A reader writes:
At your suggestion (for which many thanks!) I have ordered a copy of Orchard’s 1953 Catholic Commentary; just now I feel rather like a kid before Christmas, eagerly awaiting the present. I noted in reading about it that he uses the Douay Rheims translation of the Bible. I’m curious; what is your take on this version, regarding the accuracy of the translation? I’m now reading the RSV, which I enjoy immensely as a nice blend of accessible (yet not gender-neutral) and dignified prose. Since joining the Church 5 years ago I’ve thought about purchasing a copy of DR, but I just haven’t got around to it. Now with Orchard’s Commentary on the way (and with my birthday coming up), I thought that this might be a nice time to purchase a copy. Any thoughts?
The Douay-Rheims is a fine translation, and if you like King James-era English, I’d definitely recommend it. It’s the one to have if that’s what you like.
It’s not perfect (and you should ignore claims that praise it to high heaven above all other translations–they are never made on its behalf by people proficient in the biblical languages), but it’s a good, basic, traditional translation.
If you’d like to learn more about it, here’s an online article about it. If you’d like to read some of it for yourself to get a flavor for what it’s like, the translation itself is also online.
Also good is the Douay Rheims commentary by Father Leo Haydock (from the late 1800s). It comes in two big, beautifully bound Bibles, OT and NT. The notes are very extensive. There are pictures, summaries of each book, and other niceities. I got mine for about 80 bucks.
A friend of mine got a DR bible for discussing things with people who only use the KJV (Mormons, in that particular instance).
Having something that is in ‘bibleish’ language to their ears helps.
Jimmy,
Great blog. My prayers are with you on your talk with the 7th graders, I’d like to know how it goes. I have a 7 grade CCD class myself and they have some pretty direct questions about the faith.I’m so happy they’re asking….
Anyway, My question is: In our parish men’s group the question of the 1000 year reign mentioned in the Book of Revelations was brought up. The question of it’s literalness was the focus. While it was discussed that it is only figurative I wanted to get your response to this and any materials,articles and resources you can recommend.
thanks
Hello Mr. Akin,
Just a note, the RSV:CE is now available again from Scepter Publishers in a bonded leather version (also indexed available). We also will have very soon (today?) the small compact version of the RSC:CE (very nice edition in my opinion) also in bonded leather. This edition has Dei Verbum included within it as well.
http://www.scepterpublishers.org/product/index.php
(we also do the Navarre)
Thought you and your friends would like to know!
Regards,
Kevin R. Lay
Scepter Publishers