New American Bible (Revised Edition) (NABRE)

The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE): A Cornerstone of English Catholicism

The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE) is the official English-language translation of the Bible for the Catholic Church in the United States. Released in 2011, it represents a significant update to the original New American Bible (NAB) published in 1970.

A Collaborative Endeavor

The NABRE is the result of a collaborative effort involving nearly 100 scholars and theologians, including bishops, revisers, and editors. This extensive team worked diligently for over 20 years to produce a translation that reflects the latest biblical scholarship while remaining faithful to the Catholic tradition.

New American Bible (Revised Edition) (NABRE)

A Commitment to Accuracy and Clarity

The NABRE aims to balance accuracy and readability. It employs a formal equivalence approach, seeking to maintain the grammatical structure and word order of the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts while also conveying the meaning in clear and understandable English. The translation is based on the best available manuscripts and incorporates the latest findings from biblical studies.

Key Features of the NABRE

  • Catholic Perspective: The NABRE is rooted in the Catholic tradition and reflects the Church's understanding of Scripture.
  • Formal Equivalence: The translation adheres to a formal equivalence approach, seeking to preserve the structure of the original languages.
  • Accuracy and Clarity: The NABRE strives for both accuracy and readability, making it accessible to a wide range of readers.
  • Liturgical Use: The translation is designed to be suitable for liturgical use, as well as for personal and group study.
  • Inclusion of Deuterocanonical Books: The NABRE includes the Deuterocanonical books, which are considered part of the Catholic Bible.

Impact and Reception

The NABRE has been widely adopted by Catholic parishes and individuals in the United States. It has become the standard translation for many liturgical celebrations and Bible study programs. The translation's emphasis on both accuracy and readability has contributed to its popularity.

While the NABRE has received praise for its scholarly rigor and commitment to the Catholic tradition, some critics argue that its formal style can be challenging for modern readers. However, many find that the translation's depth and richness enhance their understanding of Scripture.

The New American Bible, Revised Edition is a significant contribution to the world of English Bible translations. Its commitment to accuracy, clarity, and the Catholic tradition makes it a valuable resource for the Church. The NABRE continues to shape the liturgical and devotional life of millions of Catholics in the United States.

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