PerryDox – BeJustAChristian

Biblical truth standing on its spiritual head to get our eternal attention.

Acts 7:57,60 – NASB vs. HCSB vs. ESV

Acts 7:57, 60 NASB  But they cried out with a loud voice, and covered their ears and rushed at him with one impulse. (60) Then falling on his knees, he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them!” Having said this, he fell asleep.

Acts 7:57, 60 HCSB  Then they screamed at the top of their voices, stopped their ears, and rushed together against him.  (60)  Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin!” And saying this, he fell asleep.

Acts 7:57, 60 ESV  But they cried out with a loud voice and stopped their ears and rushed together at him.  (60)  And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Should an English translation always use the same English word to translate the same Greek word? No, because of the various meanings of each language and words. However, I prefer as much symmetry as possible to help the English reader see the connection. For example, in both vv.57,60, the same phrase is found in both, in the Greek – “cried/shouted/screamed with a loud voice.” Both the NASB and the ESV keep the balance by keeping the same language –  “cried out with a loud voice.” The HCSB does not. This is not a case of where the HCSB is wrong, but rather it is not as helpful to the English reader. I am assuming the purpose of the HSCB is to differentiate the attitudes while yelling. One is an uncontrolled, emotional, murderous scream; the other is a controlled, loving, loud, shouting of forgiveness. In that the HCSB captures the contrast better.


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