Hello, Bible Nerds! There is much to consider when choosing which Bible translation is best for you in 2024. There are over 800 different versions and translations available to believers. With a list that long it would take forever to sort through them all! Luckily, you do not have to! Here are the top 9 Bible Translations For 2024.
Whether you’re a new believer looking for an easy-to-understand translation or a seasoned veteran seeking a solid study bible, one (or more!) of these will be exactly what you’re looking for!
Types of Translations
Before we get into the Top 9 Bible translations, it’s important to understand what the word ‘translation’ means. Unless you read ancient Hebrew or Greek, the scriptures were not written in your language. In order for us to read in English, scholars must first learn to read Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic, then translate the writings into our modern-day language.
That’s a difficult task to undertake!
When you consider how words have changed over the years, the use of idioms, and local colloquialisms, it’s amazing that we are able to understand the intentions of the original inspired authors.
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When scholars undertake the daunting task of translating the original languages into modern languages, they generally fall into one of three different camps:
- Word-For-Word Translations
- Thought-For-Thought Translations
- Paraphrased Translations.
Word-For-Word Translations
A word-for-word translation seeks to do exactly that: translate each word into the most accurate modern equivalent. The advantage of this type of translation is that there is no opportunity for the personal thoughts and opinions of the translators to find their way into the text. Their only job is to find the most accurate word possible one at a time until the translation is completed.
The issue is that there is not always an exact equivalent, or that the most accurate translation no longer makes sense in the 21st century.
For example, if I were to say to you, “It’s raining cats and dogs,” you would immediately understand that phrase. You understand that cats and dogs are not literally falling from the sky.
However, 2,000 years from now, a person may have a difficult time translating and understanding that phrase. If, instead, the phrase was translated as, “It is raining really hard,” it would be much easier for everyone to understand.
It could be argued that this type of translation is much more useful because it’s a more accurate representation of the true meaning of the phrase. However, that translation would no longer be word for word. This leads us to our next type of translation…
Thought-For-Thought Translations
When an interpreter chooses to translate based on what they believe is the most accurate depiction of what the original author meant, they are translating thought for thought.
A strong advantage of this type of translation is that it’s generally easy to understand. While each individual word may not be the most literal option available, the overall thought is easier for the reader to follow. The text seems to flow more naturally and contains fewer idioms.
The negative side of a thought-for-thought translation is that there is room for the interpreter to insert their own bias. While not intentional, the translator could easily begin to tell the reader what they believe the text says instead of what it actually says.
Not every Bible scholar interprets texts the same way. That’s why there are so many different commentaries. It’s important that thought-for-thought translations be careful not to interject their personal beliefs into God’s inspired word.
Paraphrased Translations
Paraphrased translations do not replicate words or thoughts, and instead, opt to retell passages of scripture in their own words. This retelling often becomes quite dynamic and enjoyable to read.
The downside of a paraphrase is that it is not, and cannot be, the most accurate Bible translation. In fact, it’s technically incorrect to call it a translation, because it is the author’s attempt to reword the scriptures in their own way.
While these types of translations may not be the most literally accurate, it does not immediately count them out.
Many Bible Nerds choose these variations as excellent commentaries! Some even choose to read them all the way through like a novel.
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But, do be mindful, while a paraphrased translation is a wonderful addition to your library for study purposes, it should not be used as your primary Bible. A word-for-word or thought-for-thought translation will be much more accurate for in-depth reading and Bible study. And a paraphrased version would be handy to have opened nearby in case you come across a passage that requires additional insight.
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The following translations have emerged in the public eye as the most popular and widely accepted options available. They are grouped according to translation type.
1. King James Version (KJV)
The KJV is the OG Bible translation. While not the first, it’s definitely the most well known. The word-for-word translation was commissioned by King James of England in 1611 into the English language. It quickly became the most popular version available to the public and still stands as one of the best sellers to Christians around the world.
The KJV has become a familiar and trusted translation that many people refuse to stray from. While it may be unwise to ‘refuse’ any other version, the KJV is a solid choice that has been vetted for years.
