The Voice of Psalms: Ancient but Fresh

Bible translations are a dime a dozen, especially when one is familiar with many of the Scriptures early in life. While I’m often skeptical of new translations delivering on their promises, I had some previous exposure to The Voice project’s New Testament “translation,” so I was very interested in reading a poetic and artistic rendition of the The Voice of Psalms. After all, what more appropriate book to be rendered by artists and poets than a book originally written by them?

Instantly upon receiving the book, it was apparent that the entire project—from type to touch—was crafted by artists. The beautiful full-color background and typeface invites the reader into the world of the ancient authors. Unlike other translations promising freshness, to my surprise and delight this one truly delivers. Psalms are by-and-large emotional poems, and this translation captures the depth and accuracy of the emotional fervor of the Hebrew text while maintaining a contemporary voice. The words don’t feel ancient, yet the writing was transcendent, as if I were reading a contemporary-yet-ancient expression of passionate and heart-felt musings. It also contains reflective “devotional” annotations on just about every page.

While I am not a scholar who can comment on the translation accuracy of The Voice of Psalms, I wholeheartedly recommend this artistic rendition of the psalms for its refined, poignant, and expressive value to any reader. It is certainly well worth the investment.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”