J. B. Phillips described his New Testament translation work as rewiring the house—with the juice on! This illustrates the truth of Hebrews 4:12:
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Even with the accumulated changes in English through the centuries, millions have been transformed by the spiritual message of the Scriptures in the KJV. Since this is true even when parts of the text are now obscure and sometimes misleading, how much sharper and more powerfully the current will come through if none of the “wires” are frayed and out of date!
The Genesis of the NKJV
Mr. Sam Moore, President of Thomas Nelson Publishers, was deeply concerned that so many Christians, though they devoutly read the King James Bible, do not fully understand it because of its archaic phraseology. This, along with his son Joe’s request for a comprehensible Bible, provided the incentive for beginning the work of revising the King James Version. After unsuccessfully approaching several foundations to sponsor this revision, Mr. Moore decided to underwrite the venture himself. He soon realized, however, that this would require a great deal of work under careful control.
Initial Conferences
In order to assure meeting the needs of public worship, Christian education, and personal reading, study, and memorization, Thomas Nelson Publishers determined to consult with informed representatives of the Bible-reading public. So, in 1975, Christian leaders, both men and women, both clergy and laity, were invited to meetings in Chicago, Illinois, Nashville, Tennessee, and London, England, to discuss the need for a revision of the King James Bible. A few of the invited guests were unable to attend any of the meetings, and a small handful of those who did come felt they could not participate in the work. The vast majority of the people who attended either the Chicago or Nashville meeting agreed to become members of the North American Overview Committee.
Mr. Maxey Jarman, a distinguished retired businessman, a Bible-class teacher at First Baptist Church of Nashville for half a century, headed up the North American Committee.
Personal participation depended largely on the time available and level of interest of individual members. It was the old story: “If you want to get something done, ask an already busy person.”
A list of the committee members will be found in Appendix C.
The North American Overview Committee
One of the main decisions of all three meetings was that thee and thou and their accompanying archaic verb forms would not be retained even in poetry and prayer. Two distinguished members who originally opted for thees and thous, at least in prayer, were Dr. Tim LaHaye of California and the Rt. Rev. Goodwin-Hudson, an Anglican bishop from England. At one point the eminent black pastor, E. V. Hill of Los Angeles, rose to his feet and dramatically instructed the convocation that if we had any desire to reach minority groups with this Bible we would have to update the seventeenth-century verb forms and pronouns. His speech helped carry the day. Contemporary pronouns and verb forms, even in poetry and prayer, became the unanimous expression of the Chicago meetings.
The Commonwealth Oversight Committee
A similar convocation was held in England in January 1976. The meetings of this group, smaller and more select than the North American committee, were held at the historic Dorchester Hotel in London.
One of the members was the Rt. Rev. Maurice Wood, Bishop of Norwich and Chaplain to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Interestingly enough, the one lady invited to attend the London meetings, Mrs. Winifred Gillespie,1 had known the bishop’s family in the 1920s from the Keswick convention. London-born, Oxford- and Toronto-bred Mrs. Gillespie, now a U.S. citizen, made notable contributions to the project, including proofreading the final galleys.
Altogether, the three conferences held in Chicago, Nashville, and London were attended by over one hundred church leaders representing a broad spectrum of biblically oriented Christianity. The consensus of these leaders was that a careful revision of the King James Bible should be made, one that would retain as much as possible of the text and language of that historic version.
By making use of the ideas and suggestions provided at these three conferences, the publishers drafted a statement of purpose and a list of guidelines.
Statement of Purpose
The following is the main body of the Statement of Purpose published by Thomas Nelson in an information brochure:
The purpose of this project is to preserve the original intended purity of the King James Version in its communication of God’s Word to man.
Insofar as is humanly and textually possible, the intention is to clarify this translation by the use of current words, grammar, and sentence structure so that this edition of the King James Version will speak to the individual reader in this final quarter of the twentieth century in as clear, simple, and accurate a manner as the original translators of the King James Version in 1611 endeavored to speak to their readers. This edition shall not add to, nor take from, nor alter the communication that was the intent of the original translators.
