2016/11/10 by Fred N. Reiner · 1 citation
Arts and Humanities · #Biblical Studies and Interpretation
paper · doi:10.1515/opth-2016-0074
openalex publication_date 2016/11/10 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/05/21
Abstract Our translation of biblical passages, and our selection of translations, has an effect on their liturgical use and the values we teach. By choosing a gender-neutral translation we may make a statement of gender inclusion, but at the same time some worshipers may find the change from a familiar translation jarring. Should we sacrifice the value of inclusion for the comfort of a familiar text? Psalm 23 is a case in point. The strong masculine imagery of the psalm, and its well-known translation, put off those who seek gender-neutral language for prayer and sacred texts. But do the King James and RSV translations, or a modernized version, have inherent sacredness, as well as comfort through their familiarity? This paper explores the nuances of some of the issues involved in a gender-neutral translation of Psalm 23 (and other texts) within the liturgical context of the synagogue.