Crossway’s ESV Study Bible is the subject of our review this week.
For the next three days we shall look at the ESV Study Bible and consider both the Bible text and some of its features.
Today we shall briefly look at the translation.
The ESV is an essentially literal (el) translation. This means that it seeks to translate the Bible text from the original languages word for word. The English translation seeks to accurately translate each word so as to be faithful to the writings of the original penmen.
As an essentially literal translation the ESV follows the tradition of the King James Version. It seeks to preserve both the faithfulness to the original text as well as the rhythm and beauty that has characterized essentially literal translations. To be honest, not all el translations have given a smooth reading text. The ESV does a good job of keeping a relatively smooth read.
The ESV also reminds me of the KJV. This is a good thing, because the KJV set a standard for beauty, structure and rhythm. Bible translators are wise to keep the philosophy of the KJV translators in mind. The ESV has done this in many ways.
Having read in the ESV a good bit over the last several months I have found it to be unfamiliar in the sense that it is not exactly the same as the KJV. On the other hand, it is very familiar in that it has a similar “feel” to it. When one reads it they know that they are reading the Bible and not some neighborhood kids paraphrase. It has much majesty of tone and style. It is also easy to read.
I foresee the ESV Study Bible being a great tool to help many people.
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