When we read the Bible, sometimes the words we see are not exactly what was originally written. This happens because the Bible was first written in languages like Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic, and later translated into English and many other languages. During translation, some words can be misunderstood or changed by mistake. These mistakes are called mistranslations.
Mistranslations in the Bible are interesting because they can change the way people understand stories and teachings. For example, a single word that is not translated correctly could change the meaning of an important story or rule. This is why it’s important to know about these mistranslations—it helps us understand what the Bible really says.
In this article, we will look at some famous mistranslations in the Bible. We will see how they happened and talk about their effects on Christian beliefs and teachings. By learning about these mistranslations, we can get a clearer idea of the original messages in the Bible.
List Of Mistranslations In The Bible
Here is a table summarizing the list of mistranslations in the Bible:
| Mistranslation | Reference |
|---|---|
| “all Pharaoh’s horses” when there were no horses | Exodus 9:3-6[4] |
| Divine instructions for making tables, candlesticks, snuffers, etc. | Exodus 25-30[4] |
| Instructions for making priestly garments, girdles, and bonnets | Exodus 28:2, 20, 40[4] |
| Aaron must wear a bell whenever he enters the holy place | Exodus 28:34-35[4] |
| Instructions for making priestly breeches | Exodus 28:42[4] |
| Burning the dung of bullocks outside the camp as a sin offering | Exodus 29:14[4] |
These mistranslations are listed in a PDF document titled “A list of over 700 inconsistencies in the Bible” from the University of Maryland Computer Science department.
Famous Mistranslations: The Story of the Virgin Birth
The story of Jesus’ birth is one of the most well-known parts of the Bible. It tells us about Mary, a young woman who gives birth to Jesus. This story is special because it says that Mary was a virgin when she had Jesus. But, there’s a big discussion about one word that might have been misunderstood when the Bible was translated from Hebrew to Greek.
The Original Word and Its Meaning
In the Hebrew version of the Bible, in a book called Isaiah, there’s a verse that talks about a young woman having a baby. The Hebrew word used here is “almah,” which means a young woman. This young woman is supposed to have a baby and name him Emmanuel.
How Translation Changed the Story
When the Bible was translated into Greek, the word “almah” was changed to “parthenos.” The Greek word “parthenos” means a virgin. This small change made a big difference. It turned the story into one where the young woman, now understood as a virgin, would have a baby.
The Impact on Christian Doctrine
This change affected how people understood Jesus’ birth. The idea of a virgin birth became a key part of Christian beliefs. It showed that Jesus’ birth was a miracle and different from any other birth. This belief is important for many Christians around the world.
Examples from Other Translations
Other translations of the Bible have tried to be more accurate to the original Hebrew word. Some versions use “young woman” instead of “virgin” to describe Mary before she had Jesus. But, the idea of the virgin birth is already a big part of Christian tradition.
The story of the virgin birth is a good example of how a small change in translation can have a big impact. It shows us that understanding the original words of the Bible is important. This helps us get a clearer picture of its stories and teachings.
Mistranslations and the Ten Commandments
The Ten Commandments are a set of rules given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. They are very important in the Christian and Jewish faiths. But, when translating these commandments from Hebrew to other languages, some mistakes were made. These mistakes can change how people understand these important rules.
Understanding the Original Commandments
The Ten Commandments were originally written in Hebrew. They include rules about worshiping God, respecting parents, and living a good life. Each commandment is clear but also very deep in meaning.
Examples of Mistranslations
1.Thou shalt not kill” vs. “Thou shalt not murder”
- The original Hebrew word is often translated as “kill,” but it specifically means “murder.” This is important because “murder” is the unlawful taking of a life, while “kill” can have a broader meaning, including killing in self-defense or in war.
2.Thou shalt not covet”
- The word “covet” means to desire something that belongs to someone else. However, the original Hebrew word has a stronger meaning, implying a deep, unhealthy desire that leads to taking what isn’t yours. This distinction is important for understanding the depth of the commandment.
The Effect of These Mistranslations
The way we understand these commandments can affect how we live our lives and practice our faith. For example:
- If someone believes “thou shalt not kill” means they can never take a life under any circumstances, they might oppose things like self-defense or just wars.
