St Joseph New American Bibles

[PeaceInChrist]

The “most recent approved translation in existence” is not necessarily a better translation.

Many feel that the RSV-2CE is a step backward from the RSV-CE. For example, the NABRE makes use of some of the more recent findings in the dead sea scrolls while the RSV-2CE ignored the dead sea scrolls entirely. One is better off with the NRSV or the NABRE in my opinion.

Addition of a zipper turns a beautiful Bible into an incredibly rugged book able to stand up to hard use. I traveled extensively with mine in a backpack and it has held up for many years. I too am a fan of Oxford.

Have y’all seen Tim’s Catholic Bibles Blog?

-Tim-

Yes, I’ve read the blog and I like it! Good info.

I like the rsv 2ce, but it sometimes sounds clunky. I was just reading the OT yesterday, and it translated ‘booty’ instead of ‘plunder’, which people gave the NAB flak for. It made me think of how many people unjustly criticize the NABRE but give a free pass to translations like the Ignatius rsv because it’s hyped as more orthodox or ‘conservative’ (as though our faith is reduced to a political entity). It’s still good, though, and usually flows well.

Each translation has its oddities. The NABRE uses ‘oracle of the LORD’, which is apparently very true to the Hebrew, but sounds clunky. They could have easily put a footnote that stated 'Heb. Literally ‘oracle of the Lord’ but rendered it as ‘says the Lord’. Same with their rendition of Isaiah, ‘God-Hero, Wonder-Counselor…’ But it’s a great translation. The inclusive language is so much less than people gripe about. The notes can be questionable, but there’s no need to throw the baby out with the bath water.

Anyway, I found a nice leather NABRE from fireside: the catholic companion edition. It’s medium sized, 8 point font, very soft leather, but no zipper. If the zippered Catholic Book Publishing NABRE doesn’t live up to expectations, I’ll give it away and go with that one. I really like the Oxford versions, but like I said, they no longer make a medium ‘reader’s edition’ of either the rsv or the nab, like they used to. Only a large print and a compact. So unfortunate…

 

[PeaceInChrist]

I have a NABRE New Testament published by Our Sunday Visitor. Why a separate “Old Testament” couldn’t have been published as well, I don’t know. It it 4x6 inches. I really want a complete NABRE that is not paperback that can stand up to being kicked around a bit in a bag or backpack as I travel. I would have taken a separate Old Testament as a mate to my New Testament. Oh well. I really like Oxford University Press, I have the Annotated RSV Expanded Edition as well, but of course that is the regular size hard cover, and not the most recent approved translation in existence. This bible is all business. Thanks for the info!

No problem! If I need a pocket sized bible, I honestly usually just use my phone. For prayer periods I avoid using a phone, but it’s so convenient if you don’t have space for a bible (like at work).

 

[CalCatholic]

Yes, I’ve read the blog and I like it! Good info.

I like the rsv 2ce, but it sometimes sounds clunky. I was just reading the OT yesterday, and it translated ‘booty’ instead of ‘plunder’, which people gave the NAB flak for. It made me think of how many people unjustly criticize the NABRE but give a free pass to translations like the Ignatius rsv because it’s hyped as more orthodox or ‘conservative’ (as though our faith is reduced to a political entity). It’s still good, though, and usually flows well.

Each translation has its oddities. The NABRE uses ‘oracle of the LORD’, which is apparently very true to the Hebrew, but sounds clunky. They could have easily put a footnote that stated 'Heb. Literally ‘oracle of the Lord’ but rendered it as ‘says the Lord’. Same with their rendition of Isaiah, ‘God-Hero, Wonder-Counselor…’ But it’s a great translation. The inclusive language is so much less than people gripe about. The notes can be questionable, but there’s no need to throw the baby out with the bath water.

Anyway, I found a nice leather NABRE from fireside: the catholic companion edition. It’s medium sized, 8 point font, very soft leather, but no zipper. If the zippered Catholic Book Publishing NABRE doesn’t live up to expectations, I’ll give it away and go with that one. I really like the Oxford versions, but like I said, they no longer make a medium ‘reader’s edition’ of either the rsv or the nab, like they used to. Only a large print and a compact. So unfortunate…

Its funny, when I first started reading the Bible I thought ,‘says the Lord’ sounded like bad English. Now I am used to it. Then the NABRE started using, ‘oracle of the Lord’ in some of the places where ‘says the Lord’ had been used and like you I thought it sounded clunky. Now am used to it and prefer it.

 

[NightCrawler27]

The “most recent approved translation in existence” is not necessarily a better translation.

Many feel that the RSV-2CE is a step backward from the RSV-CE. For example, the NABRE makes use of some of the more recent findings in the dead sea scrolls while the RSV-2CE ignored the dead sea scrolls entirely. One is better off with the NRSV or the NABRE in my opinion.

