The Complete Jewish Bible (CJB): Translation Methodology, Impact, and Reception

The Complete Jewish Bible (CJB) is a significant translation in the realm of English Bible translations, particularly noted for its approach to integrating Jewish context and terminology into the Christian scriptures. First published in 1998, the CJB was translated by David H. Stern, a Messianic Jewish scholar, with the intent of bridging gaps between Jewish and Christian understandings of the Bible. This post delves into the specific aspects of the CJB, including its translation methodology, impact on Jewish-Christian relations, and reception among different audiences.

Translation Methodology

1. Dual Focus: Jewish Context and Christian Faith

• Objective: The CJB aims to present the Bible in a way that acknowledges its Jewish roots while affirming the Christian faith. This dual focus distinguishes it from other translations that may emphasize either a Christian or Jewish perspective but not both.
• Example - Matthew 5:17:
  • CJB: “Don’t think that I have come to abolish the Torah or the Prophets. I have come not to abolish but to complete.”
  • Analysis: The term “Torah” is used instead of “Law,” reflecting a Jewish perspective. The translation seeks to harmonize the Jewish and Christian views on Jesus' role in relation to the Hebrew Scriptures.

2. Hebrew and Jewish Terminology

• Objective: The CJB incorporates Hebrew and Jewish terminology to maintain the cultural and religious context of the original texts.
• Example - Romans 1:16:
  • CJB: “For I am not ashamed of the Good News, since it is God’s powerful means of bringing salvation to everyone who keeps on trusting, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”
  • Analysis: The use of “Good News” instead of “Gospel” aligns with the Jewish context, and “Greek” reflects the New Testament’s audience in the first century.

3. Messianic Perspective

• Objective: The CJB reflects a Messianic Jewish perspective, which sees Jesus (Yeshua) as the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy and the Messiah.
• Example - Isaiah 53:5:
  • CJB: “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the chastisement that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.”
  • Analysis: This translation emphasizes the Messianic interpretation of Isaiah 53, which is central to Christian theology regarding Jesus' suffering and redemption.

4. Literal vs. Dynamic Translation

• Objective: The CJB employs a balance between literal translation and dynamic equivalence, striving for accuracy while making the text understandable.
• Example - Genesis 1💯
  • CJB: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”
  • Analysis: The CJB uses straightforward language to maintain clarity while respecting the original text’s meaning.

Impact on Jewish-Christian Relations

1. Bridge Between Traditions

• Objective: The CJB serves as a bridge between Jewish and Christian traditions, aiming to foster understanding and dialogue between these two faith communities.
• Example - Ephesians 2:14:
  • CJB: “For he himself is our shalom—he has made us both one and has broken down the dividing wall, the machitzah which separated us.”
  • Analysis: The use of “shalom” and “machitzah” reflects Jewish concepts and promotes the idea of reconciliation between Jews and Christians.

2. Encouraging Dialogue

• Objective: By incorporating Jewish customs and language, the CJB encourages Christians to appreciate the Jewish roots of their faith, promoting more informed and respectful dialogue.
• Example - Acts 2:1-4:
  • CJB: “When the day of Shavu’ot had come, they were all together in one place. Suddenly there came a sound from the sky like the roar of a violent wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.”
  • Analysis: The use of “Shavu’ot” (Pentecost) highlights the Jewish festival context, fostering a deeper understanding of New Testament events.

3. Controversy and Acceptance

• Objective: While the CJB has been praised for its inclusive approach, it has also faced criticism from both Jewish and Christian communities for various reasons, including theological differences and the portrayal of Jewish traditions.
• Example - John 1💯
  • CJB: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
  • Analysis: This translation reflects traditional Christian views of Jesus' divinity but is presented within a context that is sensitive to Jewish readers’ perspectives.

Reception Among Different Audiences

1. Messianic Jewish Community

• Objective: The CJB has been particularly well-received within the Messianic Jewish community, which values its representation of both Jewish and Christian beliefs.
• Example - Revelation 5:9:
  • CJB: “They sang a new song: ‘You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slaughtered; and by your blood you ransomed for God persons from every tribe, language, people, and nation.’”
  • Analysis: The Messianic Jewish community appreciates the CJB’s integration of Jewish imagery and language with Christian theology.

2. Christian Readers

• Objective: Among broader Christian audiences, the CJB is valued for its clarity and its emphasis on the Jewish background of the New Testament, though it may be less familiar to those who are used to more traditional translations.
• Example - Luke 2:14:
  • CJB: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among people of good will.”
  • Analysis: This translation resonates with Christians by maintaining familiar theological concepts while presenting them in a Jewish context.

3. Jewish Readers

• Objective: For Jewish readers, the CJB’s integration of Jesus as the Messiah can be controversial. While it seeks to present the Christian perspective respectfully, some may find its theological claims challenging.
• Example - Matthew 5:17:
  • CJB: “Don’t think that I have come to abolish the Torah or the Prophets. I have come not to abolish but to complete.”
  • Analysis: The CJB’s portrayal of Jesus’ relationship to the Torah may be viewed with skepticism by traditional Jewish readers.

4. Scholars and Theologians

• Objective: Scholars and theologians appreciate the CJB for its unique approach to translation and its attempt to provide a contextually rich reading experience.
• Example - Hebrews 11💯
  • CJB: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, being convinced of what we do not see.”
  • Analysis: The CJB’s translation is valued for its attempt to convey theological concepts in a way that bridges Jewish and Christian traditions.

The Complete Jewish Bible (CJB) offers a distinctive approach to Bible translation by integrating Jewish terminology and context with Christian theology. Its methodology reflects a balance between literal and dynamic translation, aiming to make the scriptures accessible while maintaining a connection to their Jewish roots. The CJB has had a significant impact on Jewish-Christian relations by fostering dialogue and understanding, though it has also faced criticism and controversy from various quarters. Its reception among different audiences highlights its role as a bridge between traditions, a tool for educational and spiritual growth, and a source of discussion and debate.