All participants in this project agree to sign the Statement of Faith that “The Bible (both Old and New Testaments) alone, and the Bible in its entirety (plenary), is the infallible Word of God, and is therefore the inerrant (free from error), inspired (God-breathed) Scripture, in the autographs.”
This edition shall not corrupt nor diminish the original translation but shall endeavor to speak in the late twentieth century as simply, clearly, and effectively as possible—all within the format of the original 1611 version—so that a reader of this edition may follow without confusion a reading of the original edition from the pulpit.
Guidelines
A list of instructions was drawn up to guide the scholars and editors who were to do the work. The following are the initial guidelines adopted for use:
The purpose of this project is to produce an updated English Version that follows the sentence structure of the 1611 Authorized Version as closely as possible. As much of the original King James Version as possible will be preserved. The intention is to clarify the 1611 translation by the use of current words, grammar, idioms, and sentence structure so that this edition of the King James Version will speak to the individual reader in a clear and accurate manner. The intention is not to take from or alter the basic communication of the 1611 edition but to transfer the Elizabethan word forms into twentieth-century English.
The traditional texts of the Greek and Hebrew will be used rather than modern critical texts based on the Westcott and Hort theory. Because of the continued usage of the traditional text (Textus Receptus) and the increasing number of scholars who prefer the usually similar majority text supported by the vast majority of manuscripts, it is important that a version of the Bible based on this text be available in current literary English.
In order to accomplish these goals, the following guidelines were followed:
1. Retain all doctrinal and theological words unless the Greek or Hebrew clearly indicates otherwise.
2. Retain words for items no longer in current use (i.e., chariot or phylacteries).
3. Correct all departures from the Textus Receptus. [See Chapter 10.]
4. Words that have changed meaning since 1611 should be replaced by their modern equivalents.
5. Archaic idioms should be replaced by modern equivalents.
6. Words and expressions that have become vulgar or indelicate in current English usage should be replaced by their proper equivalent. [See Chapter 7.]
7. Alter punctuation to conform with that currently used.
8. Change all Elizabethan pronouns, verb forms and other archaic words to their current equivalent.
9. Attempt to keep King James word order. However, when comprehension or readability is affected transpose or revise sentence structure.
10. Eliminate the inordinate usage of the auxiliary verb “shall.” Follow current grammatical style for these changes.
11. Attempt to keep sentences reasonably short without affecting text or meaning.
12. Attempt to use words that avoid misunderstanding.
13. When making corrections use other words already represented by the same Greek or Hebrew word in the King James if possible.
14. Capitalize all personal pronouns referring to deity.2
15. Proper names should agree with Old Testament when possible.
16. All obsolete and archaic words as defined by one or more recognized dictionaries should be replaced by their current equivalents. This applies to phrases and idioms as well.
In addition, after the printing of the first edition of the NKJV New Testament in 1979 (which used no italics), the King James tradition of italicizing supplied words was restored by popular demand of the readers. (See Chapter 4, “Italics.”)
Obsolete and Archaic Words
It is possible to overemphasize the archaic material in the KJV. The fact that millions still read it every day would indicate that much of it is still at least largely understandable. On the other hand, the Old Testament especially does use some words and expressions that are puzzling at best to most readers.
A person meeting the words ouches or firkins could always look them up. (Few do, however, and most dictionaries don’t list obsolete words.)
A greater problem is those words that are still used but have changed their meanings.
