This approach to biblical translation prioritizes conveying the meaning of the original text in a way that is natural and easily understood by contemporary readers. Instead of focusing on a word-for-word rendering, it seeks to express the intent and impact of the source language in a manner that resonates with the target language’s linguistic and cultural context. For example, an idiom from the original Hebrew or Greek that is unfamiliar to modern readers might be replaced with a corresponding idiom or phrase that accurately conveys the original meaning.
The value of this method lies in its potential to make the Bible more accessible to a wider audience, particularly those who may not have a background in biblical languages or ancient cultures. By prioritizing clarity and readability, it facilitates a deeper engagement with the text and its message. Historically, it emerged as a response to the limitations of more literal translation methods, which can sometimes obscure the meaning due to linguistic differences or cultural nuances.
