The Bible wasn’t written in English. Instead, it’s in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Translations are interpretations. There is not a one-to-one correlation of words. Words can rhyme or sound similar to other words, which may not carry over into English. What else is being written outside the Bible? The Bible uses similar styles and formats.
Tools
What is the best translation? First criteria: one that you will read. Second, use multiple English translations to get a variety of opinions. When they’re translated similarly, the passage is pretty straight-forward. When they diverge, the translators are struggling more. Sometimes subtle shifts in language can illuminate different understandings of a passage. Finally, ideally, look at the original language if you have any background (or take the time to learn!). There are great tools to help look up words.
Some commentaries connect Biblical passages with similar writings outside the Bible. Alternatively pick up books with collections of ancients writings to read them yourself.
Questions
- What genre is this passage?
- What patterns are being followed?
- What is the context of the passage?
- Are there similar writings outside the Bible?
- What other ideas are out there to which this may be responding?
- What does it say in the original language?
- Where else is a word used? How is it first used?
- Where is a word used outside the Bible? (or corresponding word in a related language)
- Any references/connections to other passages?