A second category consists of words that are archaic only in certain meanings, such as the following:
|
apt |
when it means |
“able” |
|
charity |
when it means |
“love” |
|
communicate |
when it means |
“share” |
|
conversation |
when it means |
“conduct” or “citizenship” |
|
exceeding |
when used as: |
an adverb (i.e. “exceeding wise”) |
|
except |
when it means |
“unless” |
|
issue |
when it means |
“flow” or “discharge” |
|
meat |
when it means |
“food” |
|
mine |
when it means |
“my” |
|
press |
when it means |
“crowd” |
|
put away |
when it means |
“divorce” |
|
quick or quickened |
when it means |
“alive” |
|
room |
when it means |
“place” |
|
save |
when it means |
“but,” “only,” or “but only” |
|
scarce |
when used as: |
an adverb (i.e. “scarce perceive”) |
|
several |
when it means |
“individual” |
|
singleness |
when it means |
“sincerity” |
|
sore |
when it means |
“very” |
|
space |
when it refers to: |
a time concept |
|
strange |
when it means |
“foreign” |
|
stranger |
when it means |
“foreigner” |
|
straw |
when it means |
“scatter” |
|
suffer |
when it means |
“let” or “allow” |
|
table |
when it means |
“tablet” |
|
touching |
when it means |
“concerning” |
|
tribute |
when it means |
“tax” |
|
wax |
when it means |
“grow” or “become” |
The NKJV Philosophy: Proven Tradition
Rather than trying to start a “new tradition,” the philosophy behind the New King James Version is that of the proven tradition which began in 1526 with the linguistic genius William Tyndale.
The Initial Translations
Translators excelling in the original languages from all segments of conservative Christianity from all over the English-speaking world were enlisted for the first phase—the revision of individual books. In order to encourage adherence to the KJV text as much as possible, the very first draft was actually made on enlarged, giant-print pages of the King James Bible.
Translators were chosen for books partly according to their interest and special training. For example, the late Dr. E. M. Blaiklock of New Zealand, a classical scholar, revised the Book of Acts. After receiving my comments on his revision of chapters one and two, this fine scholar completed the book, adhering so closely to the guidelines that there was little work for the New Testament editor to do.
For a list of these translators see Appendix A.
The Editorial Phase
Needless to say, not all translators were as close to the mark as Dr. Blaiklock. Some scholars made too few changes, leaving some archaic or borderline expressions.
One or two revisers deviated too far from the King James translation. One New Testament Epistle was very easy to read and nicely done, but was far removed from the traditional phrasing. These deviations from the guidelines were corrected in subsequent editing.
On the whole the revisers’ work was outstanding, not surprisingly, in light of the caliber of scholars chosen.
It was a joy and privilege for the three main Editors—Dr. William McDowell, Dr. James Price, and myself—to spend hours every day interacting with these typescripts.3
In some cases, especially in the Old Testament, the work was reviewed by an editorial assistant who did the preliminary work. This consisted of reviewing the manuscript, marking the places requiring attention, and providing helpful notes, data, and suggestions for the Executive Editor.
The advice of experts and consultants was obtained to resolve difficult problems. For example, when “goodly pearls” was to be updated, we called a jeweler to see what he would call them. In revising the sections in Leviticus regarding parts of animals, Dr. Price conferred with veterinarians and other experts. (See Appendix A for a list of Consultants.)
The English Editing Phase
All edited typescripts were carefully reviewed by our English Editor, Dr. William McDowell, who made the necessary corrections and revisions associated with English grammar and style. Strict attention was given to maintaining the standard of literary excellence of the King James tradition. McDowell worked closely with Dr. Price and myself to make sure all changes conformed to the original languages.4 The Bible Editorial Department of Thomas Nelson prepared the revised typescripts.
The Early Review Phase
The revised typescript of each book was sent to several reviewers. A copy was sent to the initial translator and several other scholars. In addition a copy was sent to several members of the Overview and Oversight Committees, and to other reviewers and consultants. These reviewers provided practical and scholarly comments and suggestions. All comments and suggestions were carefully reviewed by the Old and New Testament Editors for discussion with the Executive Review Committee.
When this review phase was over, we thought it was time to proceed with publication. But President Moore decided to establish what he called an “Executive Review Committee” for each Testament. Each committee would go over every verse again to ensure uniformity of treatment, accuracy, and acceptability by the public.
