Re: Consistent translation in NT quotes of OT

From: Glen Riddle (glen1@flash.net)
Date: Mon Mar 16 1998 - 10:54:50 EST


Joseph A. Weaks wrote:

> Colleagues,
> I notice from time to time the phenomenon of an OT quote or even allusion in the NT where a translation committee used a different gloss. This Sunday's lectionary text includes 1Cor 10:7.
>
> NRSV 1Cor 10:7
> Do not become idolaters as some of them did; as it is written, "The people sat down to eat and drink, and they rose up to play."
>
> And the GNT is ... kai anestesan paizein.
>
> LXX has the same for Ex 32:6
>
> But the NRSV committee has for Ex. 32:6b
> and the people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to revel.
>
> Why not use the same gloss for paizein? The Hebrew allows for it. They didn't even make enough effort to be consistent with the unnecessary "they". Should this not be a consideration when creating a translation for public consumption? It is a minor point but it helps in making connections, though I realize the subjectivity of the principle when applied to allusions, as exemplified in type/anti-type biblical interpretation.
>
> Just curious for other thoughts, really.
> eirene umin,
> Joe *********************************************
> Joseph A. Weaks
> Minister of the Word
> First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
> Spearman, TX
> mailto:fccspear@ren.net
> http://http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/6638/
> "Let unity be our polar star." -GMP KT
> *********************************************

  Joseph,
A good translation is not just a series of glosses. If you get time to read some of the works on translation theory and practice by Nida I think you'll get beyond agitation over the details you mention.
blessings,
glen riddle
P.S. Did you know Dennis Cline there in Spearman; we grew up together.



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