The Septuagint (LXX) is an ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, widely used in early Christianity and by Greek-speaking Jewish communities. Many scholars and readers seek an accurate and readable English translation of the Septuagint, but with multiple options available, choosing the best one can be challenging.
This topic explores the most reliable and accessible English translations of the Septuagint, their unique features, and factors to consider when selecting the best version.
What Is the Septuagint?
The Septuagint is the earliest Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures, produced between the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE. It played a significant role in the development of early Christian theology, as many New Testament writers quoted from it.
While the Masoretic Text (MT) is the basis for most modern Old Testament translations, the Septuagint preserves older readings and offers insight into how ancient Jewish scholars understood the Scriptures.
Why Choose an English Translation of the Septuagint?
There are several reasons why someone might prefer an English translation of the Septuagint over versions based on the Masoretic Text:
- It was widely used in the early church and influenced Christian theology.
- It sometimes differs from the Hebrew Bible, providing alternative readings.
- It includes additional books, known as the Deuterocanonical books, that are not found in the Protestant Old Testament.
- It helps in comparative biblical studies for scholars and serious Bible readers.
Top English Translations of the Septuagint
Below are some of the best English translations of the Septuagint, each with its strengths and unique qualities.
1. New English Translation of the Septuagint (NETS)
✅ Pros:
- A scholarly translation that remains close to the Greek text.
- Uses modern English while maintaining accuracy.
- Based on Alfred Rahlfs’ critical edition of the Greek text.
❌ Cons:
- Not as literal as some readers might prefer.
- Some sections are heavily influenced by the NRSV, making it more of a paraphrase in certain places.
2. Brenton’s Septuagint Translation (1851)
✅ Pros:
- A classic and widely available translation.
- Retains a literal approach to the Greek text.
- Includes the Greek text alongside the English translation (in some editions).
❌ Cons:
- Old-fashioned English can be difficult to read.
- Lacks the critical scholarship of newer translations.
3. Lexham English Septuagint (LES)
✅ Pros:
- Readable and modern English.
- Aimed at both scholars and general readers.
- Based on recent scholarly research of the Septuagint.
❌ Cons:
- Less widely known than NETS or Brenton.
- Does not always reflect the nuances of the Greek text as precisely as some other translations.
4. Orthodox Study Bible (OSB)
✅ Pros:
- A translation of the Septuagint-based Old Testament used by the Eastern Orthodox Church.
- Includes commentary and theological insights from an Orthodox Christian perspective.
- Uses New King James Version (NKJV) English style, making it familiar to many readers.
❌ Cons:
- Not a direct translation from the Septuagint text but a revision of the NKJV based on the LXX.
- May contain theological biases toward Orthodox traditions.
5. The Apostolic Bible Polyglot
✅ Pros:
- Interlinear format allows readers to compare the Greek text with the English translation.
- Useful for studying the Greek language of the Septuagint.
❌ Cons:
- More of a study tool than a standalone readable translation.
- The English phrasing can feel unnatural because of its interlinear nature.
Which Translation Is the Best?
The best English translation of the Septuagint depends on your needs and preferences:
- If you want a modern, scholarly translation, NETS is a great choice.
- If you prefer a classic, literal translation, Brenton’s Septuagint is recommended.
- If you need an easy-to-read, modern version, Lexham English Septuagint (LES) is a good option.
- If you are Orthodox Christian, the Orthodox Study Bible (OSB) is ideal.
- If you are a Greek language student, The Apostolic Bible Polyglot will be useful.
Key Factors to Consider
Before selecting a Septuagint translation, consider the following:
1. Accuracy vs. Readability
- Literal translations (Brenton, Apostolic Bible Polyglot) stay close to the Greek but may be harder to read.
- Modern translations (NETS, LES) are easier to read but may paraphrase some phrases for clarity.
2. Theological Perspective
- The Orthodox Study Bible includes theological interpretations.
- The NETS and LES are more neutral and academic.
3. Availability and Format
- Brenton’s translation is freely available online.
- NETS and LES are newer but widely available in print and digital formats.
The Septuagint is an essential biblical text, offering unique insights into the Scriptures. Finding the best English translation depends on your reading preferences, theological background, and study goals.
For academic study, NETS or LES are excellent choices. For a classic, literal approach, Brenton’s Septuagint is reliable. For Orthodox readers, the Orthodox Study Bible provides a faith-based perspective.
Regardless of the version you choose, reading the Septuagint in English can deepen your understanding of biblical history, theology, and language evolution.