I just got in the mail my HCSB Ultra Thin Black Grey DuoTone simulated leather. There is some really good news about the printed edition that had been lacking. But before I share that let me point out a few things about the layout of the book itself. Pictures will be coming soon.
I did not buy the calf-skin, but went with the $17.99 as that was much more affordable. It is sewn bound, which is a big plus. If later on the Duotone takes a beating I can always pay and have it rebound in the leather of my choice. The edges have a sliver trim which looks very nice as well. The font size is not published but trust me it is very readable, the dimensions are: 8.2 x 5.5 x 0.8 inches which is the perfect size for me and makes it easy to carry around (i.e. church), and to preach from. It has one ribbon, which I always complain about this, but it should have two, every bible should have two ribbons. I’m not that impress with the DuoTune, it has a nice matte finish, but it doesn’t feel very well to the touch. It sort of feels like think paper, like a manila folder??? However, it does look very beautiful.
Now about the Good News. I own the digital copy on OliveTree, Kindle, and iBooks and none of them have any Bullet notes for the word “Brothers”. However the printed edition does. That is a big step for HCSB and a step in the right direction. Here is what the Bullet item says for Romans 1:13:
Brother(s): The Greek word adelphoi can be used as a reference to males only or to groups that include males and females. It is the context of each usage that determines the proper meaning.
Fair enough. Although I still like the ESV footnote better (brings more clarity):
Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to men or to both men and women who are siblings (brothers and sisters) in God’s family, the church
By why settle for a footnote? That is where I prefer the NIV 2011 where Romans 1:13 reads:
I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters…
With the footnote:
The Greek word for brothers and sisters (adelphoi) refers here to believers, both men and women, as part of God’s family
Kudos to HCSB for adding the Bullet note, not my preference but like I said a step in the right direction.
the archives near Emmaus 
I do appreciate the footnote. At least it leaves the door open to the reader being aware that this is not only applicable to males.
Brian, I totally agree. That was really lacking, but what I don’t understand is why it’s not in the digital editions? BTW: they also have added a Bullet Note for “Languages (i.e. tongues)” that was also a big plus, but that’s been in the digital editions for a while now and I had blogged about that before.
The HCSB tends to be putting up a scaled down version of the text for digital editions. Everywhere I find the text in (free) digital form it’s lacking many of these elements.
I’m loving the new NIV, by the way!
Will, I am also loving the new NIV. I’m reading through the book of Luke and the Psalms right now and so far have been very pleased. In certain places I stop to make comparisons and still like the NIV rendition over the others. I should track these so that I can post them at some point, darn. Well it’s part of my devotions and I’m trying not to get distracted and let God’s word just speak to me.
But I’m still a fan of the HCSB, just can’t shake it off. I’m not sure how to put my finger on it as to why I like it as much as I do. Maybe it’s just its readability and maybe somehow it reminds of the NKJV??? I grew up reading that translation. I have said this before, if I was going to update the NKJV, it would read like the HCSB.
I’m making comparisons with the HCSB. I’ll try to post them periodically. The NIV still seems to retain some awkward syntax, such as “Cursed are you” instead of “You are cursed.” That bugs me, but it’s a petty issue.
Thanks for this, Robert. Definitely a step in the right direction.
TC, I was hoping you would catch this update, I was going to email you if you happen to miss it.
Robert, very thoughtful, my friend. I think I’m going to get one of those Duo Tones as well.
TC, you can’t go wrong. The cost is affordable, the binding and print is top notch the only real dislike I have is how the Duo Tone feels, but that could change over time with some use. But it looks really nice can’t wait to preach out of it. I am hoping that the updated NIV comes out with something very similar in size but in a calf-skin, that is the other reason why I didn’t buy this one in calf-skin, holding out for the NIV. If I have time tomorrow I’ll update this post with some photos.
Robert, yeah, I like the price. Just something handy. Well, it seems like everyone is holding out for the NIV. I think it will be good. But I think we’ll have to wait and wait through the year for the various editions. My take. 😉
The digital edition in WordSearch has these bullet comments. Not sure why some others don’t.