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First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation
Discover Psalms and Proverbs Reimagined Through the Poetic Language of Native Storytellers
Discover the rich tapestry of human emotion and divine wisdom with the First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs. The latest volume from the critically acclaimed First Nations Version translation brings the ancient Sacred Songs and Wise Sayings of the Hebrew Scriptures to life through the vibrant, poetic imagery of Native American oral storytelling.
Whether you're seeking solace, strength, or spiritual insight, the First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs will guide you with its profound expressions of praise and trust in the Creator. Step into the harmonious blend of ancient wisdom and indigenous tradition to discover a spiritual experience that speaks directly to your heart.
PLEASE When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.
Discover the rich tapestry of human emotion and divine wisdom with the First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs. The latest volume from the critically acclaimed First Nations Version translation brings the ancient Sacred Songs and Wise Sayings of the Hebrew Scriptures to life through the vibrant, poetic imagery of Native American oral storytelling.
Whether you're seeking solace, strength, or spiritual insight, the First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs will guide you with its profound expressions of praise and trust in the Creator. Step into the harmonious blend of ancient wisdom and indigenous tradition to discover a spiritual experience that speaks directly to your heart.
PLEASE When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.
Audible Audio
Published January 20, 2026
About the author
Terry M. Wildman
10 books37 followersTerry Wildman was born and raised in lower Michigan. He is of Ojibwe (Chippewa) and Yaqui ancestry. Terry is a published author, recording artist, songwriter, storyteller, and public speaker.
He is the "Chief" of Rain Ministries, a nonprofit organization based in Arizona. Since the year 2000 as "RainSong", he and his wife Darlene have invested their lives in sharing the message of Jesus with Native Americans.
Terry is the author and project manager of the First Nations Version: New Testament published by InterVarsity Press.
He is also the Director of Spiritual Growth and Leadership Development for Native InterVarsity.
RainSong has produced four music CD's: Sacred Warrior, Rising Sun, Rise Up and Dance and Hoop of Life. Their music style is a folk-rock blend with Native American instruments and melodies.
In 2004 RainSong was nominated for a Grammy award and two Nammy awards. In 2005 they won the "American Christian Music Award" for the category of "Favorite Band/Duo-Breakout." In 2008 they were nominated for two Nammy Awards, one for "Best Song of the Year," All Colors Together, and for "Best Gospel Recording" for their CD Rise Up and Dance. Terry and Darlene were presenters that year at the awards ceremony held in Niagara Falls, New York.
As RainSong Terry and Darlene have also produced a storytelling CD with a musical background called The Great Story from the Sacred Book. This CD won the Nammy (Native American Music Award) for "Best Spoken Word" in 2009. Soon after they released a booklet to complement the CD through Indian Life Ministries based in Manitoba, Canada, (indianlife.org).
He is the "Chief" of Rain Ministries, a nonprofit organization based in Arizona. Since the year 2000 as "RainSong", he and his wife Darlene have invested their lives in sharing the message of Jesus with Native Americans.
Terry is the author and project manager of the First Nations Version: New Testament published by InterVarsity Press.
He is also the Director of Spiritual Growth and Leadership Development for Native InterVarsity.
RainSong has produced four music CD's: Sacred Warrior, Rising Sun, Rise Up and Dance and Hoop of Life. Their music style is a folk-rock blend with Native American instruments and melodies.
In 2004 RainSong was nominated for a Grammy award and two Nammy awards. In 2005 they won the "American Christian Music Award" for the category of "Favorite Band/Duo-Breakout." In 2008 they were nominated for two Nammy Awards, one for "Best Song of the Year," All Colors Together, and for "Best Gospel Recording" for their CD Rise Up and Dance. Terry and Darlene were presenters that year at the awards ceremony held in Niagara Falls, New York.
