Thursday, July 12, 2007

WHICH TRANSLATION IS RIGHT?

We've all run into passages where translations differ somewhat. This can be frustrating, of course, but it can also be illuminating. I personally think comparing translations is one of the best ways to get at the meaning of text. It's often better than trying to over-research the etymology of various words in the passages. It's an approach that can create more problems than it solves as all sorts of possible--but highly unlikely--meanings are imported into the passage.

What's the best way to approach such a situation? Drew Kizer does an excellent job in analyzing Malachi 2:16, comparing the traditional translations with the English Standard Version's different take on a commonly used passage. I agree with his conclusion, but I think he also shows how to take a calm, open and reasoned approach to such a situation.

[And yes, I'm only a month late in reading his post. Sorry, Drew!]

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