You might think of the KJV like your grandpa. He has been around for a long time and is very knowledgeable. Unfortunately, he also talks like an old man, and that makes it difficult to understand some of what he says. It doesn’t make him any less reliable, but understanding is just as important as reliability. The good thing is that the more time you spend around him, the easier it gets to speak his language.
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.
John 3:16, KJV
2. New King James Version (NKJV)
A close cousin to the KJV, the NJKV has become a popular version for those who desire a little more readability without straying too far from tradition.
In a nutshell, the main difference between the two is that words like ‘ye’ and ‘thou’ have been replaced with ‘you’ and ‘your.’
If your church reads from a KJV, you may enjoy the NKJV. It’s a slightly more modern version that will not compromise your ability to follow along with everyone else.
If the KJV is the grandpa of Bibles, the NKJV may be the young grandpa. He is aware that he’s losing touch with the younger generation and attempts to use a language that’s easier for them to understand. It’s still obvious that he’s a grandpa, but you appreciate the effort he’s making.
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
John 3:16, NKJV
3. English Standard Bible (ESV)
In 2001, a team of over 100 evangelical scholars completed this word-for-word, “essentially literal,” translation. This word-for-word translation has been adopted by many mainstream churches around the world for its accuracy and readability.
The ESV would be a great addition to your library, and may even be your choice for a daily reader!
The English Standard Version is the nice guy at school. He is a friend to everyone and easy to relate with. He may be a little awkward sometimes, but you’re okay with that! It’s a breath of fresh air to find a friend who is up to date with the times but still holds to traditional values. This is the guy that you would choose to be friends with your kid.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16, ESV
4. New American Standard Version (NASB)
The NASB holds the award for the most accurate word-for-word translation available today. Why doesn’t its accuracy propel it to the top of the best seller’s list? Probably because it’s a little wordy.
Remember, when the text is translated word for word, you sometimes end up with sections that are awkward in English. That does not make it a poor choice, however! Just the opposite!
The wording of the NASB may not flow as freely as some of the other options, but it is still easy to read and comprehend. This literal translation may be the perfect option for deep study and applying the truths of God’s word to your life.
This version of the Bible is the nerd of the group. He is dedicated to being as accurate as possible in every area. Because of this dedication, he is sometimes awkward to follow along with. Don’t worry, though! He doesn’t talk over your head. In fact, it’s really easy to understand everything he says. It’s just that he sometimes takes the long way around when explaining the text.
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life.
John 3:16, NASB
5. The Amplified Bible (AMP)
The Amplified Bible sits on the fence between a word-for-word and a thought-for-thought translation. While it is technically considered to be translated word-for-word, it contains amplifications in line with the text in the form of brackets, parentheses, and italics that are intended to bring out the meaning of the original text more fully.
It could be described as a Bible with a built-in commentary. It may not be the easiest option to follow along while someone else is reading, but it stands out from the crowd as an excellent personal study option.
This translation can be compared to your cool college professor. He’s pretty smart, but he doesn’t hold that over your head. It’s his goal to impart as much knowledge to you as possible without leaving anyone behind. He makes sure to explain everything as he goes along and spends extra time to ensure everyone understands. The biggest downside is that he talks a lot. If you were hoping for a methodical explanation, you’re in the right class! But if you were hoping to get straight to the point you may want to find a different teacher.
For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life.
John 3:16, AMP
6. Christian Standard Bible (CSB)
The Christian Standard Bible attempts to bridge the gap between word-for-word and thought-for-thought translations. Its authors understand that both types of translations have their strengths and weaknesses, and have worked to present a translation that contains the best of both worlds.
There are groups who argue that the CSB is the most accurate translation, but the majority consensus still gives that title to the NASB. Some complain that it’s too literal while others feel it’s too interpretive. The fact that the CSB catches flack from both sides probably means that it’s found firm footing on solid, central ground.
The CSB is the teacher’s pet of Bible versions. He tries hard to impress and even lists footnotes about how different passages were translated. He wants to be friends with both the nerds and the popular kids, but unfortunately, he ends up occasionally upsetting both parties.
