At best, translation from one language to another is very difficult and sometimes inaccurate. Perhaps you have had the pleasure of trying to figure out the assembly instructions of something imported from Japan, China or maybe Germany. You didn't have to read very far before it became clear that the person writing was not speaking English as a first language. Some instructions I've seen have varied from confusing to downright funny---and even Bible translators have had some similar problems.
For instance, The Douay Confraternity Version (a Roman Catholic version) of the Old Testament. First published by the English College at Douay France in 1609 reads: "And Aaron and the children of Israel seeing the face of Moses horned, were afraid to come near." Exodus 34:30. Actually this version is based on an earlier version that led the artist Michelangelo (1475-1564) to create a statue of Moses with horns sticking out of his head. The statue pictured with this article is located in the Church of Saint Peter in Chains in Rome. A more modern translation reads: "When Aaron and the others looked at Moses, they saw that his face was shining, and they were afraid to go near him." Exodus 34:30 CEV.
Another example of a word misplaced is, "And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people." Acts 12:4. The word "Easter" does not belong. The use of the word "Easter" is an unfortunate one, the proper word should have been "Passover." The entire Passover feast was meant, not just the conclusion of it. Peter was arrested about the beginning of the Passover feast and the king's intention was to deal with him after the feast had ended. Scholars believe that some well meaning translator included the word Easter to make it easier for the common folk to understand. It seems obvious that no malice was intended. A more accurate version is found in the Douay Confraternity Version (A Roman Catholic version) which reads, "After arresting him he cast him into prison, committing the custody of him to four guards of soldiers, four in each guard, intending to bring him forth to the people after the Passover."
So, does these examples prove the Bible to be unreliable? Hardly. However, they do point out what can happen when one doggedly holds an opinion. Indeed the Bible says, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." The little problem here was not what was said, but who translated it. The Bible has stood the test of time even when men sometimes do not do it justice. I wonder if Michelangelo was smiling all the time he was carving those horns?

Blessings in your study of God's Word!

Marvin Hunt

There is never a charge for my articles, and if you have a good reason, there is no limit to how many you may request. However, if you find them valuable you may want to order my latest book, History, Mystery and Facts About the Bible. Order at 1-800-845-7618 (ext. 301). You may also order from Amazon.com. Proceeds from the book go to support this ministry.

Blessings!
Marvin Hunt

Http://www.biblehistory.com

p.s. A new column is posted weekly. Be sure and bookmark the site or put it on your favorites list.