Bible Versions: Everything You Need to Know

The Bible is the most widely read book in human history. It has been translated into over 500 languages and dialects. However, with so many different versions and translations available, it can be confusing to know which one to choose. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the different Bible versions and translations.

What is a Bible Version?

A Bible version refers to a specific translation of the scriptures into another language. For example, the New International Version (NIV) and the King James Version (KJV) are two popular English Bible versions. The goal of Bible translation is to accurately convey the meaning of the original Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek texts into the receptor language.

Types of Bible Versions

There are four main translation philosophies used to produce Bible versions:

• Word-for-word: These translations stick very closely to the original wording and sentence structure. Examples include the KJV and the New American Standard Bible (NASB).
• Thought-for-thought: These translations focus on accurately conveying the meaning of phrases and passages. Examples include the NIV and the New Living Translation (NLT).
• Paraphrase: These translations restate passages using many words to convey the ideas. Examples include The Message and the Amplified Bible.
• Hybrid: These translations use a combination of word-for-word and thought-for-thought approaches. Examples include the English Standard Version (ESV) and the Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB).

Most Popular English Bible Versions

Here are some of the most widely used and influential English Bible versions:

King James Version (KJV)

• Translated between 1604-1611 by 54 scholars commissioned by King James I of England.
• Strict word-for-word translation principles used.
• Written in Old English using archaic words like “thee” and “thou.”
• Remains very influential and widely used today.

New International Version (NIV)

• First published in 1978 and revised in 1984 and 2011.
• Very readable modern English translation.
• Balances word-for-word and thought-for-thought translation philosophies.
• One of the most popular versions over the last 50 years.

English Standard Version (ESV)

• Published in 2001 by Crossway Bibles.
• Word-for-word translation from original languages.
• Goal to be readable and accurate.
• Growing popularity in churches and academia.

New Living Translation (NLT)

• First published in 1996 by Tyndale House Publishers.
• Thought-for-thought dynamic equivalence translation.
• Goal is to make the meaning of the Bible clear and accessible.
• Increasing use in personal Bible study.

New King James Version (NKJV)

• Published in 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
• Modern English update of the original KJV.
• Strict word-for-word translation from original language texts.
• Very similar accuracy to the KJV but easier readability.

Choosing a Bible Version

With so many options available, how do you choose a Bible version that’s right for you? Here are some things to consider:

• Purpose: Will you use it for in-depth study, daily reading, or public worship? Different translations serve different purposes better.
• Readability: Do you prefer contemporary, easy-to-read language or traditional, literal text?
• Accuracy: Is a word-for-word translation or thought-for-thought version more important to you?
• Format: Do you want a physical book, digital version, audio Bible, or mobile app?

When selecting a Bible version, it’s often helpful to get recommendations from mature Christian friends, pastors, or biblical scholars. Examining and comparing scripture passages in different translations can also help you decide which one you connect with best.

Word-for-Word Bible Versions

Word-for-word Bibles aim to preserve the precise original wording and sentence structure in translation. They adhere closely to formal equivalence. Here are some popular examples of word-for-word translations:

King James Version (KJV)

Completed in 1611 by 54 independent scholars, the KJV used the available Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic manuscripts of its day as source texts. It has remained the most influential English Bible version for over 400 years and is still beloved by many for its majestic language and poetic cadence.

New King James Version (NKJV)

Published in 1982, the NKJV is an update of the KJV in contemporary English yet preserving the literal accuracy of the KJV. It also uses the Textus Receptus manuscripts as its basis like the KJV.

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

The NASB, completed in 1971 and updated in 1995, is widely considered the most literal word-for-word English Bible translation. It is based on the original Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic manuscripts.

English Standard Version (ESV)

First released in 2001, the ESV seeks to be an “essentially literal” translation in updated English. It was translated by over 100 evangelical scholars and uses a word-for-word approach. The ESV is growing in popularity.

Amplified Bible (AMP)

The Amplified Bible, published in 1965, expands on the meaning of key words and phrases in the text by adding amplifications and alternative renderings inside parentheses and brackets. It aims for an ultra literal translation method.

Thought-for-Thought Bible Versions

Thought-for-thought translations place a higher priority on conveying the full meaning of phrases and passages over formal word-for-word accuracy. Here are some popular thought-for-thought versions:

New International Version (NIV)

The NIV, first published in 1978, is one of the most widely used contemporary English Bible translations in the world. It maintains the meaning of the original texts using modern, readable English suitable for public teaching, evangelism, and personal study.

New Living Translation (NLT)

Published in 1996 by Tyndale House Publishers, the NLT sought to communicate the meaning of the Bible in clear, natural English. It prioritizes readability and understanding and is increasingly used for personal devotions and reading.

Contemporary English Version (CEV)

Released in 1995 by the American Bible Society, the CEV uses contemporary, everyday American English vocabulary and grammar to convey the meanings of the original text. It aims to make the message of the Bible accessible.