The Executive Review Phase
Mr. Moore proved to be right. The efforts of the Executive Review Committee (ERC) greatly enhanced the quality of the finished product. The many long meetings and the delay in publication were well worth the added investment of time and finances.
The combination of the months spent with a laymen’s group, led by Mr. Maxey Jarman in early days, and with the ERC in the last years of the work, stretched out the preparation of the Bible to seven years (1975–1982)—coincidentally as much time as was taken to prepare the first King James Version (1604–1611).
The Executive Review Committees, under the leadership of the Old and New Testament Executive Editors and the English Editor, met periodically to consider the suggested changes made by the reviewers. Meetings often lasted a week or two, and were held in a number of North American cities, including Nashville, Toronto, San Diego, Chattanooga, and Ft. Worth. Strict attention was given to maintaining the guidelines and good literary standards. Each suggested change was carefully considered, and the decision of the committee determined the final form of the text. Dr. McDowell was present in the committee meetings and gave judgment on all matters of grammar and style. Any changes in the text following the committee’s deliberations were approved by the committee in subsequent sessions.
The New Testament Executive Review Committee
It was my privilege to chair this committee at every meeting except one.5 On that occasion Dr. Harry Sturz of Biola was chairman pro tem.
The other members of the New Testament ERC were Dr. Robert Hughes, Dr. Alfred Martin, Dr. Robert Reymond, and Dr. Curtis Vaughan.
Dr. William McDowell, our very experienced English stylist and editor from Canada,6 was also active on this committee in keeping “Hellenistic English” out of the final typescript! See Appendix B for the scholars’ credentials.
As we worked around large tables with lexicons, ancient versions, and modern translations opened to the passage under review, the hours, days, and years passed quickly and without harsh disputes. All were persuaded that we had divine direction in the work. Each session was opened with prayer for wisdom.
The Old Testament Executive Review Committee
The executive review sessions for the New Testament were completed in 1978. At that point I was asked to join the sessions of the Old Testament ERC. These began in 1979 and were concluded in 1981. The final session of the Old Testament Executive Review Committee was held at St. Andrews University, in St. Andrews, Scotland, during the month of July.
Beginning in 1979, the year the New Testament was published, James D. Price, who holds degrees from both evangelical (Los Angeles Baptist Seminary) and Jewish (Dropsie College for Hebrew and Cognate Learning, Philadelphia) institutions, led the Old Testament scholars with dignity and expertise. His encyclopedic knowledge of the Hebrew text, vocabulary, and syntax were impressive.
Again, Dr. McDowell persisted in encouraging the use of standard English, rather than “Anglo-Semitic.”
The other members of the Old Testament ERC were Dr. David Garland, Dr. Herbert Livingston, Dr. Paul Gilchrist, Dr. Roland K. Harrison, and myself. See Appendix B for these scholars’ credentials.
After the New Testament ERC finished its deliberations in 1978, I was appointed Executive Editor of the Bible project as a whole.
Thus it was my privilege to attend all meetings of both Executive Review Committees, except for the last week in Scotland when the two committees met separately and simultaneously. For those meetings I chaired the New Testament group again, which was a nostalgic experience after three years of no New Testament meetings.
The Scottish Sessions
During our month at St. Andrews University, Thomas Nelson Publishers treated us to an historic and delightful weekend holiday through the lovely Lake District in the North of England. We visited Durham Cathedral, the burial site of the renowned church historian, the Venerable Bede.7 We also spent the night in an English castle, and on the way back to St. Andrews we visited Bobbie Burns’s cottage and monument.
Some of us visited Stirling Castle in Scotland, the birthplace of King James himself. Bill McDowell and I, both admirers of the revered Scottish saint, Robert Murray M’Cheyne (1813–1843), made a pilgrimage to his church and tomb at Dundee. On the way home we missed the bus. As night fell we sat on a bench as I read one of M’Cheyne’s sermons to Bill. It was a spiritual high point of our Scottish adventure.