As RainSong Terry and Darlene have also produced a storytelling CD with a musical background called The Great Story from the Sacred Book. This CD won the Nammy (Native American Music Award) for "Best Spoken Word" in 2009. Soon after they released a booklet to complement the CD through Indian Life Ministries based in Manitoba, Canada, (indianlife.org).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
November 3, 2026
In 2021 First Nations pastor and author Terry M. Wildman in conjunction with the First Nations Version Translation Council released First Nations Version: An Indigenous Bible Translation of the New Testament (specifically geared towards Native Americans and Native Canadians and which I have ordered but have not yet had the opportunity to read since the book was out of stock when I tried to order First Nations Version: An Indigenous Bible Translation of the New Testament for my personal bookshelves). But yes, I have indeed now read Wildman and the First Nations Version Translation Council’s more recent (this being 2025) translation of the Psalms and the Proverbs of the Old Testament (namely First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation, and indeed, the only reason why I have read First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation before First Nations Version: An Indigenous Bible Translation of the New Testament is simply that I do own a copy of First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation and did not really want to wait until I was able to obtain a copy of First Nations Version: An Indigenous Bible Translation of the New Testament).
And just to point out that I am not in any manner a Bible scholar (and that I last read the entire King James Version of the Old Testament in grade seven English, thus in the spring of 1980, so forty-six years ago). However, I have indeed massively enjoyed First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation and very much appreciate how Terry M. Wildman and his co-translators are rendering the meanings of Biblical names into something that makes spiritual and cultural sense to and for Native Americans and Canadians, then followed by the original names in parentheses (and how cultural idioms significant to indigenous peoples of North America are used in place of more familiar references in First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation as well). But well, there is in fact only one small bone of textual contention for me personally regarding First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation (albeit not enough to consider lowering my rating from five stars to, say, four) and this is that considering how many First Nations tribes actually have a matriarchy, I do wish that Wildman et al would be using more feminine language for the creator in their otherwise totally marvellous and delightful translation/adaptation. Yes, the notes for First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation also explain that masculine language is being used to adhere more closely to Judaeo-Christian Biblical tradition (and that Judaeo-Christian Biblical tradition of course is staunchly and pretty much entirely patriarchal) and I also appreciate the acknowledgement in those notes how this might equally so create tension for First Nations tribes with matriarchal societies who use feminine language for the creator. But indeed, I also think and feel how a mixture of feminine and masculine language throughout First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation would as such and definitely balance the desire to adhere to tradition while also honouring the language that matriarchal tribes would generally be using (so this is for me somewhat of a minor shortcoming).
Finally, but importantly, I personally believe and consider (even though some reviewers have indeed voiced some discomfort here) that Terry M. Wildman and the First Nations Version Translation Council using Grandfather to translate YHWH in First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation makes absolute and total sense. For considering that Grandfather is the First Nations term for the Great Spirit for many First Nations, utilising Grandfather instead of either YHWH or Lord makes First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation culturally and spiritually spot-on so to speak (and especially since in the glossary for First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation the translators also offer an extended explanation of this choice, noting the unsuitability of Lord in the cultural experience of Native Americans and Native Canadians, for whom no cultural analogue for Lord actually exists and they also note the place of honour grandfathers enjoy in indigenous culture). And while I can sort of (but only grudgingly) understand some Biblical literalists feeling frustrated and even annoyed with Wildman et al translating YHWH with Grandfather in First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation, considering that this is a Bible translation by First Nations translators for First Nations readers, in my opinion, there is not really anything AT ALL to criticise here either (and especially so since either YHWH or Lord do not really work for First Nations culture and spirituality, but using Grandfather indoors and totally does so and that in my opinion, this is what counts, this is what is significant).
In conclusion, First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation has been a wonderfully delightful both spiritual and at the same time a majorly enlightening reading experience for me, that I am also now majorly looking forward to reading First Nations Version: An Indigenous Bible Translation of the New Testament (once my copy arrives) and that I am equally so hoping that Terry M. Wildman and the First Nations Version Translation Council will in the near future be providing a translation of the rest of the Old Testament and maybe also of the Apocrypha (and Gnostic works).
