There are many translations because the original languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek) are very different from Vietnamese or English; a single original word can have multiple shades of meaning; and ancient manuscripts sometimes have passages where scholars differ in their interpretation. Translators must choose between formal equivalence (closer to the literal words) and dynamic equivalence (more natural and understandable for modern readers)—each approach has strengths and weaknesses.
Formal equivalence vs dynamic equivalence
Formal equivalence (e.g., the spirit of NASB, ESV) keeps words and structure closer to the original, good for study but sometimes stiff. Dynamic equivalence (spirit of NLT, partially NIV) prioritizes natural target language sentences, easy for daily reading but less lexical detail. NRSV / NAB / Jerusalem are often used in English academic and liturgical contexts; Vietnamese has popular versions among Catholic and Protestant communities—ask your parish which version they use for group study consistency.
Practical Tips
Choose one primary version for continuous reading; when a passage is difficult, open an additional version or Bible Gateway to compare. Always remember: no translation replaces the teaching of the Church when understanding the mysteries (Trinity, Sacraments…).
Theological Terminology in Vietnamese
Catholic and Protestant versions may choose different terms for grace, Kingdom of Heaven, repentance… — when studying catechism, ask your pastor which version the parish prefers for consistency with catechetical classes. It doesn't mean the other version is entirely 'wrong'; but avoid constantly switching versions when you are new to study to reduce confusion.
English-Vietnamese Bilingual Families
Many families read English at school and Vietnamese at home—you can compare one key verse each week to see translation nuances, but it is good to keep one primary language for common prayer so that children don't feel the faith is 'two separate worlds.'
When Others Criticize Your Translation
Arguing about 'which version is most correct' easily turns into pride rather than love for God's Word. Instead, open a passage together, read a common commentary, and ask: What does the Lord want me to live from this? — often that question eases tension more than arguing over every word.
From Ancient Manuscripts to Vietnamese on Paper
Translators always face multiple reasonable choices when translating Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek — study Bibles or footnotes often note 'or: …'. The Latin Vulgate and Greek tradition nourished Western theology for centuries before apps existed; understanding this a little helps us be humble when arguing over a word in group chat: 'our version' is not always the only one the Church has used for official prayer.
One Voice in the Mass, Many Voices at Home
The parish chooses one version (or a family of versions) for the missal and homilies — it may differ from the version you are used to on your phone. This does not prove that one version is 'more sacred,' but emphasizes communion: the Word of God is both read privately and heard together. If you notice a discrepancy, ask your pastor or pastoral council why the diocese chose that instead of concluding the other version is wrong; sometimes the reasons are copyright, liturgy, or consistency with catechetical classes — all valid in the life of the Church.
