Understanding the Differences Between a Regular Bible and the Bible Used by Jehovah's Witnesses

The difference between a regular Bible and the version used by Jehovah's Witnesses lies in the approach and methodology of translation. While many modern translations, including the New International Version (NIV), share similarities with the New World Translation (NWT) used by Jehovah's Witnesses, certain discrepancies arise due to the different theological perspectives and textual approaches adopted by these groups.

The Evolution of Biblical Translations

Much of the debate around the differences between a regular Bible and the NWT can be attributed to the discovery of new textual manuscripts. Scholars and translators now have access to numerous older manuscripts, such as the Papyri and the Codex Sinaiticus, which are closer to the original texts. This has led to the exclusion of certain passages that were included in older translations, such as the KJV and its clones.

Exclusion of Spurious Verses

One of the most notable differences is the exclusion of spurious verses. For instance, the Johannine comma in 1 John 5:7 is missing in older manuscripts and is not found in the NWT. Other examples include:

1 John 5:7 (Johannine Comma): This verse is often omitted in translations like the NWT because it is not present in the majority of ancient manuscripts used for the translation of this passage. 1 Timothy 3:16: The insertion of "God" in this verse is not found in the original Greek text, reflecting the approach of the NWT to ensure that the text aligns with their theological beliefs. Revelation 1:11: The addition of "Alpha and Omega" in this verse is another example of adjustments made to align with specific theological interpretations.

The Theological Underpinnings of Jehovah's Witnesses

One of the key reasons why Jehovah's Witnesses produce their own version of the Bible is their belief in the doctrine of the Trinity. They deny the deity of Jesus Christ, which necessitates alterations to the Bible to teach that Jesus is not God. The NWT serves as a tool to support their theology and maintain religious separation from mainstream Christianity.

Similarities and Differences in Readings

While the NWT and some other modern translations like the NIV may share some similarities in their readings, the meanings and interpretations can be quite distinct. For instance, passages in the NWT may not represent the same theological positions as those found in KJV translations. This can lead to misunderstandings when those unfamiliar with these differences encounter them in their readings.

Examples of Misinterpretation

To illustrate, consider a scenario where a Jehovah's Witness or an LDS missionary uses the Bible to support their specific religious teachings. In such situations, passages may be taken out of context to align with their particular beliefs. For example:

The Old Testament prophetic verse “Thou shalt not commit adultery” in Exodus 20:14 is not as absolute as it might seem. This verse, when critically examined, can lead to different understandings depending on the textual and contextual approach. The commandment “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain” (Exodus 20:7) can also be interpreted in various ways, leading to different theological implications.

These examples highlight the importance of understanding the context and interpretation of biblical texts. Misinterpretation and selective reading can be problematic, especially when used to justify doctrinal positions that differ significantly from traditional Christian teachings.

Conclusion

The differences between a regular Bible and the NWT reflect the diverse theological perspectives and textual methodologies of different religious groups. While these translations may share some similarities, their theological underpinnings and textual approaches often diverge significantly. For those seeking a deeper understanding of these differences, it is essential to explore the textual and theological foundations of these translations.

Keywords

Bible Differences, Jehovah's Witnesses Bible, KJV Translations