And just to point out that I am not in any manner a Bible scholar (and that I last read the entire King James Version of the Old Testament in grade seven English, thus in the spring of 1980, so forty-six years ago). However, I have indeed massively enjoyed First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation and very much appreciate how Terry M. Wildman and his co-translators are rendering the meanings of Biblical names into something that makes spiritual and cultural sense to and for Native Americans and Canadians, then followed by the original names in parentheses (and how cultural idioms significant to indigenous peoples of North America are used in place of more familiar references in First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation as well). But well, there is in fact only one small bone of textual contention for me personally regarding First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation (albeit not enough to consider lowering my rating from five stars to, say, four) and this is that considering how many First Nations tribes actually have a matriarchy, I do wish that Wildman et al would be using more feminine language for the creator in their otherwise totally marvellous and delightful translation/adaptation. Yes, the notes for First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation also explain that masculine language is being used to adhere more closely to Judaeo-Christian Biblical tradition (and that Judaeo-Christian Biblical tradition of course is staunchly and pretty much entirely patriarchal) and I also appreciate the acknowledgement in those notes how this might equally so create tension for First Nations tribes with matriarchal societies who use feminine language for the creator. But indeed, I also think and feel how a mixture of feminine and masculine language throughout First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation would as such and definitely balance the desire to adhere to tradition while also honouring the language that matriarchal tribes would generally be using (so this is for me somewhat of a minor shortcoming).
Finally, but importantly, I personally believe and consider (even though some reviewers have indeed voiced some discomfort here) that Terry M. Wildman and the First Nations Version Translation Council using Grandfather to translate YHWH in First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation makes absolute and total sense. For considering that Grandfather is the First Nations term for the Great Spirit for many First Nations, utilising Grandfather instead of either YHWH or Lord makes First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation culturally and spiritually spot-on so to speak (and especially since in the glossary for First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation the translators also offer an extended explanation of this choice, noting the unsuitability of Lord in the cultural experience of Native Americans and Native Canadians, for whom no cultural analogue for Lord actually exists and they also note the place of honour grandfathers enjoy in indigenous culture). And while I can sort of (but only grudgingly) understand some Biblical literalists feeling frustrated and even annoyed with Wildman et al translating YHWH with Grandfather in First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation, considering that this is a Bible translation by First Nations translators for First Nations readers, in my opinion, there is not really anything AT ALL to criticise here either (and especially so since either YHWH or Lord do not really work for First Nations culture and spirituality, but using Grandfather indoors and totally does so and that in my opinion, this is what counts, this is what is significant).
In conclusion, First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation has been a wonderfully delightful both spiritual and at the same time a majorly enlightening reading experience for me, that I am also now majorly looking forward to reading First Nations Version: An Indigenous Bible Translation of the New Testament (once my copy arrives) and that I am equally so hoping that Terry M. Wildman and the First Nations Version Translation Council will in the near future be providing a translation of the rest of the Old Testament and maybe also of the Apocrypha (and Gnostic works).
August 16, 2025
The introduction and glossary alone are worth the price of the book.
August 26, 2025
A beautiful, imaginative translation of Psalms and Proverbs that reminds readers that Scripture is a living, breathing thing worthy of constant rediscovery.
May 6, 2025
Before I begin, I want to thank the NetGalley and the publisher for this eARC copy!
I fell in love with the New Testament First Nations Version after reading last year at the recommendation of several friends at my church. This translation brings such an important perspective that often gets missed in American culture. The scholarship involved in bringing this translation to life really shows. I cannot wait for a full bible translation!
I fell in love with the New Testament First Nations Version after reading last year at the recommendation of several friends at my church. This translation brings such an important perspective that often gets missed in American culture. The scholarship involved in bringing this translation to life really shows. I cannot wait for a full bible translation!
February 11, 2026
Summary: A true translation using idioms of the indigenous peoples of North America.
