New Bible Aims for Clarity

The New Revised Standard Version of the Bible (NRSV), replacing a 1952 edition used widely by mainline Protestant, Episcopal and Eastern Orthodox churches, incorporates wording that reflects improved understanding of ancient linguistics and culture, scholars say. Translators also sought greater clarity and to substitute gender-inclusive terms for masculine references.

Genesis 1:26

RSV: Then God said, “Let us make man in our image. . . . “

NRSV: Then God said, “Let us make humankind in our image. . . .”

Genesis 8:1

RSV: But God remembered Noah and all the beasts and all the cattle that were with him in the ark.

NRSV: But God remembered Noah and all the wild animals and all the domestic animals that were with him in the ark.

Luke 1:34

RSV: And Mary said to the angel, “How shall this be, since I have no husband?”

NRSV: Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?”

James 2:14

RSV: What does it profit, my brethren, if a man says he has faith but has not works? Can his faith save him?”

NRSV: What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works? Can faith save you?”