Choosing the Chinese Bible Translation

One common question that arises whenever I visit a church or speak with believers is: “What is the best Chinese Bible translation to use?” The answer is not straightforward.

In Bible translation circles, we use the term “translations” rather than “versions” for clarity. Any Bible in a language other than the original text is a translation, and each may have multiple versions. For example, what we refer to as the Chinese Union Version (CUV, 和合本) encompasses a broader concept nowadays. It often links to the Chinese Union Version produced in 1962 (sometimes called the Old CUV), the widely used Chinese Union New Punctuation Version (新标点和合本, CUnp1989) published in 1989, and the Revised Chinese Union Version (RCUV, 和合本修订本), which was later renamed CUV 2010 (和合本2010版) for promotional purposes. In mainland China, the approved CUV for publication is based on CUnp1989, though it includes modifications to names and geographical terms to suit modern mainland readers.

Some may assume that Chinese Bible translation resources are limited, but that’s not entirely accurate. The United Bible Societies have been carrying out an extensive Bible digitization project, preserving texts and creating digital archives in many languages. This project revealed that while English has the highest number of translations, Chinese ranks third after Spanish, with over 80 complete or partial translations.

Dr. Simon Wong (黄锡木), a translation consultant with the United Bible Societies, authored The Panorama of the Chinese Bibles (《中文圣经一览》) in 2022. This book provides a comprehensive timeline of Chinese Bible translations, alongside key original language editions and notable English translations. The timeline includes over 180 entries, tracing Chinese Bible history from the Xi’an Stele (大秦景教流行中国碑) to the most recent translation, the Worldwide New Chinese Translation (环球圣经译本). Each entry is concise, offering a clear introduction and overview of the particular translation. The quality of the book led to its official approval and recommendation for publication in mainland China. It remains an invaluable resource for those exploring the history and development of Chinese Bibles.

Which Translation Should You Choose?

There are two key factors to consider when selecting a Bible translation.

Firstly, all translations build on prior versions. As Dr Wong notes in The Panorama of the Chinese Bibles:

Bible translations are interpretations of the source language text. No translation of the Chinese Bible is unaffected by the merits and shortcomings of the original language editions of its time, nor do they exist in isolation from English Bible translations, as most Chinese translations were not directly translated from the original biblical languages, but were translated from or modelled after English versions.

This layered approach can shift nuances over time. However, the availability of multiple translations is a blessing for Chinese Christians. Early missionary efforts laid the foundation, and recent contributions by Chinese translators outside mainland China have enriched the landscape. For those deeply engaged with the Bible, comparing translations helps capture the text’s full meaning. The growing availability of interlinear Bibles, which present Chinese alongside original language texts, is also a valuable tool for deeper study.

Secondly, translators typically have a specific audience in mind. Factors such as whether it’s the first translation in a language or how it compares to existing ones influence the process. In the case of Chinese Bible translations, geopolitical factors and team dynamics have historically played a role—each significant translation could warrant a documentary on its creation. Ultimately, there is no “perfect” translation—only the one that best suits the reader’s language ability, comprehension, church tradition, and spiritual context.

Recommendations for Choosing and Using Translations

Start with a credible translation: For new believers or younger congregations, it is wise to begin with a reliable and faithful translation of the Bible. A strong foundation in Scripture is crucial for spiritual growth, and God will speak through any faithful version, regardless of its nuances. While the Chinese Union Version (CUV, 和合本) remains the most widely used translation in Chinese-speaking communities, the newly published Worldwide New Chinese Translation (环球圣经译本) is a modern alternative, offering clearer language and accessibility for today’s readers. For younger readers or overseas Chinese who may not be familiar with classical Chinese, Today’s Chinese Version (现代中文译本, TCV) provides a simpler, contemporary option that resonates more with their linguistic context.

Engage with multiple translations: For those seeking a deeper understanding of Scripture, engaging with multiple translations is invaluable. Each translation captures unique nuances of the original text, enriching the reader’s comprehension of God’s Word. Whether comparing between the Chinese versions, reading a Chinese translation alongside an English version, or studying the original Greek or Hebrew texts, this practice fosters deeper reflection and insight. Reading from different traditions, such as the Sigao Translation (思高圣经) in the Catholic tradition, can also be highly beneficial. It offers fresh insights and allows believers to appreciate the richness of Scripture through diverse theological lenses. Exploring translations beyond one single version broadens perspectives, deepens spiritual growth, and makes Scripture more relevant and meaningful across diverse contexts.

Reflect on the ongoing need for engagement: As highlighted in my article, “The Last Mile: Navigating the Challenges of Chinese Bible Engagement,” Bible translation is an ongoing mission. Translators must continue to produce faithful, accessible translations for new generations. Equally important, publishers and distributors must ensure these translations are available in both print and digital formats, reaching believers across all societal levels. Ultimately, each of us has a role in this process. We must approach the abundance of translations as gifts from God, committing to study, reflection, and obedience, so that the Word of God may transform our lives and communities.

References

• 黄锡木著。《中文圣经一览 – 管窥上帝在中国的作为》。中国基督教协会出版，2023。 This book can be purchased from Shanghai CCC bookshop which is located at Jiujiang Road.
• Lydia Law, “The Last Mile: Navigating the Challenges of Chinese Bible Engagement,” ChinaSource Blog, July 12, 2024, accessed October 29, 2024,  https://www.chinasource.org/resource-library/blog-entries/the-last-mile/.

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