Anglo-American Cooperation
The Old Testament Committee held a joint meeting with some of the members of the British Oversight Committee on Thursday, July 23, 1981. Those British members present were: the Rev. Mr. Raymond Brown, Mr. Edward England, Mr. David K. Porter, Sir J. Eric Richardson, the Rev. Mr. David Wheaton, and Mr. William J. Cameron. The progress of the project was reviewed, and there was a profitable exchange of ideas. In the afternoon the Executive Review Committee sat in session with the British scholars participating. Sir Eric Richardson, who had recently been knighted by the Queen, was especially interested to see how we were handling the concept of leprosy, especially in the Old Testament. Dr. R. K. Harrison, who also has a strong medical background, assured him that we would have suitable explanatory footnotes in the Old Testament on this difficult issue.
During the last week of July the New Testament Committee also met in St. Andrews to consider proposed changes to the New Testament text and to meet in joint session with the Old Testament Committee. Numerous improvements to the New Testament were approved.
The Old Testament Committee finished work on the Book of Malachi at 9:45 A.M. on Tuesday, July 28. Members of the New Testament Committee, along with some of the wives, were present to witness the finale. When the last verse was completed, we all rose and sang the Doxology. Our beloved coordinator, Rev. Robert Sanford of Thomas Nelson, Nashville, his voice broken with emotion, led us in prayer, followed by prayers by Dr. Price, Dr. McDowell, and myself. This was a time of great rejoicing and praise to God. The rest of the day was spent resolving technical problems held from previous meetings.
The work on the Old Testament as a whole officially ended on Wednesday, July 29, 1981, the day of the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana. On that day work began at 6:30 A.M., but we took a break from 10:25 A.M. to 1:30 A.M. to watch the royal wedding on television, thus joining the British Commonwealth and its people in their celebration. We were pleased that the service used the Authorized Version. By unanimous vote of the committee, our work on the complete Bible officially ended at 6:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 30, when the Old Testament Committee met in joint session with the New Testament Committee.
Typesetting and Printing Phase
Typesetting and production of the Bibles, performed by means of the most advanced computer technology, was coordinated by the Bible Editorial Department of Thomas Nelson. Typesetting was begun as soon as the Pentateuch had passed through the hands of the Executive Review Committee. Succeeding blocks of text were typeset as the committee work was completed. The Executive Editors and English Editor assisted in reading the galleys. There were thirteen proofreaders of the New Testament. The last proofreader, Mrs. Gillespie, found the pronoun “He” capitalized where it referred, not to the Deity, but to Herod!
The first edition of the New Testament was issued in 1979. The next production was the New Testament with Psalms, published in 1980. The complete Bible appeared on August 2, 1982. Interestingly, this was six hundred years after John Wycliffe issued the first English Bible in 1382.
Notes
1. Mrs. Gillespie is the daughter of the well-known Anglican scholar and Bible-teacher, W. H. Griffith Thomas. Dr. Thomas was principal of Wycliffe Hall, Oxford, later professor of Old Testament at Wycliffe College, Toronto, and one of the founders of Dallas Theological Seminary in 1924.
2. The British usage editions of the NKJV do not capitalize these pronouns.
3. During much of this laborious yet joyous time in my life, my office was located in my home. Each day as I worked there on the NKJV, the manuscripts were guarded and even occasionally “autographed” with paw prints by my faithful canine companion, Mr. Chips (named for the character in the classic English book and film, Goodbye Mr. Chips).
4. We were fortunate in that our English Editor also had been through the disciplines of Hebrew and Greek at Westminster Seminary.
5. During the seven-year project I had my gall bladder removed in 1978 and quadruple bypass surgery in 1980.
6. Dr. McDowell hails from Windsor, Nova Scotia and studied in Toronto, Philadelphia, and Orlando.
7. While a senior at seminary I did an oil painting of the interior of this great Norman cathedral, based on an old woodcut, so it was a thrill to see that interior in the actual colors.