P061 The Proposed Revision.
P061 The Proposed Revision.
It must be borne in mind that this is not to be a new translation, but only a careful revision of the present version.
Judging from the misquotations of Scripture we frequently hear, the difference between the revised version and the present will scarcely be noticeable to ordinary hearers, for it will not be so great as the difference between many passages as they are printed and as they are commonly quoted. The following general principles were laid down at the outset to direct the revisers, both English and American:—
1. To introduce as few alterations as possible into the text of the Authorized Version consistently with faithfulness.
2. To limit, as far as possible, the expression of such alterations to the language of the authorized and earlier English versions.
3. Each company to go twice over the portion to be revised, once provisionally, the second time finally, and on principles of voting as hereinafter is provided.
4. That the text to be adopted be that for which the evidence is decidedly preponderating, and that when the text so adopted differs from that from which the Authorized Version was made, the alteration be indicated in the margin.
5. To make or retain no change in the text, on the second final revision by each company, except two thirds of those present approve of the same; but on the first revision to decide by simple majorities.
6. In every case of proposed alteration that may have given rise to discussion, to defer the voting thereupon till the next meeting, whensoever the same shall be required by one third of those present at the meeting, such intended vote to be announced in the notice for the next meeting.
7. To revise the headings of chapters, pages, paragraphs, italics, and punctuation.
8. To refer on the part of each company, when considered desirable, to divines, scholars, and literary men, whether at home or abroad, for their opinions.(1) The reasons assigned for the necessity of a revision are numerous and weighty.
------------ (FN1)"The Revision of the English Version," etc. Int., p. xi.
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