The Bible has been translated more than any other piece of literature and is currently available in over two thousand languages, with several languages having numerous versions. Outlined here is the development of biblical translation, including a careful analysis of more than fifty versions of the Bible.

One of the most respected living biblical scholars, Bruce Metzger begins this engaging survey with the earliest translations of the Old and New Testaments before proceeding to English versions dating from the eleventh century to the present. Metzger explores the circumstances under which each translation was produced and offers insight into its underlying objectives, characteristics, and strengths. Having served on a number of modern translation committees, his insights into the evolution of Bible translation flow not only from careful research, but also from personal experience.

Students, pastors, and interested readers will discover the history of the written Word and gain useful insight into which modern translations best serve their own needs.

A highly informative and interesting account of the history of the English Bible. Professor Metzger has pointed out the qualities–good and bad–of all the versions, from that of John Wycliffe to the New Revised Standard Version of 1990. He has not neglected the Jewish translations of the twentieth century or the simplified, easy-to-read versions, and even includes the various paraphrases of the English Bible. All of this is done with clarity, humor, and sound judgment. His book will be a valuable vade mecum for all pastors, students, scholars, and general readers.–Joseph A. Fitzmyer, S.J., Catholic University of America

Any comments by Bruce Metzger about the Bible are worth heeding with greatest care. This is especially true for what Metzger, one of the key translators of the Revised Standard Version and the New Revised Standard Version, has to say about other translations–both ancient and modern, both English and in other languages. All who know how important it is to read the Bible in one’s own language will appreciate the learned yet accessible descriptions that make up this book. -Mark A. Noll, Wheaton College