Which Bible translation should Catholics read?

Catholics may choose from several reliable translations. Look for a Catholic edition containing all 73 books and bearing ecclesiastical approval, usually an imprimatur.

Good choices for most Catholics. In the United States, the New American Bible, Revised Edition, or NABRE, is widely used and has helpful introductions and notes. The Revised Standard Version, Second Catholic Edition, or RSV-2CE, has dignified language and is popular for serious study and devotional reading. The New Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition, or NRSV-CE, is clear and well suited to academic study. The Douay-Rheims is a venerable translation from the Latin Vulgate, though its older English can be difficult for modern readers.

What makes a Bible Catholic. A Catholic Bible includes the deuterocanonical books: Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch, 1 and 2 Maccabees, and portions of Esther and Daniel. The Church received these books as inspired Scripture within the apostolic Tradition (CCC 120). Catholic editions also receive approval from the proper Church authority, which helps ensure that the translation and notes do not contradict Catholic faith or morals (Canon 825).

Translation and interpretation. Every translation involves choices. Some aim for close correspondence to the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Others favor smooth contemporary English. A very literal translation can preserve important wording but sound awkward. A freer translation may read easily while obscuring theological connections. Paraphrases can help with an initial overview, but they should not replace an approved translation for study or doctrine. The Church asks the faithful to read Scripture while attending to the human authors, literary forms, unity of the Bible, living Tradition, and analogy of faith (CCC 109-114).

Which one to choose. For one dependable Bible, choose the NABRE or RSV-2CE. For study, comparing two approved translations can clarify difficult passages. The wording heard at Mass may differ slightly from your Bible because the liturgical books use an officially approved lectionary. The Church desires every Christian to have ready access to Scripture and urges frequent reading accompanied by prayer (CCC 131-133).

Choose a translation you can understand and will actually read. Begin with a Gospel, keep a bookmark in it, and read a short passage each day.