The Catholic Bible has a rich and intricate history, especially when it comes to its English translations. Over centuries, the Catholic Church has carefully overseen the process of translating sacred scriptures, aiming to maintain doctrinal accuracy while providing the faithful with understandable texts for personal reflection and liturgical use. Here’s an overview of major English versions of the Catholic Bible, their historical context, and their usage within the Church today.
The Douay-Rheims Bible (1582-1610)
The first significant Catholic Bible in English was the Douay-Rheims Bible, translated from the Latin Vulgate. This translation was completed by English scholars exiled due to persecution in England. The New Testament was published in Rheims in 1582, followed by the Old Testament in Douay in 1609-1610. Known for its literal translation style, it was authoritative for English-speaking Catholics for centuries and is still favored by traditionalists today.
The Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSV-CE)
Originally produced as an ecumenical translation in the mid-20th century, the RSV gained popularity among Catholics due to its clarity and literary quality. Its first Catholic Edition, adapted with minor modifications to align with Catholic doctrine, appeared in 1966. Widely accepted for liturgical readings and study, the RSV-CE remains a prominent choice today, particularly in academic settings.
The New American Bible (NAB)
First published in 1970 and commissioned by the U.S. bishops, the New American Bible aimed to provide an accessible, scholarly translation directly from original languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek). It has since become the standard translation for liturgical use in the United States, with revisions appearing in 1986 (New Testament) and 2011 (Old Testament and Psalms).
The Jerusalem Bible (JB) and New Jerusalem Bible (NJB)
The Jerusalem Bible, first published in English in 1966, was derived from a French translation notable for its literary beauty and readability. With detailed notes and cross-references, it became popular among both scholars and laypeople. The New Jerusalem Bible, released in 1985, modernized the translation and included updated scholarship, continuing its legacy as an essential resource in Catholic Bible study groups.
The New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSV-CE)
Appearing in 1989, the NRSV-CE is an inclusive-language update of the RSV, praised for scholarly accuracy and contemporary language usage. It is widely adopted in English-speaking Catholic seminaries and theological faculties and often employed in ecumenical dialogues due to its balanced, nuanced translations.
The English Standard Version Catholic Edition (ESV-CE)
A recent entrant, published in 2018, the ESV Catholic Edition combines literal translation fidelity with literary elegance. Initially popularized among evangelical Protestants, this Catholic edition was approved by the Catholic Bishops of India, making it increasingly common in liturgical and devotional contexts worldwide.
Usage in the Catholic Church Today
The choice of Bible translation often varies by region and purpose. In liturgical contexts in the United States, the NAB predominates. In scholarly and educational settings, the RSV-CE and NRSV-CE are preferred. Laypersons often select the Jerusalem Bible or New Jerusalem Bible for their accessible language and extensive notes. Traditionalist communities frequently continue to prefer the Douay-Rheims for its venerable, classic style.
In recent decades, the Catholic Church has encouraged scripture study and devotional reading among the laity, prompting a proliferation of resources, digital apps, and editions tailored to various audiences. Modern Catholic Bible versions balance readability with fidelity to doctrinal clarity, reflecting the Church’s ongoing commitment to making God’s Word comprehensible and meaningful to believers of every generation.