By Dr. Eli Lizorkin-Eyzenberg.
Thank you to my friends and family for your support and prayers!
Choosing a Bible translation can feel like stepping into a vast library, each shelf lined with versions claiming to be the most authentic. For the average reader, the options are daunting. Which translation best reflects the original manuscripts? This question often arises from students, friends, and those exploring faith. The answer may surprise or even frustrate: no translation is perfect. Despite the expertise of scholars, the precision of their methods, or the sincerity of their intentions, every translation falls short of fully capturing the depth of the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts. However, this shouldn’t discourage you. Rather than seeking a flawless translation, the focus should be on finding one that is more faithful to the original while recognizing that true understanding requires personal engagement with the text.
The Two Broad categories.
English Bible translations can be broadly grouped into two categories: the King James Version (KJV) and all other modern translations. This distinction may seem overly simplistic, as it groups translations like the New International Version (NIV), English Standard Version (ESV), New American Standard Bible (NASB), and New Living Translation (NLT) together. However, this categorization highlights the unique place of the KJV while acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses of modern translations. The goal is not to dismiss the diversity of modern versions but to understand what sets the KJV apart and what it teaches us about reading the Bible faithfully.
The King James Version
Published in 1611, the King James Version is a towering achievement in both religious and literary history. Its language—eloquent, poetic, and rooted in the rhythms of Elizabethan English—has profoundly shaped not only religious practice but also the broader English-speaking world. Phrases like “the valley of the shadow of death” (Psalm 23:4) or “a time to weep, and a time to laugh” (Ecclesiastes 3:4) are embedded in our cultural consciousness. The KJV is more than a Bible; it’s a literary masterpiece. For a more profound look into its creation, God’s Secretaries by Adam Nicolson offers a compelling account of the scholars, poets, and divines who crafted it, revealing both their brilliance and the constraints of their time.
Yet, the KJV is not without flaws. Its translators worked with the best manuscripts available in the 17th century, but discoveries like the Dead Sea Scrolls have since provided older, more reliable texts. The KJV often prioritizes the elegance of English over the raw texture of the original Hebrew and Greek, introducing anachronisms that reflect 17th-century England rather than ancient Israel. Despite these shortcomings, scholars like Robert Alter argue that the KJV often captures the poetic tone and grandeur of the original texts better than many modern translations. Its willingness to embrace the strangeness and beauty of the biblical language gives it an enduring appeal, even if it stumbles in precision.
Modern Translations
Modern translations like the NIV, ESV, NASB, and NLT prioritize accessibility and clarity, aiming to make the Bible approachable for contemporary readers. While this is valuable, it often comes at a cost. The original Hebrew and Greek texts are vibrant, filled with concrete imagery and rhythmic wordplay. For example, Biblical Hebrew describes God’s anger as “nostrils flaring” (Exodus 15:8) or the earth “swallowing” rebels (Numbers 16:32). Modern translations frequently abstract these vivid images into straightforward, informational prose, resulting in a text that is clear but lacks the original’s vitality. The music—the rhythm, the physicality, the poetic cadence—is often lost, leaving a text that feels more like a summary than a living work.
Robert Alter’s Approach
Literary scholar Robert Alter offers a compelling alternative in his three-volume Hebrew Bible translation. A master of Hebrew, Alter sought to preserve the poetic and embodied nature of the original text, avoiding the tendency to prioritize ease of reading over fidelity. For instance, where the NIV might render “God was angry,” Alter retains the Hebrew idiom, such as “God’s nose burned.” This choice may feel unfamiliar to modern readers, but it reflects how the original audience would have experienced the text. Alter’s translation captures the cadence of Hebrew, from the sharp commands of Genesis to the lyrical laments of the Psalms. While his work is dense and less accessible for casual reading, it offers a closer glimpse into the literary and spiritual depth of the original.
The Path to Faithful Reading
So, which translation is the most faithful? The answer isn’t to choose one and consider the task complete. Each translation has strengths and weaknesses. The KJV offers unmatched literary beauty but carries historical inaccuracies. Modern translations provide clarity but often sacrifice the text’s poetic soul. Alter’s translation excels in preserving the Hebrew’s tone but may feel challenging for everyday use. The solution lies in engaging with multiple translations, comparing them, and, for those willing to go deeper, exploring the original languages.