- Misunderstanding “thou shalt not covet” could lead someone to think it’s okay to want what others have, as long as they don’t take it. But the commandment actually teaches us to be content with what we have and not to harbor unhealthy desires for others’ possessions.
The Ten Commandments guide millions of people in their faith and daily lives. Understanding the original meanings of these commandments is crucial. It helps us grasp the depth of their teachings and apply them more accurately in our lives. Mistranslations can lead to misunderstandings, but by going back to the original Hebrew, we can get closer to the true message.
The Mistranslation of ‘Homosexual’ in Modern Bibles
In recent times, the translation of certain words in the Bible related to sexual orientation has led to significant debates and misunderstandings. One of the most controversial of these is the translation of words that some modern Bibles interpret as “homosexual.”
Origins of the Controversial Translation
The original texts of the Bible were written in Hebrew and Greek. The words now often translated as “homosexual” did not appear in the Bible until recent translations. This change has had a big impact on how people understand certain passages.
Key Examples of Mistranslation
1.1 Corinthians 6:9-10
- In Greek, the original text uses phrases like “arsenokoitai” and “malakoi.” Early translations did not refer to these words as “homosexual.” Instead, they were often interpreted as “effeminate” or related to general sexual immorality.
- Modern translations that use “homosexual” combine these terms, which has led to debates about their true meaning.
2.Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13
- These verses in Hebrew talk about men lying with men. The original context and the exact meaning of these laws are subjects of scholarly debate, but the term “homosexual” is a modern concept that might not accurately reflect the ancient context.
Impact on Views and Laws
The translation of these terms as “homosexual” has influenced both societal attitudes and laws regarding LGBTQ+ rights. Here’s how:
- Influence on Legal Systems: In some countries, these translations have been used to justify laws against homosexuality.
- Impact on Church Teachings: Many religious groups use these translations to shape their teachings on sexuality, which affects how they counsel and accept LGBTQ+ members.
The translation of biblical terms related to sexuality, especially the use of the term “homosexual,” shows how important it is to understand the original languages and contexts. Misunderstandings can lead to exclusion and discrimination, which is why many scholars and theologians advocate for more accurate and thoughtful translations. Understanding these nuances helps in creating a more inclusive and compassionate community.
Misunderstood Words: ‘Satan’ and ‘Lucifer’
In the Bible, the characters of Satan and Lucifer have been subjects of many discussions and misunderstandings, partly due to mistranslations and interpretations over the years. Let’s explore how these terms came to be and what they originally meant.
The Original Meanings
1.Satan
- The word “Satan” comes from the Hebrew word “satan,” which means “adversary” or “accuser.” Initially, it wasn’t a name but a title for a being who opposes or challenges.
2.Lucifer
- “Lucifer” comes from the Latin word “lucifer,” meaning “light-bringer” or “morning star.” This term was used in the Latin translation of the Bible (Vulgate) to translate a Hebrew phrase in Isaiah 14:12, which originally referred to a Babylonian king, not a fallen angel.
How Mistranslations Shaped the Concept of the Devil
- Isaiah 14:12 and the King of Babylon
- The passage in Isaiah, which mentions “Lucifer,” was addressing a Babylonian king’s fall from power. However, over time, this passage was interpreted to refer to the fall of Satan from heaven, blending the story of Lucifer with Satan.
- The Role of Satan in the Bible
- In the Old Testament, Satan appears as an accuser or a tester of faith, not necessarily the embodiment of evil. It’s in later interpretations and translations that Satan becomes the archenemy of God and the personification of all evil.
Cultural and Theological Impacts
1.Literature and Art
- The blending of Satan and Lucifer into a single entity has inspired countless works of literature and art, depicting the ultimate battle between good and evil.
2.Religious Beliefs
- The interpretation of Satan and Lucifer has influenced Christian doctrine, leading to various beliefs about the nature of evil, temptation, and the end times.
The terms “Satan” and “Lucifer” have evolved significantly from their original meanings due to mistranslations and cultural interpretations. Understanding these origins and how they’ve been conflated over time helps us appreciate the complexity of biblical texts and the importance of context in interpretation. It also reminds us of the power of language and translation in shaping beliefs and narratives throughout history.
The Lord’s Prayer: Variations and Errors
The Lord’s Prayer is a central prayer in Christianity, taught by Jesus to his disciples. It appears in the books of Matthew and Luke in the Bible, but not all versions of the prayer are the same. Differences in translation have led to variations in how it is recited across different Christian denominations.
