One challenge the translators faced was in determining how to translate accurately the ancient biblical text that was originally written in a context where male-oriented terms were used to refer to humanity generally. They needed to respect the nature of the ancient context while also trying to make the translation clear to a modern audience that tends to read male-oriented language as applying only to males. Often the original text, though using masculine nouns and pronouns, clearly intends that the message be applied to both men and women. One example is found in the New Testament epistles, where the believers are often called "brothers" (adelphoi). Yet it is clear that these epistles were addressed to all the believers--male and female. In such contexts the NLT translates this Greek word "brothers and sisters" in order to represent the historical situation more accurately. The NLT is also sensitive to passages where the text applies generally to human beings or to the human condition. In many instances the NLT uses plural pronouns (they, them) in place of the masculine singular (he, him). It should be emphasized that all masculine nouns and pronouns used to represent God (for example, "Father") have been maintained without exception. The translators believe that essential traits of God's revealed character can be conveyed only through the masculine language expressed in the original texts of Scripture. |
