What verses are missing from the New American Standard Bible?

The New American Standard Bible (NASB) is one of the most respected translations of the Bible, renowned for its commitment to word-for-word accuracy and its literal approach to the original texts. However, many readers have observed that some verses present in other translations, such as the King James Version (KJV) or the New International Version (NIV), are either omitted or altered in the NASB. This can be confusing for those who are deeply familiar with the traditional texts. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind these omissions and identify the specific verses that are missing from the NASB.

Understanding the Translation Philosophy

Before diving into the specific verses, it is crucial to understand the translation philosophy of the NASB. The translators aimed to create a version of the Bible that would remain true to the original languages—Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek—while still being comprehensible to modern readers. To achieve this, they focused on a more literal approach than many other translations, prioritizing accuracy over dynamic equivalence, which might favor readability by paraphrasing or rewording certain passages.

This commitment to closely following the ancient texts leads to the next significant point: the source material used for translations. The NASB relies on the most reliable and scholarly accepted manuscripts available, and in doing so, it may exclude verses that are found only in later manuscripts or more dubious historical sources.

Verses Commonly Omitted

While it's impossible to list every instance where the NASB differs from other translations, here are some of the more notable verses that are missing or altered significantly:

Matthew 17:21

In the KJV, this verse states: “Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” However, it is notably absent from the NASB. This omission arises because many early Greek manuscripts do not include this verse, suggesting that it may have been added later.

Matthew 18:11

Another verse not found in the NASB is Matthew 18:11: “For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.” Similar to Matthew 17:21, this verse is believed to be a later addition, as it is only found in some later manuscripts.

Mark 9:44 and 9:46

Both of these verses, which reference the worm that dies not and the fire that is not quenched, are missing from the NASB. They are essentially repeated verses that appear in verse 48, which is the reason for their exclusion in a more concise translation.

Luke 17:36

This verse reads, “Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken and the other left.” It is absent from the NASB due to the lack of support from the earliest and most reliable manuscripts.

John 7:53-8:11

The story of the woman caught in adultery is another passage that has a complex history. While it is included in some other translations, the NASB includes a footnote that indicates that many manuscripts do not contain this passage.

Acts 8:37

In the context of Philip's conversation with the Ethiopian eunuch, the NASB omits this verse where the eunuch confesses his faith before baptism. This omission is based on the absence of evidence in the earliest manuscripts.

Why Are These Verses Missing?

Understanding why certain verses are omitted or altered can help clarify the reasoning behind the translation choices made in the NASB. The missing verses often correlate with the use of older manuscripts that are deemed more reliable by biblical scholars. The decision to exclude specific verses often stems from a desire to adhere closely to the text as it was likely written by the apostles and early church leaders, thus reflecting a commitment to authenticity.

In academic and theological circles, this approach underscores the importance of tracing Biblical text history and understanding how the Bible has been read and interpreted over the centuries. Some verses may be true to early Christian teachings but have variations that have crept in over time.

Conclusion

While some may find the missing verses contentious, it's essential to recognize that their exclusion stems from a deep consideration for textual integrity. Readers interested in exploring these omitted verses should engage with various translations and study notes for a more comprehensive understanding of biblical scripture. By doing so, they can appreciate the complexities of biblical translation and the continued dialogue surrounding the texts we hold dear.

For those striving for a deeper spiritual journey, examining the missing verses can illuminate the intricacies of faith and interpretation, fostering a richer connection to the biblical narrative.