In a time when people are searching for deeper connection and understanding of Scripture, one new Bible translation is making waves for its unique approach to the text — and the man behind it is a familiar figure to many in Richmond, Indiana. Pastor Chris Monaghan, author and translator, has released The Name Translation Bible (TNT), a version of the Bible that re-introduces the meaning of every proper name directly into the text — illuminating Scripture in a way that resonates deeply with Jewish cultural understanding and biblical identity.
Why A “Name Translation” Matters
In ancient Hebrew and biblical culture, a name wasn’t just a label — it held meaning, identity, and destiny. Unlike many modern translations that simply transliterate names (e.g., Jacob, Sarah, David), The Name Translation inserts the meaning of each name alongside it, giving readers insight into the story, personality, and spiritual significance behind the words.
For example, names like Jacob and Israel carry powerful narrative meanings influencing how we interpret their stories. The TNT translation makes these meanings visible to readers without requiring scholarly study of Hebrew, Greek, or Aramaic.
About The Name Translation (TNT)
According to the official site, The Name Translation (TNT) is based on the World English Bible (WEB) — a modern revision of the 1901 American Standard Version — but with intentional changes that reveal more about names and their meanings. This project reflects over a decade of research by Pastor Monaghan into ancient languages and cultural context, exploring nearly 3,300 names throughout Scripture.
Pastor Monaghan explains that names in the Bible were never accidental; they tell a story — a story that is often lost in translation when names are simply passed over without explanation. By placing the meaning right next to the name, readers can encounter Scripture as it may have been understood by its original audience.
A Tool for Deeper Engagement With Scripture
The significance of this translation isn’t just academic — it’s spiritual. In Jewish tradition, names reflect character and destiny, and understanding these meanings can deepen personal faith and biblical engagement. The TNT serves as a bridge for readers of all backgrounds to appreciate the cultural and linguistic richness of Scripture.
Endorsements from scholars and translation experts highlight that this project helps readers unlock fresh wisdom for personal study, teaching, and spiritual growth.
Meet the Man Behind the Translation
Chris Monaghan isn’t only an author and biblical scholar — he’s also a pastor at Gateway Church and a community leader here in Richmond, Indiana. Beyond his work on The Name Translation, Chris serves his community through ministry at Gateway Church and as a driving force behind the Gateway Hunger Relief Center, a local effort providing support and nourishment to those in need. His work reflects a heart for both spiritual and physical care.
- Gateway Church: https://igateway.org
- Gateway Hunger Relief: https://gatewayhungerrelief.org/
A Translation With Cultural Power and Spiritual Depth
For many readers, especially those interested in ancient Jewish thought and biblical identity, The Name Translation offers a fresh way to encounter Scripture — one where names are not just words on a page but keys to understanding history, destiny, and God’s unfolding narrative. This version invites readers to ponder Scripture with fresh eyes and renewed reverence for the names and meanings that shape the biblical story.
Whether you’re a longtime Bible reader or exploring faith for the first time, the TNT represents an innovative tool to engage with God’s Word on a deeper level — honoring the cultural importance of names and revealing divine storytelling in every chapter of Scripture.
