OSB - Old Testament Project

Did you know that...

The Latin versions of the Old Testament were first made in North Africa and Western Europe and were derived from the Septuagint?
In the last few centuries before Christ, Greek was the language most commonly used in Palestine and the Middle East?
In the writing of the apostles, the Septuagint version is quoted almost exclusively?

Collage of LXX images

Fequently asked questions...

Q: When will the complete OSB be available for purchase?

A: Spring, 2008, is our hope. Click here to read the Status Update.

Q: Why is another translation of the Bible needed?

A: Take a look at what we are doing. The Old Testament of the Orthodox Church is that which it has been from the beginning the Septuagint, that Greek version already in use when Christ came. It was the Bible used by him and the Apostles. The King James Version and other English language versions are made from the Masoretic Hebrew text which dates from about the 9th century A.D. Our translation of the Septuagint is essential for Orthodox Christians in America. Not only that, but we are making a Study Bible, with Orthodox notes throughout.

Q: Is the LXX project a complete translation of the Septuagint into modern English? It seems like that would be a much larger project than I see here.

A: You see as thorough a translation as that to be found anywhere. We are taking the New King James Version as a starting point -- "boilerplate" you might say -- and changing it everywhere it is different from the Septuagint. The result will indeed be a Septuagint translation.

Q: How are you paying for this effort?

A: Contributions from all who see the need for this work. And believe me, we need every penny we can get. We have a budget of $1,680,000, spread over five years, and we have raised about $350,000.

Q: I am literate in Greek. Can I help translate?

A: Just get in touch with us!

Q: I am ignorant in Greek. How can I help?

A: Help with the web site. Give funds as you are able. Find others who will give. Get in touch with us!

Q: Is there any English translation of the Septuagint available to me now?

A: There is a version done in 1851 by Sir Lancelot Brenton in England. It has the so-called "Apocryphal books" separate from the usual Protestant collection rather than having the books in the order they are in the Septuagint, is archaic in language, often difficult to read, and sometimes inaccurate.

Q: Where can I buy a copy of the Orthodox Study Bible: New Testament and Psalms?

A: Conciliar Press has a paperbound version for $24.95, a hardback version for $30.95, and a leatherbound version for $50.95. Click here for more info.