(October 31, 2010 at 8:27 pm)The Skeptic Wrote: I know Skeptic's Annotated Bible uses the King James Version, which, stylistically has always been my favorite.
Is there a certain one that's a favorite among scholars today? I know my dad had to get an English Standard Version translation for his theological studies. I'd ask him what's the best one to study, but I want to know from a secular/historical standpoint rather than an apologetic Christian standpoint.
I'm highly interested in Biblical criticism and such, so I wanted to know what are the best ones to use for comparative purposes and for accuracy to the original.
Do the different sects use different translations? What do the Catholics favor? Orthodox? Mormon? I know Protestants favor NIV and KJV in Church generally.
EDIT: Also, if you recommend one, tell me why, and where I might can access it online
The New Revised Standard Version is the English translation most often used for scholarly work. In classes at most any seminary, or in classes in secular settings about the historical nature of the Bible, most professor require students to use only the NRSV. This is because it generally has the reputation of having very careful textual criticism, and doing careful word studies. A lot of the misleading translations of common texts are corrected in this version. This is not to say other versions don't have their place however, as the updated NIV is in favor with many.
For the NRSV:
-A little bit about the translation itself (http://www.biblestudytools.com/nrs/)
-Then start reading here (http://www.biblestudytools.com/nrs/genesis/1.html)
-Keep clicking the next chapter button until you get to the part in Revelation where it says "Amen"
Hope that helps!
