Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Review of THE STORY OF THE VOICE by David B. Capes
Photo Credit: Thomas Nelson
Rating: 5 out of 5
The Voice translation of the Bible is an interesting approach to presenting the Christian Bible in a way that strives to both preserve the ancient words originally written and the writers' literary styles and communicating those words and thoughts in smooth meaningful English. A team of artists, scholars, and writers came together to develop this unique Bible translation. I had an opportunity to review The Voice New Testament last year and I loved the literary style and the screenplay dialogue format of it.
THE STORY OF THE VOICE by David B. Capes takes us on a journey of how The Voice translation came to be. Starting with Chris Seay's vision of creating retelling of the biblical narrative that was accessible to people who were unfamiliar with the Bible. This led to a several year journey of The Voice coming about in parts beginning with the last few chapters of John's gospel. Capes tells us about the key players involved, which I found interesting because it's a diverse mix of people, some of which I don't agree with theologically. The translation philosophy of contextual equivalence is presented and illustrated, as well as why some things were translated the way they were.
THE STORY OF THE VOICE is a great look at the heart behind The Voice translation. I haven't had a chance look at the Old Testament, but I did really enjoy the New Testament. I would describe the translation as a combination of translation and commentary with the explanatory notes throughout, both within the text and in blocks outside of the text. I wouldn't recommend it as your only translation. The book mentions several perceived weaknesses of other translations and how The Voice fills those voids. However, I think it's best to read The Voice beside another translation. I think they'll greatly complement another.
Review copy provided by Thomas Nelson through the BookSneeze Reviewer Program
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