The Modern English Version (MEV) is a relatively new English translation of the Bible published in 2014. The goal of the MEV was to produce an accurate and readable translation in modern English. Here is an overview of the key features and background of the MEV Bible translation:
Translation Philosophy of the MEV
The translators of the MEV sought to create an essentially literal translation that retained the accuracy of the original biblical languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek) while using modern English. Their translation philosophy emphasizes word-for-word fidelity over dynamic equivalence. The result is a translation that is highly faithful to the original text while still being understandable to modern readers.
Some key aspects of the MEV translation philosophy include:
- Strict adherence to the original languages and manuscripts
- Retention of key terms like justification, righteousness, sanctification
- Capitalization of pronouns referring to God
- Traditional theological terms retained (propitiation, redemption, etc.)
- Gender-specific language preserved (he, him, his, man)
The translators sought to strike a balance between readability and faithfulness. While easy to read, the MEV does not sacrifice accuracy for readability.
Translation Team Behind the MEV
The MEV was translated by a team of over 100 scholars from various denominations and theological backgrounds. Some key names involved include:
- Dr. James F. Linzey – Chief editor
- Dr. Eldon Woodcock – Executive editor
- Dr. William Pierce – Translator
- Dr. Edward Hindson – Translator
- Dr. Robert Thomas – Translator
- Dr. Arthur Farstad † – Previously involved in NKJV as senior editor
Having such a diverse team helped ensure scholarship and balance in the translation. The team endeavored to let the text speak for itself rather than be guided by denominational bias.
Manuscripts Used for the MEV
The MEV used the latest scholarly editions of the biblical language manuscripts for its translation:
- Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia 5th Edition
- Nestle-Aland Novum Testamentum Graece 28th Edition
- Septuagint
- Dead Sea Scrolls
- Various Aramaic Targums
- Latin Vulgate
- Peshitta Syriac
- Wycliffe New Testament
By utilizing the latest manuscript evidence, the MEV represents an up-to-date scholarly translation based on the best available texts.
Readability Features of the MEV
While maintaining accuracy, the MEV employs several features to help with readability and understanding:
- Modern English vocabulary and sentence structure
- Consistency in translating recurring Hebrew and Greek idioms/phrases
- Formatted for public reading with proper pauses, divisions and emphases
- Clarifying words/phrases added only when absolutely necessary for comprehension
- Generous use of section headings to aid in navigation
- Footnotes limited to absolutely necessary textual variants and explanations
The combination of accuracy and clarity makes the MEV very accessible for personal reading and Bible study. It maintains reverence and dignity in the language without being stuffy or obtuse.
Translation Examples in the MEV
To give a taste of how the MEV translates, here are a few examples contrasted with other popular versions:
Psalm 23:4
- NIV: Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
- ESV: Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
- MEV: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
John 3:16
- NIV: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
- ESV: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
- MEV: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Ephesians 2:8-9
- NIV: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.
- ESV: For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
- MEV: For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves. It is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.
As these examples demonstrate, the MEV combines accuracy with readability for enhanced understanding.
Christian Reception of the MEV
Since its release in 2014, the MEV has been generally well-received within Christian circles. Appreciation has been expressed for its faithfulness and reliability, as well as its modern vocabulary. Some advantages highlighted by reviewers include:
- Accuracy to the biblical languages
- Ease of reading and comprehension
- Dignified, poetic English
- Technical excellence in translation and formatting
- Use of traditional theological terms
- Consistency in translating Greek and Hebrew
Critics note its less-dynamic word flow and its closeness to the KJV as possible weaknesses. But overall, it has proven useful for serious study, devotional reading, and church use.
Translation Choice Spectrum
The MEV fits on the translation spectrum as follows:
Formal Equivalence (word-for-word) ← MEV → Dynamic Equivalence (thought-for-thought)
It leans formal but not as far as the NASB. And its readability exceeds NKJV and ESV due to word choices and sentence structures. So the MEV hits a nice balance of accuracy and understanding.
Study Bible Editions of the MEV
Given its accuracy yet easy comprehension, the Modern English Version has proven a good choice for study Bibles needing clear explanatory notes. Some notable study editions include:
- MEV Fire Bible: Notes focused on themes of spiritual power and the work of the Holy Spirit
- MEV Archaeological Study Bible: Fuller/Boykin edition with notes related to archaeological finds
- MEV Great Adventure Bible: Notes formulated around an integrated study plan
- MEV Military Bible: Notes customized for members of the armed forces
- MEV Spirit-Filled Life Bible: Notes keyed around the Pentecostal/Charismatic tradition
This demonstrates the adaptability of the MEV translation for various study aids and supplementary content.
Controversies and Critiques of the MEV
As a relatively new translation, the MEV is not without critics. Some disputed elements include:
- Perpetuation of questionable/disputed passages like 1 John 5:7-8 on the Trinity
- Inclusion of verses attested textually but not considered original (Mark 16:9-20, John 7:53-8:11)
- Critics of formal equivalence argue edits often reflect theological bias
- Disagreement over specific translation choices of Greek/Hebrew words
- Seen by some as redundant given the existence of other formal translations (NASB, ESV, etc.)
- Minority textual basis on some readings diverges from critical text Greek New Testaments
Most critics still acknowledge overall excellence and reliability of the translation. But there are disputes regarding some details.
Copyright and Usage Licensing for the MEV
The Modern English Version is copyrighted with all rights reserved by Passio, the translation’s sponsoring organization. However, it is available royalty-free for usage in certain contexts:
- Free downloads and online access provided for personal/non-commercial use
- Free licensing for churches and ministries
- Reasonably priced licensing for commercial publishers and organizations
- Creative Commons licensing allowing derivative translations by adhering to guidelines
The cost-friendly licensing enables widespread access not hampered by prohibitive copyright restrictions. This has helped the MEV gain traction across both commercial and non-commercial domains.
Current and Future Outlook for the MEV
The MEV appears poised for an expanding role in the years ahead. Positive reviews among scholars and lay Christians suggest it will continue garnering usage in the church and home. Its combination of accuracy and clarity give it strong appeal.
Some signs point to a bright future:
- Increasing use for preaching and teaching in churches
- Continued issuance of new study bible editions
- Potential research and academic interest
- Ongoing use for personal Bible reading
- Possible future study on its translation methodology
- Could emerge as successor to KJV for literal formal equivalence fans
Despite critics, the overall excellence of the MEV translation gives it staying power. Current signs point to stable growth in popularity and influence among twenty-first century English Bible versions.
Conclusion
In summary, the Modern English Version combines scholarship and readability to produce an accurate yet accessible English Bible translation. Its formal yet modern approach appeals to those desiring fidelity to the original languages in contemporary language. Though not without critics, the MEV has found reception across multiple domains of the Christian landscape. Current signs bode well for its continued growth in influence among modern biblical scholarship and church traditions emphasizing biblical authority. The MEV translation philosophy strikes an admirable balance between accuracy and intelligibility.