New American Bible

Main characteristics

The translation draws on the Bible's original languages (Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek) and incorporates the Catholic canon, including the deuterocanonical books. It is known for:

• clear contemporary English style aimed at readability;
• extensive scholarly notes and book introductions geared to a Catholic readership;
• use in both private study and public worship in English-speaking Catholic communities.

History and development

Portions of the work, notably the New Testament, were released in the 1960s, and a complete edition appeared around 1970. The translation was prepared under the oversight of U.S. Catholic scholarly bodies and bishops. Over subsequent decades it underwent revisions and updates to reflect advances in biblical scholarship and language usage.

Revisions, use and importance

Later editions have sought to balance fidelity to ancient texts with contemporary readability; a notable revision appeared in the 21st century. The New American Bible has served as a principal English Catholic translation in the United States and has influenced liturgical lectionaries and study materials. Its study notes and introductions make it a common choice for catechesis and academic courses.

Distinctions and notable facts: Unlike many Protestant translations, the New American Bible includes the deuterocanonical books and editorial material reflecting Catholic tradition. It remains one of several approved English translations; its production involved collaboration among Catholic scholars, bishops and publishing bodies. For more background see related summaries on translations and Catholic scriptural practice: Roman Catholic translation, English.