Reading the same verse in two translations
The Bible was not written in English: it was written in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek. Every translation is therefore a set of choices. Comparing them is a simple way, within everyone's reach, of bringing out nuances. This quest invites you to read the same verse in two versions.
What it looks like in your day
The app lets you read the Bible in several translations. The principle is simple:
- Choose a verse. A verse from today's reading, or a well-known verse.
- Read it in your usual translation.
- Read it in a second translation. If you read English, you can compare with another version available in the app (the French Louis Segond or the Spanish Reina-Valera 1909), if you read one of those a little.
- Note the differences. A word that changes, a stronger verb, a different order.
- Ask yourself what it teaches you. Does the word chosen by one open a meaning that the other hid?
A simple example: in Psalm 23, "thou art with me" is the heart of verse 4 in every translation. But some say "the valley of the shadow of death," others "the valley of deep darkness." These nuances invite you to ask: what is the psalmist describing? A place of real death, an extreme trial, a darkness?
If you are in a hurry, one verse is enough. If you are a beginner, choose a verse from a simple teaching book. If you are shy, this is not an activity that requires exposing yourself.
What the Bible says
The Bible itself invites us not to settle for a first reading. Proverbs declares:
“It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter.”
There are things to be searched out, which take effort. Comparing translations is an act of research. In the book of Acts, the Ethiopian who was reading Isaiah needed a guide (Acts 8:30-31): reading sometimes calls for help.
Paul prays that believers would receive "the spirit of wisdom and revelation" (Ephesians 1:17) to know God better. Comparing translations is only a tool: it is God who gives understanding, but he also uses our efforts of attention.
Remember that the value of a translation doesn't depend on its beauty, but on its faithfulness to the original text. No translation is perfect: each has its strengths and limits.
Pitfalls to avoid
Looking for "the best translation." There isn't just one. Some are very literal, others freer, others easier to read. Each brings something.
Relying on the most pleasant one. We tend to prefer the one that confirms our ideas. Compare with one that bothers you a little: you will learn more.
Building a doctrine on a nuance. A difference between two versions is not enough in itself to justify a theology. Stay cautious and check with other passages.
Confusing translation and paraphrase. Some versions rephrase a lot to be readable. They are useful, but don't replace a more literal translation.
Getting lost in comparison. One or two versions are enough. Don't multiply sources to the point of retaining nothing.
Today, choose a verse from your reading. Read it in two translations. Note one difference, and what it teaches you.