Why I'm Glad I Grew Up On The KJV
The KJV is poetic. It captures the essence of the original artistry. It emphasizes and dramatizes when it can. It remains to be a very literal translation, while at the same time using word order and linguistics to provide rhythm and groove to the Words. It turns letters into lines. Melodic lines.
The KJV is literal. Of course, there is no such thing as a truly literal translation, since no two languages have all the cognates required. But a translation that seeks to retain the original word-for-word authenticity is seeking to retain the word- for-Word miracle that turns words into The Word of God.
The KJV is universal. Even though it has dropped in usage, generations to come will experience its grandeur and beauty, and it will be appreciated for its then monstrous task of translating the Bible into English. Those of us who grew up with this translation will forever quote Scripture from its pages. It is encapsulated in the spiritual depths of our souls. I would have John 3:16 no other way. It's like my Grandmother's BLT sandwiches.
Why I'm Glad My Kids Won't Grow Up On The KJV
The KJV is outdated. Old English words that are no longer in usage compound the already difficult task of understanding and applying the Scriptures. Distance in language, culture, time, and geography already separate us from the world of the Bible. No more barriers and distractions are necessary, lest we run the risk of alienating a generation from the should-be-simple Truth. The Scriptures must be available, attainable, and approachable.
The KJV is overwhelmed. Overwhelmed with other options. The King James Version of the Bible can no longer be viewed as the "only Authorized" version. There are simply too many other good options on the table. Should it remain as one of the options at all is a question for subsequent generations of Bible readers. For now, it holds its own on the basis of universality, beauty, and familiarity.
The KJV is inaccurate. A short paragraph cannot provide the numerous examples, but a couple will demonstrate the importance of translating from the earliest of manuscripts. Since the Dead Sea Scrolls and other manuscripts have been discovered since the KJV was produced 400 years ago, we now know that "Peace on earth, good will to men" does not mean universal peace to everyone as is implied. "On earth peace among those with whom he is pleased" is the truer, less universal, less inclusive translation. Romans 12:1 should read, "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus" and should not continue with the condemnation of part b, like in the inaccurate manuscripts - "who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit."
The KJV is poetic. It captures the essence of the original artistry. It emphasizes and dramatizes when it can. It remains to be a very literal translation, while at the same time using word order and linguistics to provide rhythm and groove to the Words. It turns letters into lines. Melodic lines.
The KJV is literal. Of course, there is no such thing as a truly literal translation, since no two languages have all the cognates required. But a translation that seeks to retain the original word-for-word authenticity is seeking to retain the word- for-Word miracle that turns words into The Word of God.
The KJV is universal. Even though it has dropped in usage, generations to come will experience its grandeur and beauty, and it will be appreciated for its then monstrous task of translating the Bible into English. Those of us who grew up with this translation will forever quote Scripture from its pages. It is encapsulated in the spiritual depths of our souls. I would have John 3:16 no other way. It's like my Grandmother's BLT sandwiches.
Why I'm Glad My Kids Won't Grow Up On The KJV
The KJV is outdated. Old English words that are no longer in usage compound the already difficult task of understanding and applying the Scriptures. Distance in language, culture, time, and geography already separate us from the world of the Bible. No more barriers and distractions are necessary, lest we run the risk of alienating a generation from the should-be-simple Truth. The Scriptures must be available, attainable, and approachable.
The KJV is overwhelmed. Overwhelmed with other options. The King James Version of the Bible can no longer be viewed as the "only Authorized" version. There are simply too many other good options on the table. Should it remain as one of the options at all is a question for subsequent generations of Bible readers. For now, it holds its own on the basis of universality, beauty, and familiarity.
The KJV is inaccurate. A short paragraph cannot provide the numerous examples, but a couple will demonstrate the importance of translating from the earliest of manuscripts. Since the Dead Sea Scrolls and other manuscripts have been discovered since the KJV was produced 400 years ago, we now know that "Peace on earth, good will to men" does not mean universal peace to everyone as is implied. "On earth peace among those with whom he is pleased" is the truer, less universal, less inclusive translation. Romans 12:1 should read, "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus" and should not continue with the condemnation of part b, like in the inaccurate manuscripts - "who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit."