-Tim-

That’s ok, I am fully convinced that the argument over recent translations are like arguments over which edition of Star Wars is the best. Some say nothing short of the original trilogy, original cut is appropriate for viewing, others say newer is better. At the end of the day, as long as they all have imprimatur and nihil obstat, they are still the true Star Wars. Some new things are great (enhanced special effects, better picture), others make people cringe (i.e. the NOOOOO heard round the world). I wish to see for myself and to experience it in many different ways, as there is likely some theological benefit to each revision. And no watching my my blu ray versions of Star Wars does not make me an apostate - not even if I like the additional commentary (but put mouse ears on the Death Star and there will be a schism for sure)

 

[CalCatholic]

That’s ok, I am fully convinced that the argument over recent translations are like arguments over which edition of Star Wars is the best. Some say nothing short of the original trilogy, original cut is appropriate for viewing, others say newer is better. At the end of the day, as long as they all have imprimatur and nihil obstat, they are still the true Star Wars. Some new things are great (enhanced special effects, better picture), others make people cringe (i.e. the NOOOOO heard round the world). I wish to see for myself and to experience it in many different ways, as there is likely some theological benefit to each revision. And no watching my my blu ray versions of Star Wars does not make me an apostate - not even if I like the additional commentary (but put mouse ears on the Death Star and there will be a schism for sure)

Wise, you are! Choose what ever translation works for you, and may the Force be with you!

 

[PeaceInChrist]

Its funny, when I first started reading the Bible I thought ,‘says the Lord’ sounded like bad English. Now I am used to it. Then the NABRE started using, ‘oracle of the Lord’ in some of the places where ‘says the Lord’ had been used and like you I thought it sounded clunky. Now am used to it and prefer it.

I’m not quite to the point that I prefer these renderings, but definitely they don’t bother me like they used to. Even the nrsv ‘fish for people’ doesn’t really bother me anymore. I still prefer ‘says the LORD’, as it says in the lectionary, but that doesn’t mean I dislike how it is. Like night crawler said, people get so worked up over APPROVED translations. Everyone just needs to stay calm and read Scripture with the mind of the Church.

 

[TimothyH]

Yes, I’ve read the blog and I like it! Good info.

I like the rsv 2ce, but it sometimes sounds clunky. I was just reading the OT yesterday, and it translated ‘booty’ instead of ‘plunder’, which people gave the NAB flak for. It made me think of how many people unjustly criticize the NABRE but give a free pass to translations like the Ignatius rsv because it’s hyped as more orthodox or ‘conservative’ (as though our faith is reduced to a political entity). It’s still good, though, and usually flows well.

Each translation has its oddities. The NABRE uses ‘oracle of the LORD’, which is apparently very true to the Hebrew, but sounds clunky. They could have easily put a footnote that stated 'Heb. Literally ‘oracle of the Lord’ but rendered it as ‘says the Lord’. Same with their rendition of Isaiah, ‘God-Hero, Wonder-Counselor…’ But it’s a great translation. The inclusive language is so much less than people gripe about. The notes can be questionable, but there’s no need to throw the baby out with the bath water.

Anyway, I found a nice leather NABRE from fireside: the catholic companion edition. It’s medium sized, 8 point font, very soft leather, but no zipper. If the zippered Catholic Book Publishing NABRE doesn’t live up to expectations, I’ll give it away and go with that one. I really like the Oxford versions, but like I said, they no longer make a medium ‘reader’s edition’ of either the rsv or the nab, like they used to. Only a large print and a compact. So unfortunate…

The RSV-2CE is a Ignatius proprietary version of the RSV-CE. They changed some words but it is not a new translation. The footnotes might be more orthodox but one cannot say that of the sacred texts themselves. Footnotes are not the Bible.

I like much of what you wrote about the NABRE including the bit about inclusive language. People gripe but when asked can point to only one or two phrases they have an issue with.

-Tim-

 

[PeaceInChrist]

The RSV-2CE is a Ignatius proprietary version of the RSV-CE. They changed some words but it is not a new translation. The footnotes might be more orthodox but one cannot say that of the sacred texts themselves. Footnotes are not the Bible.

I like much of what you wrote about the NABRE including the bit about inclusive language. People gripe but when asked can point to only one or two phrases they have an issue with.

-Tim-

I know the history of the RSV-2nd Catholic Ed. I just meant that it’s hyped as being more orthodox. It even says as much on its page on Ignatius’ website. None of that darn inclusive language…

The notes of the NABRE I take if they’re about something like the meaning of names, locations, cultural customs, and ignore if they cast doubt on something that seems to contradict the deposit of faith. The notes of the Ignatius Study Bible are awesome and I love them. But the NABRE as a translation is very good, as is the RSV 2nd. They both have merits.

 

[CalCatholic]

I know the history of the RSV-2nd Catholic Ed. I just meant that it’s hyped as being more orthodox. It even says as much on its page on Ignatius’ website. None of that darn inclusive language…

The notes of the NABRE I take if they’re about something like the meaning of names, locations, cultural customs, and ignore if they cast doubt on something that seems to contradict the deposit of faith. The notes of the Ignatius Study Bible are awesome and I love them. But the NABRE as a translation is very good, as is the RSV 2nd. They both have merits.