You don’t need advanced training to do this. Tools like interlinear Bibles, Hebrew and Greek lexicons, or online resources can offer information about the original texts. The goal isn’t to become a scholar but to take responsibility for your study, much like Jacob wrestling with God (Genesis 32:24-30). By comparing translations and digging into the original languages, you enter into the living conversation between God and humanity that the Bible represents.
Conclusion
The quest for the perfect Bible translation is a journey, not a destination. Each version—whether the majestic King James, the clear NIV, or Alter’s poetic rendering—offers a unique window into God’s Word. Embrace the imperfections, for they invite you to wrestle with the text, to seek truth with heart and mind. Engage with multiple translations, explore the Hebrew and Greek, and let the Spirit guide your understanding. The Bible is not a static book but a living conversation, calling you to dive deeper, question boldly, and grow closer to God. Your pursuit of faithful reading is an act of worship, a testament to your desire for truth. So, open the pages, compare the words, and let the vibrant, poetic, and divine voice of Scripture transform you, one verse at a time.
Dear Dr Eli,
Thank you. I think that an IBC translation & commentary, New Testament, book by book, would be absolutely excellent, available, book by book, on Kindle, thank you for introducing me to it & IBC,
highr regards!
Shalom Yisrael Chai!
Sarah
Thank you, but this would be a gygantic task!
I often read the more English translation my dad studied the King James Bible everyday . I once shared the Bible I was using.
This was his reasoning for KJV. He was a deacon and a Sunday School Teacher of the Young Married
Men’s in ESV Baptist Church in Monticello, KY.
He said the KJV stayed the closest to the True translation of the Bible. Not only that, he declared the way it was written was like reading a lyrical poem. There was a more meaningful gist to the words as if they were intended as a gift to the reader.
Now how can you argue with that.
🙂 Its hard to do 🙂
Dear Pasty,
We all something to cherish. Many of us in Africa hold the KJV in high regard. However, as an exegetical, I find huge textual challenges in the KJV. It used very young manuscript. I find the lack of integrity by the translators to allowed themselves to substitute the Greek version of Yacob in the list of the disciples of Jesus with that of King James!
Modern translations use more up-to-date manuscripts (a lot improved in textual studies since KJV).
Dr David Daniel thinks about 80% of the King James Version is essentially Tyndale’s work. Have you heard this?
Scholars like Dr. David Daniel have noted that Tyndale’s work, particularly his translations of the New Testament and parts of the Old Testament in the 1520s and 1530s, heavily influenced the KJV, published in 1611. Tyndale’s vivid phrasing, clarity, and fidelity to original texts set a standard that later translators, including the KJV’s compilers, built upon. Estimates suggest that roughly 80-90% of the KJV’s New Testament and portions of the Old Testament retain Tyndale’s wording or style. This reflects Tyndale’s pioneering role in English Bible translation, despite his execution for heresy in 1536. The KJV, while refined and expanded, owes much to Tyndale’s groundwork, which shaped English religious language and literature profoundly.
Thank you for the quick reply! I recall one of Dr Daniels’ statements: “No Tyndale, no Shakespeare”…
SHALOM! IBC Talent is gygantic!! Nephilistic! Sons (women included) of God!
THANK YOU, SARAH!
Interesting read dr Eli, would be interesting to know your view regarding the Amplified and Passion Bible translations ? I find it helpful to compare different translations and use NKJV study Bible and Concordance to get a better understanding and context about scriptures.
I am not familiar with those, Emily,
No replies nec! Cyndi’s geography in every book would be awesome! Team Elohim!
She is very good.
Shalom! World wide respect for IBC is gigantic! shalom shalom!
Well said. Where in a single text one might be inclined to stagnantcy through the ignorant pride of believing that any or perhaps all of the concepts are fully understood, and unfamiliar perspective might provide new energy and interest.
Absolutely, your point resonates! A single Bible translation can sometimes limit our understanding, fostering overconfidence in grasping its full depth. Exploring diverse translations sparks fresh perspectives, rekindling curiosity and insight. It’s like viewing a gem from different angles—each turn reveals new facets. This approach not only enriches our engagement with the text but also challenges us to stay humble and open to deeper truths. Thanks for highlighting this!
Just a question…Why isn’t the 1599 Geneva Bible ever mentioned when one speaks of Biblical Texts/Versions?
I do have one in my varied collection. Was that not the Bible the Pilgrims and the Reformers used?
I understand the KJV was the result of the King’s extreame dislike of the Catholic Church, at the time. Can you speak to that or am I asking to many questions, here? 🙂
Also, what is your opinion of the One New Man Bible, as a version of scripture?
