Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to commonly asked questions about the Institute for Scripture Research.

Do you answer theological questions?

  • The ISR will not respond to doctrinal questions. For doctrinal questions, we suggest that you earnestly search the Scriptures, study them and pray. If you are in a scriptural congregation you should be able to discuss matters with the teacher(s) there.

Can you recommend synagogues, yeshivas, assemblies, churches, fellowships or other groups for help with doctrinal issues?

  • Regretfully, we cannot, since this would actually contradict our desire to be non-partisan in regard to doctrinal matters. We recommend that you earnestly pray for guidance on where to go, and follow that up with action, such as searching local newspapers, internet, etc.

Who translated "The Scriptures"?

  • "The Scriptures" were originally translated by Dr. CJ Koster, with the aid and support of other scholars and textual experts from both Jewish and non-Jewish backgrounds in different parts of the world. Dr. CJ Koster and other directors formed the Institute for Scripture Research as a Public Company under Section 21 of the South African companies act on 30 November 1993, with Dr. CJ Koster as the Chairman.
  • When Dr. Koster passed away on 4 May 1995, deeply missed by all who knew him and also by so many who “knew” him only through the work of the Institute for Scripture Research that he founded, the work continued, as he intended, with the board of directors now overseeing the on-going work of translation and revision.

Is the work of translating “The Scriptures” now complete?

  • We believe that, by its very nature, the work of translating and improving the translation can never truly be said to be complete. Though we strive for perfection we do not claim that the translation is perfect. Far from it. This is why we have adopted the unique approach of asking public participation in its improvement. (See How can I help?).