Welcome to the continuing series comparing the Revised English Bible (REB) with the New American Bible Revised Edition (NABRE) for the first reading (usually from the Old Testament) at each Sunday Mass. This series complements the comparisons earlier in 2018, which focused on the New Testament letters. I’m interested in exploring whether the REB’s translation style differs between the Old and New Testaments.
Sunday, February 3rd, 2019 — Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)
First Reading: Jeremiah 1:4-5, 17-19
NABRE:
The word of the LORD came to me:
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
before you were born I dedicated you,
a prophet to the nations I appointed you.
But you, prepare yourself;
stand up and tell them
all that I command you.
Do not be terrified on account of them,
or I will terrify you before them;
For I am the one who today
makes you a fortified city,
A pillar of iron, a wall of bronze,
against the whole land:
Against Judah’s kings and princes,
its priests and the people of the land.
They will fight against you, but not prevail over you,
for I am with you to deliver you — oracle of the LORD.
REB:
This word of the LORD came to me: ‘Before I formed you in the womb I chose you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.’
Brace yourself, Jeremiah;
stand up and speak to them.
Tell them everything I bid you;
when you confront them
do not let your spirit break
or I shall break you before their eyes.
This day I make you a fortified city
an iron pillar, a bronze wall,
to withstand the whole land,
the kings and princes of Judah,
its priests, and its people.
Though they attack you, they will not prevail.
for I shall be with you to keep you safe.
This is the word of the LORD.