Yes I also use both of these translations as my primary ones. I like the new Didache Bible with the RSV-2CE as my RCIA and study Bible and I Use the NABRE for Bible study and prayerful reading.

 

[TimothyH]

Wise, you are! Choose what ever translation works for you, and may the Force be with you!

Yes, wise, and true lover of God’s written word will have many translations.

-Tim-

 

[CountrySteve]

Yes, I’ve read the blog and I like it! Good info.

I like the rsv 2ce, but it sometimes sounds clunky. I was just reading the OT yesterday, and it translated ‘booty’ instead of ‘plunder’, which people gave the NAB flak for. It made me think of how many people unjustly criticize the NABRE but give a free pass to translations like the Ignatius rsv because it’s hyped as more orthodox or ‘conservative’ (as though our faith is reduced to a political entity). It’s still good, though, and usually flows well.

Each translation has its oddities. The NABRE uses ‘oracle of the LORD’, which is apparently very true to the Hebrew, but sounds clunky. They could have easily put a footnote that stated 'Heb. Literally ‘oracle of the Lord’ but rendered it as ‘says the Lord’. Same with their rendition of Isaiah, ‘God-Hero, Wonder-Counselor…’ But it’s a great translation. The inclusive language is so much less than people gripe about. The notes can be questionable, but there’s no need to throw the baby out with the bath water.

Anyway, I found a nice leather NABRE from fireside: the catholic companion edition. It’s medium sized, 8 point font, very soft leather, but no zipper. If the zippered Catholic Book Publishing NABRE doesn’t live up to expectations, I’ll give it away and go with that one. I really like the Oxford versions, but like I said, they no longer make a medium ‘reader’s edition’ of either the rsv or the nab, like they used to. Only a large print and a compact. So unfortunate…

I think thats what most people don’t like about the NABRE is its footnotes. They are mistaken as commentary instead of what they are; philology.

There is a excellent comment on this blog’s post that explains it.

catholicbiblesblog.com/2015/04/pre-order-didache-nabre.html

Pax

 

[PeaceInChrist]

Well, I received the NABRE with zipper by Catholic Book Publishing. The binding is far better than the imitation leather Gift and Award edition. However, the imitation leather of this version is not soft (it doesn’t lay flat), and it is pretty large length-wise. It is almost as large as my hardcover Ignatius RSV-2nd Edition. I’ll be giving it to a friend as a gift.

I want to try the St. Joseph zipper bible, but I already know I won’t be able to stand the pictures. I might get the NABRE from Fireside, the Catholic Companion Edition, which I’ve handled and is very nice and relatively compact.

Just a note to why having different translations is beneficial: Read Leviticus Chapter 19 in the RSV 2CE, and then in the NABRE. Carries a totally different meaning for some things, or is more clear in one version than in another. For instance, in the NABRE it talks about adultery with an ‘aquired’ female slave, whereas in the RSV it says a ‘betrothed’ female slave. The RSV rendition carries more weight (she was betrothed at the time of the sexual act). The NABRE in one place says ‘you shall not stand idly by’ while the life of your neighbor is in danger. The RSV says ‘you shall not stand against’ the life of your neighbor. Much clearer in the NABRE.

Both good versions, both good to have!

 

[PeaceInChrist]

I have a question about the leather Ignatius RSV-2CE: in leather bindng, does it lie flat pretty well after it is broken in, or no?

 

[CalCatholic]

I have a question about the leather Ignatius RSV-2CE: in leather bindng, does it lie flat pretty well after it is broken in, or no?

I have one that has not been used very much and it lays flat until you get within a couple hundred pages from either cover.

 

[PeaceInChrist]

I have one that has not been used very much and it lays flat until you get within a couple hundred pages from either cover.

Thanks for the response. I was going to get a leather back, because I have the hardback, but it can be heavy and the sharp edges crush my other books sometimes. Plus I need to push the paper to read the inner margins sometimes.

 

[KD8TZC]

Yes I also use both of these translations as my primary ones. I like the new Didache Bible with the RSV-2CE as my RCIA and study Bible and I Use the NABRE for Bible study and prayerful reading.

I have teh RSVV-2CD Didache Bible and just love it. I also ordered the NABRE version and can’t wait for that to arrive once they get the initial backlog of the pre-orders taken care of. I only wish they had this in a paperback or flexible cover leather version. The leather option that they offer is leather over a padded hard cover.

 

[TimothyH]

I have a question about the leather Ignatius RSV-2CE: in leather bindng, does it lie flat pretty well after it is broken in, or no?

Mine is well broken in, read cover to cover several times and traveled with it extensively.

(Please Note: This uploaded content is no longer available.)

-Tim-

 

[TimothyH]

Wait, that’s the CE in the picture, not the 2CE.