The year 2021 marked the release of a different kind of Bible translation of the New Testament. In English, the translators used the idioms of First Nations Peoples of North America to offer a meaningful translation for these indigenous people. Now, those who translated the First Nations Version of the New Testament, have published a translation of the Psalms and Proverbs. They use many of the conventions introduced in the New Testament translation, including rendering the meaning of biblical names followed by the original name in parentheses. And cultural idioms significant to indigenous peoples of North America, are used in place of more familiar references. This rendering of Psalm 1:1-2 will give you a sense of this as well as introduce the FNV rendering of YHWH, usually translated in English translations as LORD.
Harmony and well-being rest on those who do not walk the path of the bad-hearted, the ones who do notstand with those who stir up disharmony, those who will not sit in a circle where others are spoken of with scorn and disrespect.
Instead, they take joy in Grandfather’s clear instructions. As the sun and the moon circle the sky, they think deeply about his ways.
The translators chose Grandfather to translate YHWH. This is the First Nations term for the Great Spirit used by many tribal nations. In the glossary, they offer an extended explanation of this choice, noting the unsuitability of LORD in the cultural experience of Native Americans for whom no cultural analogue for “Lord” exists. Also, they note the place of honor grandfathers enjoy in indigenous cultures.
Nevertheless, I have to admit I struggled with the term, while realizing that I am a cultural outsider. I do miss the assertion of God’s self-existence in YHWH, that all else derives its existence from YHWH. But I don’t have a better translation suggestion.
That aside, just as I found the New Testament rendering both fresh and accurate, so it was here. And for the Psalms, this is a freshness of reverent worship. I love the substitution of ‘tender sweetgrass” for “green pastures” in Psalm 23.
Then turning to Proverbs, I noted that Lady Wisdom is “Grandmother Wisdom..” She also has a sister, Understanding, and nieces Good Sense and Clear Thinking. This also resonates well with the matriarchal cultures of First Nations peoples.
Proverbs 3:5-6 is perhaps among the most familiar. Here is the FNV rendering:
From the strength of your heart, put all your trust in Grandfather, and do not hold yourself up with weak human thinking. As you walk the road of life, make every step a prayer. Grandfather will then make your eyes straight and your paths safe.
In conclusion, the fresh rendering of individual Proverbs made me linger over them, listening to their wisdom afresh. While Euro-Americans will gain fresh insights into Psalms and Proverbs, the “sacred songs” and “wise sayings” will hopefully deeply nourish the hearts of indigenous people as they seek to walk the harmony way
Scripture quotations are taken from First Nations Version, copyright ©2021 by Rain Ministries Inc. Used by permission of InterVarsity Press, Downers Grove, IL. All rights reserved.
_______________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for review.
The year 2021 marked the release of a different kind of Bible translation of the New Testament. In English, the translators used the idioms of First Nations Peoples of North America to offer a meaningful translation for these indigenous people. Now, those who translated the First Nations Version of the New Testament, have published a translation of the Psalms and Proverbs. They use many of the conventions introduced in the New Testament translation, including rendering the meaning of biblical names followed by the original name in parentheses. And cultural idioms significant to indigenous peoples of North America, are used in place of more familiar references. This rendering of Psalm 1:1-2 will give you a sense of this as well as introduce the FNV rendering of YHWH, usually translated in English translations as LORD.
Harmony and well-being rest on those who do not walk the path of the bad-hearted, the ones who do notstand with those who stir up disharmony, those who will not sit in a circle where others are spoken of with scorn and disrespect.
Instead, they take joy in Grandfather’s clear instructions. As the sun and the moon circle the sky, they think deeply about his ways.
The translators chose Grandfather to translate YHWH. This is the First Nations term for the Great Spirit used by many tribal nations. In the glossary, they offer an extended explanation of this choice, noting the unsuitability of LORD in the cultural experience of Native Americans for whom no cultural analogue for “Lord” exists. Also, they note the place of honor grandfathers enjoy in indigenous cultures.
