Is the New Living Translation Catholic?
The New Living Translation (NLT) has become one of the most popular modern English translations of the Bible in recent years. With its clear and readable language, it has captured the hearts and minds of many Christians around the world. However, one question that often arises is whether the NLT is a Catholic translation. This article aims to explore this topic and provide insight into the Catholicity of the NLT.
The New Living Translation was first published in 1996 by Tyndale House Publishers. It was translated by 90 scholars from various denominations, including Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant backgrounds. The translation team aimed to create a version that would be accessible to both scholars and laypeople, while maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the original texts.
One of the key aspects that sets the NLT apart from other translations is its use of contemporary language. The NLT seeks to convey the meaning of the Bible in a way that is easy to understand and relate to in today’s world. This approach has made the NLT a favorite among those who prefer a more readable and accessible translation.
When considering the Catholicity of the NLT, it is important to note that the translation team included Catholic scholars in its composition. These scholars brought their own theological perspectives and interpretations to the table, which may have influenced the translation process. However, the NLT is not an official Catholic translation, as it was not commissioned or approved by the Catholic Church.
While the NLT may not be an official Catholic translation, it does incorporate many Catholic theological concepts and interpretations. For example, the NLT includes the Apocrypha, which is a collection of texts that are considered canonical by the Catholic Church but not by most Protestant denominations. Additionally, the NLT includes footnotes that provide explanations and context for certain passages, which may reflect Catholic theological perspectives.
Despite the inclusion of Catholic theological concepts, the NLT is not exclusively Catholic. The translation team sought to create a version that would be inclusive of various Christian denominations, and as such, the NLT reflects a broad range of theological perspectives. This inclusivity is evident in the fact that the translation team included scholars from both Catholic and Protestant backgrounds.
In conclusion, while the New Living Translation is not an official Catholic translation, it does incorporate many Catholic theological concepts and interpretations. The inclusion of Catholic scholars in the translation process and the presence of certain Catholic-specific texts and footnotes contribute to the NLT’s Catholicity. However, the NLT’s broad inclusivity and its aim to be accessible to a wide audience of Christians from various denominations also highlight its non-exclusively Catholic nature.
