How Ancient Translations Changed the Bible

The Bible, one of the most influential books in human history, has undergone numerous translations since its earliest forms. These translations have not only shaped religious beliefs but also influenced cultures, politics, and historical events. But how did ancient translations impact the way we understand the Bible today?

The First Major Translations

The Septuagint (3rd–2nd Century BCE)

The Septuagint (LXX) was the first major translation of the Hebrew Scriptures into Greek. Commissioned in Egypt for Greek-speaking Jews, this translation introduced variations from the original Hebrew text. Some passages were altered or expanded, influencing later Christian theology—especially as the Septuagint was widely used by early Christians, including the authors of the New Testament.

The Latin Vulgate (4th Century CE)

Commissioned by Pope Damasus I and translated by Saint Jerome, the Vulgate became the standard Bible for the Roman Catholic Church for over a thousand years. Jerome used Hebrew texts instead of the Septuagint for much of the Old Testament, but some differences remained. This translation introduced key terms that shaped Christian doctrine—such as “penance” instead of “repentance” in some passages.

The Shift from Ancient to Modern Translations

The Wycliffe Bible (14th Century CE)

John Wycliffe’s translation was the first complete Bible in English, based on the Latin Vulgate rather than Hebrew or Greek texts. Since it was translated from an already modified text, some meanings were slightly altered, sparking controversy and leading to the banning of his translation.

The King James Version (1611 CE)

The KJV, one of the most influential English translations, was based on Greek and Hebrew manuscripts available at the time. However, many of these texts were from the Byzantine tradition, which contained additional passages compared to the older Alexandrian manuscripts discovered later. This is why some modern translations, like the NIV and ESV, omit certain verses found in the KJV (e.g., Mark 16:9-20 and John 7:53-8:11).

Theological and Doctrinal Impact

Each translation introduced linguistic and theological nuances. For example:

• The word "virgin" in Isaiah 7:14 was translated from the Hebrew almah (which can mean “young woman”) into the Greek parthenos (which strictly means “virgin”). This shaped Christian doctrine regarding the prophecy of Jesus’ birth.
• The Greek term metanoia ("change of mind") was translated as “penance” in the Latin Vulgate, reinforcing Catholic doctrines of confession and absolution.

Conclusion: The Ever-Evolving Bible

Ancient translations were shaped by linguistic, cultural, and theological influences. While modern scholarship has allowed for more accurate translations, the historical shifts in meaning remind us that understanding the Bible requires context. Each translation carries its own historical and doctrinal significance, making Bible study an ever-evolving journey.