Translation Myths

This is from Daniel Wallace’s list, and there’s plenty here to discuss. Dan has discussion and examples for each.

What are the most common myths about translation you encounter?

1. Perhaps the number one myth about Bible translation is that a word-for-word translation is the best kind.

2. Similar to the first point is that a literal translation is the best version.

3. The King James Version is a literal translation.

4. The King James Version is perfect.

5. The King James Version was hard to understand when it was first published.

6. There has never been an authorized revision of the KJV.

7. The Apocrypha are books found only in Roman Catholic Bibles.

8. Homosexuals influenced the translation of the NIV.

9. No translation can claim to be the word of God except the King James Bible.

10. Modern translations have removed words and verses from the Bible.

11. Essential doctrines are in jeopardy in modern translations.

12. “Young woman” in the RSV’s translation of Isaiah 7.14 was due to liberal bias.

13. Gender-inclusive translations are driven by a social agenda.

14. Red-letter editions of the Bible highlight the exact words of Jesus.  

15. Chapter and verse numbers are inspired.