Thank you much
The 1599 Geneva Bible is less mentioned today because it was overshadowed by the King James Version (KJV) of 1611, which became the dominant English Bible. The Geneva Bible, produced by English Protestant exiles in Geneva during Mary I’s Catholic reign, was indeed the Bible of the Pilgrims and many Reformers. Its study notes, reflecting Calvinist theology, were highly influential but controversial, especially for their anti-monarchical undertones, which King James I disliked. His authorization of the KJV aimed to replace it with a version free of such notes and aligned with Anglican views, not just anti-Catholic sentiment. The KJV’s widespread adoption, royal endorsement, and literary impact led to the Geneva Bible’s decline, though it remained in use for decades. Its historical significance is undeniable, but its marginalization stems from political and theological shifts favoring the KJV.
I don’t know that Bible (One new man).
Thank you Dr Eli and for all the work you put in to write these articles. I appreciate it greatly. Blessings!
Thank you for your support and encouragement!
Excellent and informative article, Dr. Eli!
Thank you, David!
A well reasoned presentation of the hurdles encountered with translations. {Babel} I agree that an interlinear Bible is useful, more as a ‘marker’ than a translation. Find the passage one is interested in and then consult a good lexicon to study the word displayed as ‘original’. Strong’s is an excellent reference source for KJV in both Hebrew and Greek. Hebrew is a somewhat magical language; similarly spelled and/or pronounced words can add depth to a ‘spiritual’ study; Strong’s makes such cross references easier. For the source of Hebrew words, Brown, Driver, Briggs, Gesenius Lexicon is useful and uses the Strong’s numbering system for quick reference. KJV rates above all others in English but it is not a final authority by any means. {Babel}
Dr. Eli, thank you for your quick and informational response to my questions of the Geneva Bible and the KJV. And, should you ever get a chance to review or check out the ONMB-Jewish Roots & Power, I would appreciate your expertise and evaluation on this version at some point in the future, if possible.
Thanks Much,
Mike
Blessings!
I grew up with the KJV. Then I enjoyed the NASB. Recently, I have been reading the Tree of Life Version. This version has made scripture come alive for me. It feels like I am hearing actual conversations throughout the scriptures. I still use my other translations for comparisons. So often we read the familiar verses in the Bible and we overlook the nuances. The TLV has kept me hungering to read more. Thank you for all your teachings. They are so helpful!!
Enjoy!
Thank you Dr Eli.
I have often felt confused by English translations,not least, if you remember I made mention of a Shelite woman in response to one of your articles and you adjusted this to a shunamite woman. I don’t disagree but I was surprised on trying to research the Shelite in the scriptures that she doesn’t exist. What surprised me was one of those memories one keeps regarding word association,I.e. I can remember reading of a Shelite woman years ago and thinking at the time of her as a descendant of Shelah, but she has never existed.
Regards
I vagelly remember it 🙂
Thank you Dr Eli
On a poetic note, have you or any of your colleagues tried cross referencing the account of Abraham with the ancient myths of Greece, the Iliad for one or the poem of Ileon to give the proper title. The story is wild but translation of the names of the Greek heroes offers perhaps more insight and maybe some same events told through a different perspective.
Regards again
Thank you for your poetic inquiry! Cross-referencing the account of Abraham with ancient Greek myths, such as Homer’s Iliad (or the “Poem of Ilium”), is a fascinating endeavor. While no direct scholarly consensus links Abraham’s narrative in Genesis to the Iliad, both share archetypal themes—journeys, divine encounters, and covenantal struggles—that invite comparison. Translating names like Abraham (possibly “father of many” in Hebrew) to Greek equivalents, such as Agamemnon (“steadfast leader”), reveals linguistic echoes but no clear historical overlap. The Iliad’s focus on heroic conflict and divine intervention contrasts with Abraham’s monotheistic covenant, yet both reflect human grappling with destiny. Comparative mythology, like that explored by Joseph Campbell, suggests these stories may stem from shared cultural archetypes, retold through distinct lenses. For deeper insight, analyzing Ugaritic or Mesopotamian myths alongside both could uncover parallel motifs.
KJV wasn’t in Elizabethan style at all. It was in the language of the plowshare man.
Moreover the substitution the name Yacob with James as the name of one of Jesus’s disciple is bad exegesis.
Jacob never wrestled God but a man! No man in my African religion can wrestle with God. It is a scandal to translate that a mere mortal can wrestle with God. Never. Not so in Islam, not so in Judaism and even in pantheism
It is a topic for another time.
