New jerusalem bible review

The New Jerusalem Bible (NJB) is a Catholic Bible translation that was first published in 1985. Here's a review of the NJB:

Translation Philosophy

The NJB is a dynamic equivalence translation, which means that it aims to convey the meaning and tone of the original texts rather than a literal word-for-word translation. The translators used a variety of sources, including the original Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic texts, as well as other ancient texts and manuscripts.

Strengths

  1. Clear and readable language: The NJB uses modern English that is easy to understand, making it accessible to a wide range of readers.
  2. Accurate rendering of nuances: The translators have done a good job of capturing the nuances of the original texts, including idioms, metaphors, and cultural references.
  3. Inclusive language: The NJB uses inclusive language, avoiding masculine pronouns and using gender-neutral language to refer to God and humanity.
  4. Footnotes and introductions: The NJB includes extensive footnotes and introductions that provide context and background information on the biblical texts.

Weaknesses

  1. Some archaic language: While the NJB is generally written in modern English, some of the language and phrasing may seem archaic or formal to modern readers.
  2. Not always literal: As a dynamic equivalence translation, the NJB may not always convey the exact wording or syntax of the original texts, which can be a drawback for some readers.
  3. Limited availability: The NJB is not as widely available as some other Bible translations, and it may be harder to find in some bookstores or online.

Comparison to other translations

The NJB is generally considered to be a good middle-ground translation, neither too formal nor too informal. It is often compared to other Catholic Bible translations, such as the Revised Standard Version (RSV) and the New American Bible (NAB). The NJB is considered to be more readable and accessible than the RSV, but less formal than the NAB.

Conclusion

The New Jerusalem Bible is a solid translation that is well-suited for Catholic readers and those who prefer a more formal, yet still readable, translation. While it may not be the best choice for readers who prefer a more literal translation or a more modern tone, it is a reliable and accurate translation that can be a valuable resource for Bible study and devotion.