Different Versions of The Lord’s Prayer
1.Matthew’s Version
- Found in Matthew 6:9-13, this version is the one most commonly used. It includes phrases like “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,” and ends with “but deliver us from evil.”
2.Luke’s Version
- Luke 11:2-4 provides a shorter version, which omits some of the elements found in Matthew’s version, such as “Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Highlighting Mistranslations and Their Origins
- “Debts” vs. “Trespasses”
- The Greek word “opheilēmata” is traditionally translated as “debts” in Matthew, referring to moral or spiritual debts, not financial ones. However, in older English translations like the King James Version, it became “trespasses,” which implies moral offenses or sins. This change affects the theological emphasis of the prayer.
- “Lead us not into temptation”
- This phrase has been debated because it suggests God might lead people into temptation. Some modern translations and even Pope Francis have suggested it be rendered as “do not let us fall into temptation,” to clarify that it is not God who tempts.
How These Changes Affect the Meaning and Use of the Prayer
- Theological Implications
- The choice between “debts” and “trespasses” can influence how congregations understand sin and forgiveness.
- The interpretation of “temptation” can affect believers’ views on the nature of God and human agency.
- Usage in Worship
- Different Christian denominations choose different versions for use in their services, which can be a point of both communal identity and theological expression.
The Lord’s Prayer is a foundational element of Christian worship, but its variations highlight the complexities of biblical translation. Understanding these differences is crucial for grasping the deeper meanings of the prayer and appreciating the diversity within Christianity. Each version carries its own shade of meaning, reflecting the rich tapestry of Christian theological and liturgical traditions.
Jonah and the ‘Big Fish’ vs. ‘Whale’ Debate
The story of Jonah being swallowed by a “big fish” is one of the most famous tales from the Bible. However, there’s been a long-standing debate about whether the creature was a “big fish” or a “whale.” This discussion stems from translations of the Bible and has implications for how we understand this story.
The Original Text and Its Translation
1.Hebrew Text
- In the Book of Jonah, the original Hebrew uses the term “gadol dag,” which means “great fish.” There’s no specific mention of a whale or any other particular species.
2.Greek Translation (Septuagint)
- When the Hebrew Bible was translated into Greek (the Septuagint), the term used was “kētos,” meaning “sea monster” or “giant fish.” This term doesn’t specifically mean “whale” but can be interpreted to include it.
3.Latin Vulgate
- The Latin translation of the Bible, the Vulgate, used the word “cetus,” which is similar to the Greek “kētos” and also means a large sea creature, not specifically a whale.
The Impact of the “Whale” Interpretation
- Cultural Depictions
- The idea of Jonah being swallowed by a whale has captured the imagination of many and has been depicted in art, literature, and popular culture. This image has become iconic, even though it’s not explicitly supported by the original texts.
- Scientific Discussions
- The debate over whether a whale could swallow a human has led to various scientific discussions. While these are interesting, they might miss the symbolic and moral lessons of the Jonah story.
Theological and Moral Implications
- Symbolism of the Big Fish
- The focus on the type of creature might distract from the story’s deeper meanings, such as repentance, mercy, and obedience to God’s will.
- Lesson of the Story
- The story of Jonah teaches about the power of God and the importance of following God’s commands. Whether the creature was a fish or a whale is less important than the moral and spiritual lessons it conveys.
The debate over whether Jonah was swallowed by a “big fish” or a “whale” is an interesting discussion that highlights the challenges of translating ancient texts. However, it’s crucial to remember that the core of the Jonah story is its moral and theological teachings. Understanding the symbolic nature of the story can help us appreciate its lessons without getting too caught up in the specifics of the creature that swallowed Jonah.
Conclusion
Understanding the Bible correctly is very important for many people around the world. The Bible’s teachings can guide how people live, think, and treat others. But, when there are mistakes in translating the Bible from its original languages, it can lead to misunderstandings. Let’s talk about why getting these translations right matters so much.
The work of translating the Bible is very important and never really finished. As our understanding of ancient languages and cultures grows, so does our understanding of the Bible. This ongoing process helps ensure that the teachings of the Bible are clear and meaningful for everyone. By learning about mistranslations and exploring the Bible’s original languages, we can get closer to the heart of its message.