Thanks for this study. Good subject. I think having reference to many translations are helpful. It helps to cut down the many interpretations of scripture.
Dear Dr. Eli
I was reading John 17 and was using the CJB and the NMV and I was amazed that verse 6 was so deep. In every other version it reads “you gave them to me”, in the NMV it says ” you gave them me” what a sum total of the Father’s Love. Is this an acceptable rendering?
yes.
Beautifully put! I came to faith in Jesus through reading the KJV, the words penetrated my soul. Enough said!
Well… people have similar experiences with modern translation too :-), but I agree with you that KJV inspite of its many faults, still captures the poetry and spirit of Hebrew better than others!
Great text. Especially I liked the phrase – The Bible is not a static book, but a living conversation!
It went on my Facebook wall. HaShem bless you!
Thank you, Marino!
Your summary of the various ways the English translations hit and miss the original languages is good. One aspect that is not mentioned is that the KJV translators were very cognizant of how the translation “sounded” and “heard” when read from the pulpit. Modern translations do not come even close to that aesthetic, i.e. the syncopation between “oral” and “aural.”
Both translation philosophies for Formal Equivalence and Functional Equivalence are necessary. Of course, Formal Equivalence is the primary philosophy that should be used; but t he Functional Equivalence should be used when Formal Equivalence makes no sense at all.
Psalm 133:1 (MT), הִנֵּ֣ה מַה־טּ֭וֹב וּמַה־נָּעִ֑ים שֶׁ֖בֶת אַחִ֣ים גַּם־יָֽחַד׃
KJV
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is
For brethren to dwell together in unity!
ESV
Behold, how good and pleasant it is
when brothers dwell in unity!
Thanks, Bryant.
Dear Sir!
Given that you all willing, certainly Abel, I’m sure that the Israeli Govt would be interested to give research funding in your group collaboration, for sabbatical time, to help restore the Church to Covenantal Unity with Israel, (by an IBC translation & commentary, book by book of the New Testament) from which we have most disgracefully fallen. All that you do restores us to our right context, through & with it, rather than wrongly opposed to it. We hunger for your daat, all of your Jewish Christian Apostolic competence & insight, the education that we need & would stand for His promised shalom unity among us. Israel relief. Move us to, as promised, count ourselves blessed in her! At last, the peace of Jerushalayim!
Many thanks & best wishes all your plans, anyways! The courses are excellent, but your Bible NT would be monumenatal!
You think too highly of the Israeli government. From your lips to God’s ears (Yiddish phrase).
Awesome explanation, thank you. I read all your messages; thank you so much. Unfortunately I do not have any money at the moment to support your ministry. God knows my heart.
Thank you, and God Bless you Man of God.
Sincerely,
Gail Paul
Gail, I covet your prayers!
KJV is thee one for me, as the translators instructed in the letter to the reader… Work and study with the help with the Spirit!
The Word is a mystery and a living Word for a reason, is up to each and everyone to seek God’s truth!
Ask… Seek and Knock… and He will open!
God bless!
Not sure what you meant :-).
Dr. Eli, I guess you don’t remember me but we debated many points sometimes on the same side sometimes not 20 years ago on LinkedIn… Before I got banned from LinkedIn. I actually used to have your cell number sometime ago.
You may remember me talking about Israel meaning power of God… At the time you somewhat agreed that it is possible, I am convinced there is more than possible. It is a Fact.
Yours,
Simon
Dr. Eli,
Shalom. I love this article. It is clearly written with the life of thought “to understand God’s word.” Well done Sir.
Your statements “The goal isn’t to become a scholar but to take responsibility for your study” & “By comparing translations and digging into the original languages, you enter into the living conversation between God and humanity that the Bible represents” are perfect. I agree 100%. Thank you so much for this clarity.
Respectfully,
Gary Bronson
Thanks, Gary! Respectfully, Eli
Thank you for writing and sharing this excellent article.
You are welcome, Norman! Let’s keep thinking and learning together!
Consider this scripture John 6:44-45 Christ said no man can come to me except the Father draw/call them. You must be called and taught by the Father. Will the imperfections of the bible keep God from accomplishing His purpose? 1 Corinthians 2:14 “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”
Agreed.
Great exposition
Enjoy!
Thank you so much, Dr. Eli for imparting this knowledge about various translations. I have a Pure Word Bible and it does make Scriptures more understanding compared to modern translations.
Thank you again.
Thank you for your encouragement!