New English Translation Bible : Texas: Biblical Studies Press, 2005

Abstract

The New English Translation Bible (NET) stands on the long history line of English Bible translation. The uniqueness of the NET Bible is that it is published in print and on the web at the same time. This indicates that the NET Bible targets the so-called internet generation. While the printed NET Bible has limits to express all notes, the online NET Bible does not have any limits. The online version has 60,932 translator’s notes (tn). In fact, the online version has 4 kinds of notes, which are tn, tc (text-critical note), sn (study note) and map notes. The descriptions for each note is as the following:<BR><BR> tc discuss alternate (variant) readings found in the various manuscripts and groups of manuscripts of the Hebrew Old Testament and the Greek New Testament.<BR> tn is the most numerous. They explain the rationale for the translation and give alternative translations, interpretive options, and other technical information.<BR> sn is explanatory notes intended for the nonspecialist engaged in the reading or study Bible.<BR> map notes indicate for the reader where the particular location can be found in the map sections included in the NET Bible.<BR><BR> For example, Psalm 23 in the printed edition of the NET Bible has only six notes whereas its internet version has ten. When comparing the NET and ESV translations, it was observed that the NET Bibles tries to render new translation. In Isaiah 7:14, the NET chooses “young woman” instead of “virgin.” It may be a very innovative expression. The NET Bible provides a very long and important translator’s note via its internet version, of which it is a great advantage. Moreover the web version is absolutely free.<BR> Alongside these advantages, the NET Bible also has its weak points. One of the weakest points is the maps. Its maps are spectacular satellite images of the Holy Land with an overlay of site designations. While these are magnificent images reminding the reader that the events of the Bible took place in an actual terrestrial location, they aren’t as much use for actual study. Because they are satellite photos, the natural orientation of these pictures, i.e. the direction in which they are turned, often presents the map in a direction other than vertical north.