Exploring the Differences Between The Living Bible (TLB) and the New Living Translation (NLT): Impact of Paraphrases on Bible Study

The Living Bible (TLB) and the New Living Translation (NLT) are two prominent English translations of the Bible that have made significant contributions to the accessibility and comprehension of Scripture. While both versions aim to present the Bible in a contemporary and understandable manner, they do so through different methods and philosophies of translation. This post explores the key differences between the TLB and NLT, and discusses the broader impact of paraphrases on Bible study.

The Living Bible (TLB): An Overview

1. Background and Development:

• Origins: The Living Bible (TLB) was first published in 1971 by Tyndale House Publishers. It was created by Kenneth N. Taylor, who initially began the project as a series of paraphrased Bible stories for his children. His goal was to make the Scriptures more accessible and understandable for those who found traditional translations challenging.
• Translation Philosophy: The TLB is classified as a paraphrase rather than a direct translation. Taylor’s approach was to restate the biblical texts in a more conversational and modern language, aiming to capture the meaning and spirit of the original Scriptures rather than adhering strictly to the wording or structure of the original texts.

2. Language and Style:

• Conversational Tone: The TLB employs a highly readable and conversational style. It aims to present the Bible in a way that is engaging and easy to understand, often using idiomatic expressions and contemporary language to convey the message.
• Interpretative Nature: Because it is a paraphrase, the TLB often includes interpretative elements that reflect Taylor’s understanding of the text. This can make the TLB more accessible but may also introduce personal bias into the text.

3. Reception and Impact:

• Accessibility: The TLB was well-received for its accessibility and ease of reading. It was particularly popular among readers who were new to the Bible or who struggled with more formal translations.
• Criticism: Critics argue that paraphrases like the TLB can sometimes distort the original meaning of the text by focusing too much on readability at the expense of accuracy. The interpretative nature of the TLB means that it should be used with caution in scholarly or detailed study.

The New Living Translation (NLT): An Overview

1. Background and Development:

• Origins: The New Living Translation (NLT) was first published in 1996 and was a revision of the Living Bible. It was developed by a team of scholars and translators under the guidance of Tyndale House Publishers, with the goal of creating a translation that balances readability with a more faithful representation of the original texts.
• Translation Philosophy: The NLT is considered a dynamic equivalence translation, which means it seeks to convey the meaning of the original texts in a way that is clear and natural in modern English. It relies on scholarly translation principles while maintaining the readability that was a hallmark of the TLB.

2. Language and Style:

• Balanced Approach: The NLT uses contemporary language and idiomatic expressions to make the text accessible, but it strives to stay closer to the original meaning and structure than the TLB. It employs a team of translators who work to ensure that the translation is both accurate and readable.
• Translation Principles: Unlike the TLB, which is a paraphrase, the NLT is a translation based on Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts. It is designed to be both faithful to the original manuscripts and readable to modern audiences.

3. Reception and Impact:

• Scholarly Approval: The NLT has been well-received by both lay readers and scholars for its balance between readability and accuracy. It is often used in study settings, devotional reading, and as a reference alongside more literal translations.
• Use in Study: The NLT’s approach makes it suitable for those who want a contemporary rendering of the Bible without sacrificing too much of the original text’s integrity. It is valued for its clarity and helpfulness in understanding complex passages.

Comparing the TLB and NLT

1. Methodology:

• The Living Bible (TLB): As a paraphrase, the TLB prioritizes readability and the conveyance of the general meaning over strict adherence to the original text. This can make it very accessible but potentially less precise in conveying the original nuances.
• The New Living Translation (NLT): The NLT, while also aiming for readability, is a translation that works directly from the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts. It balances readability with accuracy, providing a more nuanced representation of the original Scriptures.

2. Textual Basis:

• TLB: The TLB does not directly translate from the original languages but rather paraphrases the text based on various English translations and interpretive insights. This can introduce interpretative layers that may not reflect the original meaning as closely.
• NLT: The NLT is based on a rigorous translation process involving direct work with the original texts. This provides a closer representation of the original Scriptures while still using modern English to ensure readability.

3. Purpose and Use:

• TLB: The TLB is often used for casual reading and devotional purposes. Its straightforward and conversational style is helpful for those new to the Bible or looking for a more relatable presentation.
• NLT: The NLT is used for both devotional reading and in more formal study contexts. Its balance of readability and textual fidelity makes it suitable for various applications, including teaching and in-depth Bible study.

Impact of Paraphrases on Bible Study

1. Accessibility and Engagement:

• Simplified Understanding: Paraphrases like the TLB make the Bible more accessible to a broader audience by using contemporary language and idioms. This can be particularly useful for introducing new readers to biblical concepts and stories.
• Increased Engagement: The readability of paraphrases often leads to increased engagement with the text. Readers who might find traditional translations challenging may find paraphrases more inviting and easier to understand.

2. Accuracy and Interpretation:

• Potential for Misunderstanding: The interpretative nature of paraphrases can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or a skewed perception of the text. Paraphrases may reflect the translator’s interpretation rather than a direct representation of the original text.
• Supplementary Tool: While paraphrases are valuable for accessibility, they should be used in conjunction with more literal translations for a fuller understanding of the Bible. They can serve as supplementary tools to clarify and illuminate the text but should not be relied upon as the sole source for detailed study.

3. Scholarly and Devotional Use:

• Devotional Reading: Paraphrases are often preferred for personal devotion and reflection due to their readability and engaging language. They provide a way for readers to connect with the Bible on a personal level.
• Scholarly Study: For detailed exegesis and academic study, more literal translations are generally preferred. They provide a closer representation of the original text and are more suitable for in-depth analysis.

The Living Bible (TLB) and the New Living Translation (NLT) represent two different approaches to making the Bible accessible to modern readers. While the TLB, as a paraphrase, prioritizes readability and interpretative presentation, the NLT offers a balanced approach that combines readability with a closer adherence to the original texts. Both translations have their place in Bible study, serving different purposes and audiences.

Paraphrases like the TLB play a valuable role in making Scripture accessible and engaging, especially for those new to the Bible or seeking a more relatable presentation. However, they should be complemented by more literal translations, such as the NLT, for a comprehensive understanding of the text. By using a range of translations and study tools, readers can gain a more nuanced and accurate appreciation of the Bible’s message and meaning.