Nevertheless, I have to admit I struggled with the term, while realizing that I am a cultural outsider. I do miss the assertion of God’s self-existence in YHWH, that all else derives its existence from YHWH. But I don’t have a better translation suggestion.
That aside, just as I found the New Testament rendering both fresh and accurate, so it was here. And for the Psalms, this is a freshness of reverent worship. I love the substitution of ‘tender sweetgrass” for “green pastures” in Psalm 23.
Then turning to Proverbs, I noted that Lady Wisdom is “Grandmother Wisdom..” She also has a sister, Understanding, and nieces Good Sense and Clear Thinking. This also resonates well with the matriarchal cultures of First Nations peoples.
Proverbs 3:5-6 is perhaps among the most familiar. Here is the FNV rendering:
From the strength of your heart, put all your trust in Grandfather, and do not hold yourself up with weak human thinking. As you walk the road of life, make every step a prayer. Grandfather will then make your eyes straight and your paths safe.
In conclusion, the fresh rendering of individual Proverbs made me linger over them, listening to their wisdom afresh. While Euro-Americans will gain fresh insights into Psalms and Proverbs, the “sacred songs” and “wise sayings” will hopefully deeply nourish the hearts of indigenous people as they seek to walk the harmony way
Scripture quotations are taken from First Nations Version, copyright ©2021 by Rain Ministries Inc. Used by permission of InterVarsity Press, Downers Grove, IL. All rights reserved.
_______________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for review.
September 13, 2025
This translation needs to be a staple in every Christian’s collection of Bibles, or at least in our rotations of various translations. A decade ago, I would only read NIV; I didn’t understand that different translations are attempting to do different things with the text. Some translations aim to be as faithful to the original text as possible and will sacrifice grammar and/or readability to do so, while others will translate to make the text as accessible as possible. Another of my held beliefs is that different cultures and ethnicities highlight different parts of God’s character. With that said, here are just a few of the reasons I love this translation:
1. The First Nations Version highlights the creation part of the Creator and of Scripture. The language is rich and unique. Many of the words we take for granted while reading the Bible get prescribed deeper meaning. For example, what is typically translated “wicked,” is translated to “bad-hearted.” Or, the Tribe or Israel being named, “the tribes of Wrestles with Creator.”
2. Reading Scripture is always a cross-cultural experience and this translation brings this to the surface. Each word is a reminder that we are reading an ancient text, but this translation does so in a way that is still easy to engage with. Every word is chosen thoughtfully and intentionally to honor the original authors, Indigenous people, and readers everywhere.
3. This translation is fresh! It takes familiar Scriptures and helps them to feel new. I’ll admit, on occasion, I zone out while reading my Bible because my brain goes, “oh, we know this one.” Reading the First Nations Version allows me to engage with renewed energy and perspectives.
I hope that this translation makes it onto as many shelves as possible so that more people can be blessed.
Thank you NetGalley, author Terry M. Wildman, and the First Nations Version Translation Council for the opportunity to read this ARC.
1. The First Nations Version highlights the creation part of the Creator and of Scripture. The language is rich and unique. Many of the words we take for granted while reading the Bible get prescribed deeper meaning. For example, what is typically translated “wicked,” is translated to “bad-hearted.” Or, the Tribe or Israel being named, “the tribes of Wrestles with Creator.”
2. Reading Scripture is always a cross-cultural experience and this translation brings this to the surface. Each word is a reminder that we are reading an ancient text, but this translation does so in a way that is still easy to engage with. Every word is chosen thoughtfully and intentionally to honor the original authors, Indigenous people, and readers everywhere.
3. This translation is fresh! It takes familiar Scriptures and helps them to feel new. I’ll admit, on occasion, I zone out while reading my Bible because my brain goes, “oh, we know this one.” Reading the First Nations Version allows me to engage with renewed energy and perspectives.
