The Mirror Bible, also known as the Mirror Word version, is a unique translation and commentary on the Bible developed by Francois Du Toit. The central concept behind the Mirror Bible is the idea that humans were created in God’s image and designed to reflect His nature and character. As such, the Bible serves as a mirror that allows us to see our true identity in Christ.
The term “mirror word” refers to the English words that serve as a mirror to reflect the original Hebrew and Greek. Du Toit believes that many key Hebrew and Greek words have been misunderstood or mistranslated in traditional Bible versions. The Mirror Bible seeks to uncover the original meanings behind the text by looking at word roots and concepts. This process reveals what Du Toit calls “mirror words” that reflect deeper truths.
Some key principles behind the Mirror Bible include:
- Seeing Christ in all of Scripture: Jesus is the perfect image of God, so the entire Bible reveals His nature.
- Unconditional love and inclusion: God’s love and salvation are for all people.
- Grace-based living: Righteousness comes through Christ alone, not the law.
- Victorious identity: In Christ we are victorious, righteous, and blessed.
The Mirror Bible often reframes well-known Bible stories in an effort to emphasize these principles. For example, the fall of man in Genesis is presented as an opportunity for us to see our need for Christ the Savior. Key verses throughout Scripture are reworded to highlight ideas like our righteousness in Christ, the triumph of the cross, and living from our spiritual identity.
Some key features of the Mirror Bible include:
- Rearranged books: The books are ordered chronologically rather than in the traditional Bible book order.
- Highlighted mirror words: Key terms are italicized to draw attention to important mirror words.
- Restructured verses: Verses are reformatted into paragraphs organized by thought, rather than following traditional versification.
- Commentary and notes: Extensive commentary and notes are included to expound on the mirror concept.
Francois Du Toit is a pastor and Bible teacher from South Africa. He first began developing his mirror concept in 1992 while serving as an associate pastor at a church in Johannesburg. This led to the creation of the Mirror Bible app in 2014, followed by the first printed edition in 2016.
Du Toit drew inspiration from the teachings of several theologians and authors who emphasized God’s grace and the believer’s identity in Christ. These include Joseph Prince, Andrew Wommack, Bertie Brits, and others affiliated with the grace movement or what some term “hyper grace” teaching.
The Mirror Bible has attracted many positive reviews, especially from those within the grace movement. Supporters appreciate its emphasis on having a relationship with God based on love rather than rules. They also resonate with the idea that our identity comes from being made in God’s image. This gives people a sense of value, security, and destiny.
However, some evangelical scholars and pastors have critiqued the Mirror Bible for its translations and approach. Concerns include:
- Inaccuracy: Some believe the mirror word meanings stretch the meaning of the original languages.
- Imbalance: Critics say it overemphasizes certain concepts like grace and identity while minimizing sin, repentance, and obedience.
- Narcigesis: Some see Du Toit as reading his own ideas into the text rather than drawing meaning out.
- Reductionism: Key theological terms and concepts are reduced to mean something different.
Overall, the Mirror Bible remains relatively controversial. But it continues to gain popularity among those drawn to its grace-filled, uplifting message. While it offers some fresh perspectives, readers are encouraged to exercise discernment given its unorthodox approach.
Some key verses emphasized in the Mirror Bible include:
- Genesis 1:26 – Made in God’s image
- John 1:14 – Christ the perfect image of God
- 2 Corinthians 3:18 – We mirror God’s glory
- Galatians 3:27 – Clothed with Christ
- Colossians 3:10 – Our new self is renewed like God’s image
- 1 John 4:17 – As Christ is, so are we
When reviewing these and other verses, the Mirror Bible often shifts the focus to themes of identity, righteousness, and grace rather than moral instruction or doctrinal correction. This gives the translation a devotional, uplifting quality for readers who connect with its approach.
In summary, the Mirror Bible provides a unique perspective on Scripture by using “mirror words” to reflect deeper spiritual truths about who we are in Christ. Its emphasis on grace and identity resonates with many believers today. However, others caution against what they see as inaccurate meanings and imbalanced teaching. While thought-provoking, discernment is needed when reading the Mirror Bible.
Ultimately, the Mirror Bible aims to be more than just a new translation. Its goal is to serve as a transformative mirror that awakens people to see themselves and God in a new light. For those drawn to its reflective approach, it offers a pathway to experiencing the Bible in a fresh, intimate way.
