Catholic English Standard Version (ESV) Bible Overview

Introduction

• Speaker: Doug Beaumont
• Focus: Catholic English Standard Version (ESV) Bible
• Doug's Background: Transition from Evangelical to Catholic led to selecting a new Bible.
• Interest in ESV: Modern revision of the Revised Standard Version, preferred for its balance of literary beauty and updated manuscript research.

The Revised Standard Version (RSV)

• Used by many Catholic scholars.
• Literal word-for-word translation, but outdated (70 years old).

The English Standard Version (ESV)

• Represents a balance between King James and Revised Standard Versions.
• Updated language makes more sense today.
• No Catholic version available until the Augustine Bible.

Augustine Bible (Catholic ESV)

• Released late 2019 by Augustine Institute.
• Includes all books for Catholics, with Nihil Obstat imprimatur from Indian bishops.
• Presentation: Hard cardboard slipcover, fold-over softcover.
• Content: Almost entirely scripture, minimal notes focusing on translation issues.

Translation Strategy

• Faithful to original text, avoids paraphrasing.
• Maintains gendered pronouns; leaves interpretation to the reader (e.g., "adelphoi" for "brothers").
• Translates Hebrew "alma" in Isaiah 7:14 as "virgin" aligning with New Testament.

Textual Variants

• Exclusions: Doxology at the end of "Lord’s Prayer" not present.
• Matthew 19:9 translates "pornea" as "sexual immorality" not "unlawful marriage."
• John 7:53-8 and Mark's longer ending are included with footnotes.

Consistency and Issues

• Consistency: Attempts same translation for same Greek word, where context allows.
• Example: "Paradosis" consistent with tradition or teaching.
• Criticism: Inconsistency in 1 Timothy 3:15 regarding "pillar of the truth."
• Literal Translation Challenges: Some expressions are awkward (e.g., "planted the ear").
• Missing Verses: Some textual variants skipped (e.g., Matthew 17:21).

Design Aspects

• Size: Medium, portable, 16x9".
• Text: Small, with some text ghosting on thin pages.
• Deuterocanonical Books: In canonical order, italicized for clarity in mixed texts.
• Minimalist: Lacks additional study materials and notes.

Conclusion

• Price: Approximately $30, considered excellent value.
• Recommended for personal reading, not for study due to lack of notes space.
• Impact: Significant for Catholics, provides a modern, complete Bible in ESV.
• Appreciation to Indian bishops and Augustine Press for this translation.
• Encouragement to visit DouglasBeaumont.com for further details and resources.