I hope that this translation makes it onto as many shelves as possible so that more people can be blessed.
Thank you NetGalley, author Terry M. Wildman, and the First Nations Version Translation Council for the opportunity to read this ARC.
July 8, 2025
i absolutely love this translation. reading it side by side my usual one gives me a deeper understanding of the verses, and a greater mental picture. it feels so simple and straightforward, yet deep and heartfelt. i’d definitely recommend!
May 26, 2026
I already loved this First Nations version of the New Testament. Now the Psalms, my favorite book of the Bible! Love reading these words afresh. I particularly love that YWYH has been translated as Grandfather. This is utmost respect and yet gives a tenderness to God.
March 21, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I appreciated this approach to Psalms and Proverbs. The focus on maintaining original meaning while using language and cultural iconography of First Nations peoples was very interesting and refreshing. I particularly appreciated the focus on harmony and love for the natural world instead of a more subjugation-oriented reading.
One thing that I wished for was the use of more feminine language for the creator. The notes explained that masculine language was used to adhere more to the original meaning, however they also acknowledge that this creates tension for First Nations tribes with matriarchal societies who use feminine language for the creator. I feel like a mixture of feminine and masculine language would have balanced the desire to adhere to original meaning while also honoring the language that matriarchal tribes would have used. On a personal note, I feel that using both types of language honors the idea that the creator is genderless and that all humans are crafted in their image, regardless of gender.
I appreciated this approach to Psalms and Proverbs. The focus on maintaining original meaning while using language and cultural iconography of First Nations peoples was very interesting and refreshing. I particularly appreciated the focus on harmony and love for the natural world instead of a more subjugation-oriented reading.
One thing that I wished for was the use of more feminine language for the creator. The notes explained that masculine language was used to adhere more to the original meaning, however they also acknowledge that this creates tension for First Nations tribes with matriarchal societies who use feminine language for the creator. I feel like a mixture of feminine and masculine language would have balanced the desire to adhere to original meaning while also honoring the language that matriarchal tribes would have used. On a personal note, I feel that using both types of language honors the idea that the creator is genderless and that all humans are crafted in their image, regardless of gender.
August 31, 2025
Unique and Enjoyable Perspective
It is always a great idea to find new facets of our Creator. Terry Wildman (in collaboration with others) helps the reader find a different yet valid and beautiful viewpoint.
It is always a great idea to find new facets of our Creator. Terry Wildman (in collaboration with others) helps the reader find a different yet valid and beautiful viewpoint.
July 28, 2025
This is such a beautiful translation!
November 12, 2025
Grateful to have been a part of this project. It was a joy to work with Terry and the Translation Council.
January 21, 2026
It's like reading the scripture for the first time. An even more compelling and vibrant translation of Psalms and Proverbs than the FNV New Testament!
February 11, 2026
I love love this version!!!
November 12, 2026
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Writing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Clarity of Messages: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Favorite Passage: Honestly all the Psalms, this translation really made them resonate with me!!!!! 🥰💖
What I Liked: The writing, the messages, the way certain words were used to give specific meanings.
What I Disliked: Nothing tbh!!!!!
Thoughts: What a profound and beautiful translation!!!!! I'm honestly sad to finish it, though I know I can always go back and reread things whenever I need to!!!!! Will definitely be reading The New Testament translation from this group soon!!!!!
Writing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Clarity of Messages: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Favorite Passage: Honestly all the Psalms, this translation really made them resonate with me!!!!! 🥰💖
What I Liked: The writing, the messages, the way certain words were used to give specific meanings.
What I Disliked: Nothing tbh!!!!!
Thoughts: What a profound and beautiful translation!!!!! I'm honestly sad to finish it, though I know I can always go back and reread things whenever I need to!!!!! Will definitely be reading The New Testament translation from this group soon!!!!!
July 22, 2026
This translation is so beautiful, especially with the context they give about why they chose the specific words they decided to use. I love it!
