The New English Bible

The New English Bible (NEB) is a modern English translation of the Bible, first published in full in 1970. It was produced by a broad committee of scholars from various denominations in the United Kingdom, with the goal of creating a clear and contemporary translation of the Scriptures, faithful to the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts while also reflecting the best of modern literary English.

The NEB is known for its distinctive and elegant style, aiming to communicate the message of the Bible with both accuracy and literary beauty. Unlike many translations that follow a more traditional or literal approach, the NEB sought to capture the sense and spirit of the original writings in a way that would resonate with modern readers. This makes it especially suitable for reading aloud and for those seeking a fresh perspective on familiar passages.

In 1989, the NEB was revised and replaced by the Revised English Bible (REB), which refined and updated the translation while maintaining its commitment to clarity and readability. Nonetheless, the NEB remains valued by many for its scholarship, unique phrasing, and contribution to modern biblical literature.