Stay in the Word

LOST IN TRANSLATION?

How do I know which Bible translation is best? There are many different translations available for Bible reading. A quick overview will help you decide which translation is right for you. The differences lie in how each has translated the Hebrew and the Greek languages into English.

FORMAL EQUIVALENCE OR WORD-FOR-WORD:

These are the translations that seek to stay as close to the “form” of the Hebrew and Greek, rendering a more literal translation. These include KJV, NKJV, NASB, RSV, NRSV, and ESV.

FUNCTIONAL EQUIVALENCE OR THOUGHT-FOR-THOUGHT:

This is the attempt to keep the meaning of the original languages yet say the same thing in English. These include NIV, TNIV, CSB, NAB, NJB, GNB, and the REB

FREE TRANSLATION:

These translations attempt to translate ideas from the original to English, not concentrating on using the exact words, and are considered free translations or paraphrases. These include NLT, NEB, LB, JB, and The Message.

Whether you are new to reading the Bible or a seasoned reader, it is good to compare several translations for your Bible study to gain a deeper understanding of a particular passage and the intent of the original Bible manuscripts. There is no “best translation,” as all serve a purpose and have a function in translating from Hebrew (some Aramaic) and Greek into English.