August 28, 2025
I am not indigenous. I grew up in a mainline Protestant denomination as a Pastor's Kid with little exposure to different religious traditions. While I lived near an indigenous community for a few years as a child, I did not know it well or have an understanding of the values and faith of the indigenous. The First Nations Version has been helpful in enabling me to hear Scripture in a new way and providing a more in depth picture of how we relate to God through creation and tradition.
In the past twenty years, many Bible translations have been developed. Most translations might change a word or phrase, but still sound similar. The First Nations Version is similar to the Message translation in that it describes Scripture in a more modern way that is closer to how we would converse and pass down stories. However, it's important to note that the First Nations Version is still verse by verse, as opposed to a paraphrase. I find that to be more helpful for referencing and comparing with other translations.
I hope that as more and more parts of the First Nations Version become available, it will become even more widely read, referenced, and utilized in devotional time and worship. I believe that it is beneficial for all people to be illumined by the wisdom of indigenous traditions. This translation remains faithful to the original meaning and intent of Scripture while also bringing a new perspective that has been missing within English translations.
Thank you InterVarsity Press and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
In the past twenty years, many Bible translations have been developed. Most translations might change a word or phrase, but still sound similar. The First Nations Version is similar to the Message translation in that it describes Scripture in a more modern way that is closer to how we would converse and pass down stories. However, it's important to note that the First Nations Version is still verse by verse, as opposed to a paraphrase. I find that to be more helpful for referencing and comparing with other translations.
I hope that as more and more parts of the First Nations Version become available, it will become even more widely read, referenced, and utilized in devotional time and worship. I believe that it is beneficial for all people to be illumined by the wisdom of indigenous traditions. This translation remains faithful to the original meaning and intent of Scripture while also bringing a new perspective that has been missing within English translations.
Thank you InterVarsity Press and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 25, 2025
I was thrilled to see that there was a FNV of Psalms and Proverbs! I’ve really enjoyed the NT that I have, though I haven’t fully read the NT yet.
The Introduction give useful explanations for reasoning of terms used, why the names are the way they are, and then the back holds a glossary that explains the words used and why. For example, “bad hearts and wicked ways” replaces “sin”; “harmony” replaces “peace”; “sacred treaty” replaces “covenant.”
There’s so much to love about this translation but my top two reasons are:
1. How it brings a new perspective to Scripture by bringing it closer to “home” in North America. I still have so much to learn about various indigenous cultures in Canada and the US, but there are shared experiences by being on the same land that are pointed out in this translation. Metaphors like “their coyote ways” connect with me immediately, or “cleanse me with sage” is easier for me to understand than “hyssop.” There are metaphors used that connect more quickly to my life experience like “be my lodge pole, one I can always depend to hold me up” vs “be my rock and refuge” (Ps 71:3).
2. How it brings me closer in understanding to a First Nations worldview and culture, and giving me some common language that could be shared with my indigenous brothers and sisters in Christ.
Thank you so much to the translators and everyone who has worked on this for giving us this treasure.
The Introduction give useful explanations for reasoning of terms used, why the names are the way they are, and then the back holds a glossary that explains the words used and why. For example, “bad hearts and wicked ways” replaces “sin”; “harmony” replaces “peace”; “sacred treaty” replaces “covenant.”
There’s so much to love about this translation but my top two reasons are:
1. How it brings a new perspective to Scripture by bringing it closer to “home” in North America. I still have so much to learn about various indigenous cultures in Canada and the US, but there are shared experiences by being on the same land that are pointed out in this translation. Metaphors like “their coyote ways” connect with me immediately, or “cleanse me with sage” is easier for me to understand than “hyssop.” There are metaphors used that connect more quickly to my life experience like “be my lodge pole, one I can always depend to hold me up” vs “be my rock and refuge” (Ps 71:3).
2. How it brings me closer in understanding to a First Nations worldview and culture, and giving me some common language that could be shared with my indigenous brothers and sisters in Christ.
