my ol' HCSB2012 from time to time, just because it has some great work too.
Thanks for that it gives me a much more detailed understanding of the different versions from a scholarly perspective.
Dr. Licona, can you make subtitles available on all your video, please🙏?
Go to settings and turn on English auto generated captions. This a feature of You Tube.