Formal equivalence, often referred to as literal translation, prioritizes fidelity to the original language’s grammatical structure and vocabulary. This approach strives to match each word of the source text with a corresponding word in the target language. For instance, if a Hebrew verse uses a specific verb tense, a formal equivalent translation will aim to use the same tense in English, even if it sounds slightly unnatural. This method prioritizes accuracy at the individual word level.
The primary advantage of this translation philosophy lies in its potential to preserve nuances of the original text, providing scholars and theologians with a close approximation of the source material for in-depth study. Historically, this approach was favored due to a belief in the inherent sanctity of the biblical text. By maintaining a strict adherence to the original wording, translators aimed to avoid misinterpretations. This approach can also be helpful for those learning biblical languages, allowing them to compare the original text with a close translation.
