What is the World English Bible?
By Jermaine Holmes
The World English Bible (WEB) is not the result of one person’s effort but rather a collaborative project involving many individuals from diverse backgrounds. It is essential to recognize the foundational work that served as the basis for the WEB, which is a revision of the American Standard Version of the Revised Bible. Over 50 Evangelical scholars dedicated their time and expertise to the original project, building upon the work of those who came before them.
What sets the WEB apart is the resources and references that were consulted during the translation process. The translators had access to accurate Hebrew and Greek texts and lexicons for Hebrew, Chaldee, and Greek. They also utilized the United Bible Society’s handbooks on Bible translation and compared their work with other English translations. This comprehensive approach ensured the WEB’s accuracy and reliability.
Another aspect that distinguishes the WEB is the diversity of contributors. Volunteers from various church denominations worked on the project, including Baptist, Methodist, Pentecostal, Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, and non-denominational backgrounds. This diversity was intentional and served as a safeguard against introducing sectarian bias into the translation. By involving individuals from different theological perspectives, the translators aimed to create a final product that resonated with a wide range of Christian believers.
The WEB’s publication and feedback process was also unique. Rather than keeping the translation process behind closed doors, WEB drafts were made available online for the public to read and provide feedback. This open approach allowed for transparency and community involvement. The translators actively encouraged input from readers, seeking to incorporate valuable insights into their work. Every comment and suggestion was considered against the original language, ensuring the WEB remained faithful to its foundational texts.
It’s important to note that while credentials were not mandatory for those who provided feedback, the translators validated the comments received. Each statement was cross-referenced with the original language texts to ensure accuracy and prevent biases from seeping into the translation. The translators held themselves to a high standard of integrity and scholarly rigor, recognizing the weight of their responsibility in translating God’s Word.
The World English Bible is a testament to many individuals’ dedication and collaborative effort. It is not merely the work of one person but a collective endeavor that draws upon the expertise and contributions of scholars, volunteers, and the wider Christian community. The translators relied on a wealth of resources, consulted diverse perspectives, and actively sought feedback to create a translation that was both accurate and accessible. The WEB represents a bridge between the timeless truths of scripture and the modern reader, inviting individuals from all walks of life to engage with the Word of God.
Click here to learn more about the World English Bible.
About the Author
Jermaine Holmes works in online marketing and specializes in data analytics, SEO, web development, and AI with an interest in history, philosophy, and outdoor excursions. An LLM generated this article, but the content represents his own views and opinions. The content was reviewed and edited by a human prior to being published.