Title
Which Translation?
Scripture
A voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!"
(Luke 9:35)
Devotional
What was the language of that voice? Was it Greek, Hebrew, Aramaic (Syriac) or another Semitic language? Most scholars agree that Christ spoke Aramaic. The point is this: the writings that we have of both the Old and New Testament are translations of the originally spoken language of the Bible. The words of Holy Script have always been translated form the spoken language. The greatest manuscripts available are all translations, whether Greek, Hebrew or Aramaic. From the Septuagint to the King James none are autographs let alone written in the spoken language of their day. What does this mean and why does it matter? This demonstrates the wonderful miracle of the preservation of Scripture. Whether the translation is Hebrew, Greek, English or Spanish, God has preserved His Word throughout every generation. Yes there have been a few pseudo-translations, but the Holy Spirit has protected His Church form them. It is good to get as close as we can to the original intent, but let us be careful not to do so arrogantly. God can and does communicate His truths to all truth seekers.