It is undeniable that the King James Bible possesses a grand beauty. It stands as an English classic deserving of Shakespeare. Its composition was deliberately crafted in a majestic manner to highlight the sanctity of the biblical narrative. Although it can certainly provide enlightenment, there are instances when comprehension proves more challenging. For instance, when Pilate surrendered Jesus, the King James states: “Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away” (Jn 19:16). Stunning English without a doubt, yet the expression “he him therefore unto them” can perplex those unfamiliar with the text. Furthermore, consider the resurrection scene on the first Easter evening: “And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet. And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat?” (Lk 24:40-41). Exquisite indeed, but “while yet they believed not for joy and wondered” is quite intricate.

For Catholics, the “canonical” translation was historically the Douay Rheims Bible. In fact, it is an earlier English version than the King James. The Douay Rheims came out in 1582. Its language features an archaic style yet is less grandiloquent. Consequently, it is more accessible to contemporary readers. Furthermore, it includes the Old Testament texts absent from the King James. For more conservative Catholics, the Douay Rheims is preferred because of its enduring reliability and its use in biblical translations of the traditional missal.

For Catholics overall today, the most frequently utilized translations are the Revised New American Bible (RNAB), the Revised Standard Version (Catholic edition) (RSVCE), and the Jerusalem Bible (JB). The RNAB prioritizes fluency and, since it is employed for the lectionary during Mass, it is well-known. The RSVCE offers greater precision in its translation and has a more scholarly approach. The JB is also quite accessible and includes useful footnotes and cross-references. Additionally, all of these contemporary translations leverage the latest Biblical findings. Numerous ancient manuscripts have been uncovered since the 16th century that have aided in unraveling textual enigmas within the ancient Hebrew and Greek documents.

If you’re looking to both read and analyze the Bible, the RSVCE is likely the most suitable choice. Additionally, there are excellent study Bibles available, like the Didache Bible or the Ignatian Study Bible. Father Mike Schmitz also hosts a noteworthy podcast titled “The Bible in a Year.”

Generosity vs. acceptance

Question: What distinguishes Christian charity from secular tolerance? It appears that charity responds to immorality with compassion, while tolerance seeks to refrain from judgment at any price.

— Art Osten, Jr., Fox River Grove, Illinois

Answer: Tolerance is often incorrectly interpreted today as meaning, “I support what you are doing.” In reality, tolerance assumes that we do not endorse the behaviors of others. Tolerance is demonstrated and required when, for the purpose of another issue (upholding civility, collaborating on a common goal, showing patience, or waiting for a more suitable moment), we do not demand immediate correction of what is bothersome or incorrect in every situation. Tolerance is a facet of charity, but so is admonition. Discretion must guide us in deciding when to insist on correction and when to tolerate matters we do not endorse.

Msgr. Charles Pope is the pastor of Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian in Washington, D.C., and writes for the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. at blog.adw.org. Send questions to msgrpope@osv.com.