Comparing Luke 2:28-33

Then Simeon took the child in his arms and praised God by saying,
“Now, Lord, you are allowing your servant to leave in peace
as you promised.
My eyes have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared for all people to see.
He is a light that will reveal salvation to the nations
and bring glory to your people Israel.”
Jesus’ father and mother were amazed at what was said about him.
GOD’S WORD Translation (GW)
Meaning-for-Meaning (Closest Natural Equivalence)

Simeon took him in his arms and blessed God, saying,
“Now, according to your word, Sovereign Lord, permit your servant to depart in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation
that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples:
a light,
for revelation to the Gentiles,
and for glory to your people Israel.”
So the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him.
New English Translation (NET)
Word-for-Word (Formal Equivalence)

Simeon took the baby in his arms and thanked God:
“Now, Lord, you can let me, your servant,
die in peace as you said.
With my own eyes I have seen your salvation,
which you prepared before all people.
It is a light for the non-Jewish people to see
and an honor for your people, the Israelites.”
Jesus’ father and mother were amazed at what Simeon had said about him.
New Century Version (NCV)
Thought-for-Thought (Functional Equivalence)

Simeon took the baby Jesus in his arms and praised God,
“Lord, I am your servant,
and now I can die in peace,
because you have kept
your promise to me.
With my own eyes I have seen
what you have done
to save your people,
and foreign nations
will also see this.
Your mighty power is a light
for all nations,
and it will bring honor
to your people Israel.”
Jesus’ parents were surprised at what Simeon had said.
Contemporary English Version (CEV)
Paraphrase (Retelling)

Visit our Bible Translation Guide for more information about the major differences between the clear, natural English of God’s Word and other translations.