Which Bible is Catholic?
The question “Which Bible is Catholic?” often arises among those who are new to the faith or those who are simply curious about the differences between various versions of the Bible. The Catholic Church has a rich tradition of sacred texts, and while the Bible is central to Catholic theology and practice, the choice of which Bible to use can sometimes be confusing. In this article, we will explore the different Bibles that are considered Catholic and the reasons behind their acceptance within the Church.
The Catholic Bible is essentially the same as the Protestant Bible, but with some differences in the Old Testament. The Catholic Bible includes the deuterocanonical books, which are accepted as part of the divine revelation by the Catholic Church but are not included in the Protestant Bible. These books include Tobit, Judith, 1 and 2 Maccabees, Sirach (Ecclesiasticus), and Baruch.
One of the most widely used Catholic Bibles is the New American Bible (NAB). The NAB was translated by Catholic scholars and approved by the Vatican for use in liturgical readings and for private devotion. It includes the deuterocanonical books and is known for its accurate translation and scholarly notes. Another popular Catholic Bible is the Revised Standard Version (RSV), which is also approved for use in the liturgy and includes the deuterocanonical books.
The New Jerusalem Bible (NJB) is another well-respected Catholic Bible that has gained popularity among Catholics. It is a translation of the Bible into modern English and is known for its readability and faithfulness to the original texts. The NJB also includes the deuterocanonical books and is widely used for personal study and devotion.
In addition to these standard Catholic Bibles, there are also various translations that are considered Catholic but are not officially approved by the Vatican. These translations, such as the New International Version (NIV) Catholic Edition and the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition, include the deuterocanonical books and are intended for use by Catholics who prefer a more modern English translation.
When choosing a Catholic Bible, it is important to consider the intended use. For liturgical readings and official Church documents, a Bible that has been approved by the Vatican, such as the NAB or RSV, is recommended. For personal study and devotion, a Bible that includes the deuterocanonical books and is known for its readability and accuracy is a good choice.
In conclusion, the question “Which Bible is Catholic?” has several answers, depending on the intended use and personal preference. The Catholic Church recognizes several translations of the Bible that include the deuterocanonical books, and each has its own strengths and benefits. Whether you choose the NAB, RSV, NJB, or another translation, it is important to find a Bible that is both faithful to the original texts and accessible to modern readers.
