Welcome to the tenth week of comparing the New American Bible Revised Edition (NABRE) with the Revised English Bible (REB) for the second reading at Sunday’s Mass. As mentioned in the introduction, this will be a chance to compare a strongly literal translation like the NABRE New Testament with a much more dynamic translation like the REB. As the translators continue to work on revising the NABRE New Testament, it also provides a chance to reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of the current translation (which was completed in 1986).
Sunday, August 19th, 2018 — Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B)
Second Reading: Ephesians 5:15-20
NABRE:
Watch carefully then how you live, not as foolish persons but as wise, making the most of the opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not continue in ignorance, but try to understand what is the will of the Lord. And do not get drunk on wine, in which lies debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another [in] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and playing to the Lord in your hearts, giving thanks always and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father.
REB:
Take great care, then, how you behave: act sensibly, not like simpletons. Use the present opportunity to the full, for these are evil days. Do not be foolish, but understand what the will of he Lord is. Do not give way to drunkenness and the ruin that goes with it, but let the Holy Spirit fill you: speak to one another in psalms, hymns, and songs; sing and make music from your heart to the Lord; and in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ give thanks every day for everything to our God and Father.
I have to thank you for writing about the REB. I was researching which bible or bibles to purchase, and I ended up with the NABRE and the NRSV. I think I am going to get a good used copy of this one.
You’re very welcome, Jerry! I’m glad you’re liking the REB!