Bible Translation Suggestions

[PLATO]

Originally posted by obiwan18
UberKruX:

The one that I use is the NIV, or the New International Version. This translation is the one my pastor uses because he feels the translation is best.

I agree. This is a reliable translation written in an easy to read style.

This Bible also comes in a "study" version that has a good bit of interpretive commentary at the bottom of each page. This has proved helpful to me when trying to get perspective on a particular passage.

Enjoy reading through it. It is a fabulous story. The best part is that it is all true.

[Timexwatch]

Of course, if you really want a challenge, try reading some of the passages in Latin. I dug up some old edition out of the church basement back home and spent some time trying to read it. Even for those who've studied classical Latin, it's tough.

[Inverse Icarus]

Originally posted by Troll
I teach Sunday School and also Discipleship Training.

I use the New International Version as this is very understandable.

I would also reccommend using a dictionary and a good Concordance, maybe Strongs.


I also sincerely hope what you read saturates your heart.

Deep Theological understanding is great and something we should all inspire to have, but childlike faith is what you need, simply trusting that God's Inspired word is infallible

Have a great Evening and If I may offer any further assistance I am at your disposal

Peace

Grandpa Troll

Sorry, but I'm pretty much on the opposite end of the theological debate from you, but as an open minded critical thinker, I'd like to be informed if I'm going to be an atheist / agnostic. I've read a few Buddhist texts recently, and i glanced at some hindu things (not really into Polytheism) but whatever.

I'm also constrewing a theory that is quite blastphameous, that Satan is the good guy. I've never read the bible, but i went to religion class (sort of like sunday school) for 6 years, and i don't recall Satan ordering genocides or raining flaming sulphur on a village. I'm under the impression that god is the evil one, and because he won, he got to write the history books.

[Lorizael]

Many Hindus don't consider themselves to be polytheistic.

All of the gods and demigods out there, Vishnu, Shiva, Kali, etc., are all simply manifestations of Brahman, who is an omnipotent entity that is the universe and everything within it (Brahman also created the universe).

But these are the stories given in the Vedic scriptures, which the majority of Hindus today don't read, because they are written in ancient sanskrit.

Just giving you some information. (so glad I'm taking Comparative religion)

Oh and Satan was definitely the good guy. He just had a different opinion, that's all.

But that's not really true either. What you have to understand is that a lot of early stories were written when Judaism was still making the transition to monotheism, before Jehovah was an all-powerful protector and creator. Because of this a lot of the backstabbing and powergaming and anthropomorphism that existed in polytheistic religions was still present in Judaism.

But with the coming of Christ and the advent of a loving god to watch over everyone, God most certainly became the good guy, and Lucifer the bad guy.

At this point, however, I could be speaking out my ass.

[PLATO]

Originally posted by UberKruX


Sorry, but I'm pretty much on the opposite end of the theological debate from you, but as an open minded critical thinker, I'd like to be informed if I'm going to be an atheist / agnostic. I've read a few Buddhist texts recently, and i glanced at some hindu things (not really into Polytheism) but whatever.

I'm also constrewing a theory that is quite blastphameous, that Satan is the good guy. I've never read the bible, but i went to religion class (sort of like sunday school) for 6 years, and i don't recall Satan ordering genocides or raining flaming sulphur on a village. I'm under the impression that god is the evil one, and because he won, he got to write the history books.

And just why do you think he won?

The answer to why you feel the way you do is in the Bible. Read it...think about it...and then see if you feel the way you do now.

Uber, I am definately not a zealot, but I am a believer. Just as I say on all subjects..get the facts and then decide.

[Straybow]

Orders? Orders? We don't need no stinkin' orders...

i don't recall Satan ordering genocides

Didn't have to give orders. Some people were perfectly willing to do it on their own. In other cases genocide wasn't the goal, only ignorance and rebellion.

Seriously, you might consider the New KJV. Not so much of the complicated grammar and outdated vocabulary as the KJV, but still trying to keep close to the KJV style.

[Trevman]

Stay away from the Contemporary English Version (CEV)

[Ishtar]

We used the King James Version growing up.

I now use (and my Dad uses to teach Sunday School) the New International Version (NIV).

[Dauphin]

Originally posted by obiwan18

BC, and ozz.

Why don't you try to help the man with an honest question?

I was being serious.

Reading the whole Bible is a waste of time. If you are only interested in the stories I would suggest a theatrical representation.

[Urban Ranger]

dm,

The Dead Sea Scrolls have nothing to do with the bible.

Originally posted by obiwan18
The one that I use is the NIV, or the New International Version. This translation is the one my pastor uses because he feels the translation is best.

But what does that mean? Does it mean it's texually accurate? IIRC, there's one done by Oxford, which is more accurate.

[Robert]

I would say read the NIV.
Start with the gospel of Marcus, proceed with the letter to the Romans after that. Than read Genesis and Exodus.

[Urban Ranger]

I am not surprised that the NIV is favoured by the more conservative Christians, for it was not translated with accuracy in mind, but with the expressed aim to reinforce certain doctrines.

[Ben Kenobi]

Reading the whole Bible is a waste of time.

BC:
That's a better way to put the point.

UberKruX:

Cybershy has a good order- this will be the most effective and interesting way to tackle the Bible.

UR:

My pastor favours the NIV for its textual accuracy, and use of modern language. It is easy for most people to understand, and the notes provided are a great help towards understanding some difficult passages. The NIV is used by a variety of denominations, as you have seen from the recommendations of Apolytoners. What version is put out by Oxford?

but with the expressed aim to reinforce certain doctrines.

Which doctrines do you refer to? How familiar are you with the NIV, UR?

[Lincoln]

Originally posted by Urban Ranger
I am not surprised that the NIV is favoured by the more conservative Christians, for it was not translated with accuracy in mind, but with the expressed aim to reinforce certain doctrines.

This is twice in one day that I agree with UR! For more information on this subject see: New Age Versions (I seemed to have forgotten the author's name). BTW, I recommend the King James. Look up the ancient words in a dictionary. It is worth the effort.

[Lincoln]

G.A. Riplinger