One Bible, Many Versions: Are All Translations Created Equal?

by Dave Brunn

I believe that all four of these versions came up with excellent ways to translate this verse. But how can they all be excellent renderings when they are so different from each other? Isn’t there only one faithful and accurate way to translate each word, sentence and verse of Scripture? I do not believe there is. All four of the translations in this illustration help clarify the meaning of this verse—each from a different perspective. This blend of perspectives can work together like a microscope, a telescope and a wide-angle lens. These translations do not stand in opposition to one another. They do not contradict each other. None of them needs to strive for first place. Instead, they function as a team—accomplishing together what no single translation could ever accomplish on its own. Which is the best option? Is it A, B, C or D? I think it is often E, all of them: “in the multitude of counselors there is safety.”[20]