The Darby Translation (formal title: The Holy Scriptures: A New Translation Taken From the Original Languages by J.N. Darby) is a faithful rendering of the Bible into English, completed by John Nelson Darby. A prominent theologian and leader of the Plymouth Brethren movement, Darby was deeply committed to providing a translation that was both accurate and accessible to the everyday reader. This version, completed in 1890, reflects his dedication to preserving the integrity of the original Hebrew and Greek texts.
One of the distinctive features of the Darby Translation is its use of "Jehovah" to represent the Tetragrammaton, the divine name of God, instead of the traditional "LORD" or "GOD" in all capitals seen in other English translations. This choice underscores Darby's intent to faithfully convey the nuances of the original languages.
Darby was a multilingual scholar who also translated the Bible into French and German. In his introduction to the 1890 German edition, he wrote: "The aim of this translation is not to present an academic work for the learned, but to offer a faithful translation for the simple, uneducated reader." This philosophy has made the Darby Translation a cherished resource for those seeking a literal and precise interpretation of the Scriptures.
Over the years, the Darby Translation has been valued by theologians and believers alike for its emphasis on accuracy. It has had a lasting impact on biblical studies, particularly among evangelical communities and those focused on a direct understanding of God’s Word.