The Gospels

Starred review from December 21, 2020
Ruden (The Face of Water) wrestles fresh meaning from Christianity’s sacred texts in her startling new translation of the four Gospels. Working from the original Greek text and within the context of the ancient Greco-Roman-Jewish era, Ruden strives to rescue a “defensively hermetic” text from “under the muffling, alien weight of later Christian institutions.” The result makes the familiar unfamiliar and intriguing. Faith and believe are translated as “trust”; one does not repent but “changes purpose”; disciples is rendered as “students”; and Jesus is not crucified but “hung on the stakes.” When Jesus comes to raise his friend Lazarus from the dead, Ruden uses the affecting formulation that Jesus “howls within.” Ruden also appealingly modernizes many scenes, such as Pilate, after having Jesus whipped, saying, “Look at this guy.” Thousands of her word choices differ from common translations, and footnotes provide essential pithy explanations of her reasoning, as do a lengthy introduction and a “discursive glossary” of key terms. This audacious translation is essential reading for anyone who thinks they already know the Gospels. Agent: Gail Hochman, Brandt & Hochman.

February 1, 2021

Is there a need for another translation of biblical books? This question might immediately come to mind when considering this new translation of the four Gospels. Yet, Ruden is one of the leading translators of ancient classical literature and has taken a unique and innovative approach in this latest book. Her goal is to directly present the Gospels, allowing readers to easily interact with and respond to them. Her translation draws closely from the Greek text, showing clearly such elements as wordplay, humor, color, and imagery. She also takes care to translate with contemporary readers in mind, avoiding words and phrases that might be misleading or unclear. As a result, her translation refers to Jesus as a builder rather than a carpenter, and the apostles as envoys. It states that Jesus was wretched with pity instead of showing compassion. Although some passages may be awkward to those unfamiliar with the Gospels, this accessible translation is overall a welcome addition for all interested in a better understanding of the books of Mark, Matthew, Luke, and John. VERDICT An instructive and thought-provoking translation of the Gospels, and their historical context, that will interest a variety of readers, from students to scholars.--John Jaeger, Johnson Univ., Knoxville, TN

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