The Message

Published in 2002, The Message was translated by Eugene Peterson over 10 years. It presents the Bible in the language of informal spoken English. The Message often uses paraphrases quite freely to get ideas across in very idiomatic language.

New Century Version (NCV)

The New Century Version was first published in 1987. It aims to use clear, natural English at an easy-to-understand reading level to accurately communicate the meaning of the original biblical texts. The NCV targets readers at a third grade reading level.

Paraphrase Bible Versions

Paraphrase translations convey the general thoughts and ideas of scripture passages using many words and phrases rather than formal equivalence to the original texts. Here are some examples:

The Living Bible (TLB)

Completed in 1971 by Kenneth N. Taylor, The Living Bible is an idiomatic paraphrase of the Bible in English. It conveys ideas thought-for-thought using informal language and creative paraphrasing for readability.

The Cotton Patch Version

This translation by Clarence Jordan was published between 1968-1976. It paraphrases much of the New Testament scriptures by translating them into the vernacular of the mid-20th century Southern United States.

The Voice

Published fully in 2014, The Voice translates the meaning of the biblical narratives into modern dramatizations of scripture passages and uses screenplay format. It takes translational freedom to convey ideas.

Catholic Bible Versions

Catholic Bible versions include the books in the Catholic biblical canon known as the Deuterocanonicals or Apocrypha. Here are some notable Catholic translations:

Douay-Rheims Bible

Translated from the Latin Vulgate between 1582-1610, this is the traditional Catholic English Bible. It was revised by Bishop Challoner in 1749-1752. A very literal translation.

New American Bible Revised Edition (NABRE)

The NABRE, first published in 1970 and revised in 1986 and 2011, is the current official Catholic Bible translation in English approved for liturgical use. It uses modern scholarly linguistic methods.

Jerusalem Bible

Released in 1966, this Catholic translation was translated from Hebrew and Greek original texts primarily by Dominican Biblical scholar Reverend Alexander Jones.

Original Language Versions

Studying the Bible in its original languages can provide much deeper insight and meaning. Here are some original language Bible versions:

Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia

This is the definitive Hebrew text of the Hebrew Bible published in 1967-1977. It is based on the Ben Asher manuscripts of the Masoretic Text tradition.

Nestle-Aland Novum Testamentum Graece

The Nestle-Aland Greek New Testament is the standard scholarly edition of the Greek New Testament published by the Institute for New Testament Textual Research. It uses full textual critical apparatus.

Septuaginta

The Septuagint is the primary Greek translation of the Hebrew Old Testament scriptures. It was created between the 3rd to 1st centuries BC and was used heavily by the New Testament authors.

Biblia Sacra Vulgata

This is the authoritative Latin Vulgate version of the Bible. Originally translated from Hebrew and Greek by Jerome in 405 AD, it was declared the official Catholic Church Bible translation in 1546.

Study Bible Versions

Study Bibles contain extra supplementary materials like: theological commentary, maps, charts, timelines, introductions for each book, definitions, and more. Here are some popular study Bible versions:

ESV Study Bible

The English Standard Version Study Bible, published in 2008, contains over 20,000 study notes explaining passages, introductions, doctrines, illustrations, and scholarly articles. Very comprehensive.

NIV Study Bible

With over 21,000 study notes and hundreds of additional resources, the NIV Study Bible is a tremendously useful tool for digging deeper into God’s Word. First published in 1985.

Thompson Chain-Reference Bible

The Thompson Chain-Reference system contains over 4,000 thematic topical chains linking related biblical themes together as a unique study tool. Popular since 1908.

Scofield Reference Bible

First printed in 1909, the Scofield Reference Bible contains chronologies, thorough book introductions and divisions, and theologically conservative Cyrus Scofield study notes and commentaries interpreting passages.

Ryrie Study Bible

This dispensationalist study Bible includes detailed notes from Charles Ryrie emphasizing literal interpretation, dates of writing, historical and cultural context, and archaeological insights. First published in 1976.

Choosing the Best Bible Version

With all the Bible translations available today, how do you choose? Here are some tips for selecting the right Bible version for your needs:

• Get recommendations from mature Christians you respect.
• Consider your main purpose in using it – study, devotions, teaching, preaching.
• Compare multiple versions of key passages you’re familiar with.
• Read introductions explaining the translation philosophy.
• Try both word-for-word and thought-for-thought versions.
• Ask which Bibles your church and pastor regularly use.
• Look for readability, memorability, reliability, and reputation.
• Remember that no Bible version is perfect or inerrant, only the original manuscripts.
• Focus on developing your relationship with God through his Word, not just academic study.

Tips for Effective Bible Reading

In addition to choosing a good Bible version, here are some tips for getting the most out of your personal Bible reading time:

• Set aside quiet, regular time to read the Bible when you can focus.
• Pray before you read, asking God to speak to you.
• Read with a teachable heart and open mind.
• Pay attention to the historical, literary, and biblical context.
• Read larger passages and whole books for fuller understanding.
• Note repeated themes, important doctrines, and future prophecies.
• Apply what you learn to your daily thoughts, words, and actions.
• Discuss tricky passages with pastors and wise Christians.
• Meditate on verses throughout your day to go deeper.
• Let scripture transform you to be more like Christ.