Thank you so much to the translators and everyone who has worked on this for giving us this treasure.
August 12, 2025
Reading the Bible is a cross-cultural exercise, but this fact is easily forgotten when I read translations done by committees of people who predominately look and think like me. The First Nations Version of the Psalms and Proverbs (like the New Testament before it) is a beautiful reminder of the distance between the reader and the text, since it translates Scripture in a way that has a unique perspective. Since ancient Israel was a tribal culture, this translation seems to bring a closer connection to the world of the text. I am not an indigenous person so I am not the best to speak to its value. But I have already used this translation in worship and it has been deeply appreciated by our First Nations members.
A couple small translation elements to highlight: I loved the translation of the obscure term 'selah' with 'honor beat the drum.' This interpretation gave new weight and meaning to a term I've often just ignored. On the other hand, I didn't love the use of 'Grandfather' for the name of God (YHWH). The divine name is notoriously difficult to translate, and while they make a good case for the value of the term in many indigenous cultures, I would have preferred a term that was non-gendered and was a name rather than a title.
I highly recommend this translation for anyone who loves the Psalms and would appreciate the fresh perspective this provides.
A couple small translation elements to highlight: I loved the translation of the obscure term 'selah' with 'honor beat the drum.' This interpretation gave new weight and meaning to a term I've often just ignored. On the other hand, I didn't love the use of 'Grandfather' for the name of God (YHWH). The divine name is notoriously difficult to translate, and while they make a good case for the value of the term in many indigenous cultures, I would have preferred a term that was non-gendered and was a name rather than a title.
I highly recommend this translation for anyone who loves the Psalms and would appreciate the fresh perspective this provides.
November 11, 2025
Interesting take
November 28, 2025
fresh and lovely to read.
May 13, 2025
Terry Wildman is the Chief of Rain Ministries as well as a musical artist who has been nominated for several Grammy Awards. As the project manager of the First Nations Version Translation Council, he (and his team) have brought the Native American's love of storytelling to the Scriptures. This particular portion of Scripture, "First Nations Version Psalms and Proverbs: An Indigenous Bible Translation", brings to life some of the most well-known Bible passages. Take Proverbs 3:5-6 for example: "From the strength of your heart, put all your trust in Grandfather, and do not hold yourself up with weak human thinking. As you walk the road of life, make every step a prayer. Grandfather will then make your eyes straight and your paths safe."
I found it very interesting to read another translation of some of my favorite Bible verses, and think it's wonderful that there is now a Native American version of Scripture! Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I found it very interesting to read another translation of some of my favorite Bible verses, and think it's wonderful that there is now a Native American version of Scripture! Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
November 4, 2025
I loved the FNV New Testament. The Psalms and Proverbs are an excellent choice for their next translation project. Both of these, in their original language, are deeply rooted in a particular place and time, which I can forget because they are so familiar to me. Reading this translation rooted in the culture of First Nations often had me stopping, comparing with the version I'm most familiar with, and noticing new facets to God's truth. Highly recommended.
October 23, 2026
I knew this was going to be an interesting read, but I actually loved this translation. The details about how certain names or phrases were chosen helped me bridge the gap between the ancient Hebrew and the English translations I was raised on. I also think the naming conventions used for biblical characters was so much more powerful than the names I’m used to. I will definitely continue to tune in as (hopefully) more books are translated!
November 3, 2026
love this project. helped me to see the psalms and proverbs afresh. translated with a lyrical voice, and an integrative ethic re the translation. the result was that they (the psalms) felt more like songs.
August 5, 2026
Such an important way to read Scripture
Did Not Finish
November 7, 2026DNF at 17%. I went into this thinking it was more land & spirit and not a Native Christian retelling.
Did Not Finish
June 25, 2026I liked the idea, but it wasn't quite what I was hoping for. There was so much talk about "enemies" that it kind of turned me off. I mean, I get it, the colonizers were and are total assholes, but half- way through I'd had enough of psalms about oppressors and evildoers.
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