The Bible in Multiple Translations

For deeper Bible study, it can be helpful to regularly compare scripture passages in 2 or 3 different Bible versions. This allows you to see key texts from multiple translation perspectives. Many print study Bibles and online Bible study tools make this type of Bible version comparison easy. Some examples include:

• ESV / NIV / NLT – very readable word-for-word and thought-for-thought modern versions
• KJV / ESV / NLT – pairing older and newer literal and dynamic translations
• NASB / ESV / NIV – rigorous word-for-word and optimal equivalence translations
• NKJV / NIV / The Message – read the passage in a range of translation styles

Seeing how different Bible versions translate the same passage can often provide additional insight and depth. It helps you discern where there is interpretive variety versus where most translations closely agree.

Bible Version Controversies

There are a few controversial areas regarding Bible versions that are debated among Christians. These include:

Textual Basis

Some Bible versions use the modern critical text as their basis, while others like the KJV rely on the Received Text or Textus Receptus. There are differences between these Greek and Hebrew manuscript sources.

Gender-Inclusive Language

Some modern translations like the ESV use gender-inclusive language related to humanity while staying faithful to masculine words referring to God. Others like the NASB do not use any gender-inclusive language.

Bible Translation Philosophy

There are disagreements among Christians regarding translation philosophy – either more word-for-word literal or idea-for-idea dynamic equivalence. Translations fall on a spectrum between these two approaches.

Missing Verses

Some modern Bible versions based on earlier manuscripts omit a few verses found in the KJV. Examples are the ending of Mark 16, John 7:53-8:11, and 1 John 5:7-8. There are explanations for why they were excluded.

Copyright and Licensing

Some churches and Christians prefer the open licensing of the KJV over the copyright restrictions of newer Bible versions which must be purchased.

Translation Authenticity

There are disagreements over which Bible versions most accurately reflect the meanings of the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts. Translators have bias, but work to minimize it.

The Benefits of Multiple Bible Versions

While debates over Bible versions will continue, most scholars agree that using multiple translations can be beneficial for Bible study. Some of the benefits of using 2 or more versions include:

• You get a more well-rounded perspective when studying passages.
• It exposes you to different linguistic styles and vocabulary for concepts.
• You can compare word-for-word and meaning-based translations for deeper study.
• It highlights where certain versions may have particular translation biases.
• Your understanding and application of Bible principles deepens.
• You appreciate the skill and difficulty required to translate the texts.

Just be careful not to become excessively critical of any particular Bible version. The best approach is to use a diverse range of solid, orthodox translations with wisdom and discernment from the Holy Spirit.

Translation Examples

To get a better feel for how Bible versions differ, here is a comparison of John 3:16 from a variety of translations ranging from word-for-word literal to paraphrased dynamic equivalence:

King James Version

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

English Standard Version

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

New International Version

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

New Living Translation

For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

The Message

This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.

You can see the passage communicates the essential meaning in each version. But there are differences in the vocabulary, sentence structure, and degree of interpretation.

Audio Bible Versions

In addition to print and digital Bibles, audio Bible versions have become very popular for listening on-the-go. Here are some of the top audio Bible translations:

• ESV Audio Bible: Available for free streaming online or as a nicely produced downloadable app with Max McLean as narrator.
• NKJV Audio Bible: Voiced by Stephen Johnston and available for purchase on CD or as MP3 downloads.
• NIV Audio Bible: Several free streaming audio options available. Also a very nicely recorded version by International Talking Bibles.
• The Word of Promise Audio Bible: Dramatic audio performance of NKJV with Hollywood actors voicing different roles.
• Bible Gateway Audio App: Provides the audio Bible in 18 different translation versions including KJV, ESV, NIV, NJKV, NLT, and more.

Listening to scripture being read out loud can help you take it in and memorize it. It’s a great option while traveling, exercising, or relaxing.

Bible Translation Methods

Bible translations are produced using rigorous linguistic translation methods. Here is an overview of the techniques translators use:

Interlinear Translation

Interlinear Bibles display a word for word translation in line with the original Hebrew or Greek text. It shows the exact original word order and key definitions.

Back Translation

Translated text is rendered back into the original language by an independent translator to check for accuracy in conveying the meaning.

Exegetical Fallacy Prevention

Review processes ensure translators properly understand the meaning of passages in context rather than injecting personal interpretations.

Peer Review and Testing

Draft translations go through multiple independent peer reviews by scholars. Focus groups also test readability and comprehension.

Lexical Analysis

Scholars analyze how original language words are used across manuscripts to understand all their senses and meanings in context.

Source Text Variants

Variations between source manuscripts are thoroughly examined by researchers. Important textual issues are documented in footnotes.

Bible Translation Software

Advanced Biblical language software tools aid translators in ensuring consistency and accuracy and speed up the translation process.