For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16, CSB
7. New International Version (NIV)
First published in 1978, the NIV skyrocketed to the top of the best seller’s list where it still rests comfortably. This thought-for-thought translation is written in a way that anyone can understand. The thoughts flow comfortably, it’s not too wordy, and it stays true to the original author’s intent.
The thought-for-thought style will read differently than a word-for-word translation, but that’s to be expected. It’s a crowd favorite for young adults and seasoned believers alike.
However, it has caught some negative attention from strict traditionalists. It has been known to lean more toward interpretation rather than strictly translating. The greatest downfall of the NIV is its 2011 revision where it attempts to be all-inclusive with the use of gender-neutral language in order to be more culturally sensitive.
If this Bible were a person, he would probably wear skinny jeans and tight-fitting shirts. The NIV is the hipster of the Bible community. He was cool before modern translations became cool. It’s important to him to include everyone, avoid confrontation, and remain as politically correct as possible.
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.
John 3:16, NIV
8. New Living Translation (NLT)
The NLT is a true thought-for-thought translation with high readability. It was translated phrase by phrase rather than word by word, which aids in modern comprehension.
As with all thought-for-thought translations, there are times when it may lean more toward interpretation rather than the literal translation. But, for the most part, it’s a solid and accurate translation that can be loved by those with low reading levels to college graduates.
The New Living Translation is the popular kid in class. He is up-to-date with modern culture and is easy to understand. He uses expressive language and talks with his hands when he gets excited. The NLT is fun and makes everyone feel welcome. Everyone may not like his style, but that’s okay. He’s comfortable with his personality and shares his beliefs passionately.
For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16, NLT
9. The Message (MSG)
The Message version has gained a large following over the last few years. It was written by pastor Eugene Peterson over the course of several years. Technically, the MSG is not a translation. It is not replicated word-for-word nor thought-for-thought.
Instead, it is rewritten in the author’s own words. In pastor Peterson’s own words, The Message was written to “bring the New Testament to life for two different types of people: those who hadn’t read the Bible because it seemed too distant and irrelevant and those who had read the Bible so much that it had become ‘old hat’.”
While it shouldn’t be chosen as a primary source of study, it’s a wonderful addition to your collection and worthy to be consulted regularly for additional insights.
This last version is comparable to the theater kid. Sometimes he can draw on deep emotion and play with your heartstrings. He also tends to over-exaggerate occasionally. Regardless, he is a joy to listen to because he is obviously passionate about his craft. He may be different from the ‘popular’ kids at school, but he will make a great friend if you give him a chance!
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.
John 3:16, MSG
Which Bible Translation Is Best?
There are many Bible translations available to believers of all stages. It is a nearly impossible task to mark one translation as the clear winner of them all. Each translation has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some are better suited for daily reading while others are better for in-depth study and learning.
Having said that, there is one Bible that is better for you than any other option available: The one you will read.
No Bible translation available in 2024 will make any difference in your relationship with God or enhance your level of spiritual growth if you do not read it.
If you prefer a word-for-word translation, that’s the one you should read! If you prefer a thought-for-thought translation, that’s great! Read it! You can argue that one translation is stronger or more accurate than another, but all the strengths in the world are worthless if they are not applied.
Which Bible Translation Should You Choose?
I suggest that you avoid limiting yourself to one translation. You will do yourself a great disservice by refusing to consult multiple versions on a regular basis. Your overall knowledge and understanding of God’s word will grow more quickly when you read and compare various translations.
Inevitably, you’ll find some you prefer more than others, and that is just fine!
The point is to find options that fall under every translation type and use them all in your journey toward deeper spiritual understanding.
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For your primary Bible, I strongly recommend that you choose a literal, word-for-word translation. This would be the one you bring to church, Bible studies, and read for accuracy during dedicated Bible study.
When you’re simply reading to absorb material or get the big picture of the text, a thought-for-thought translation would be an excellent choice. The words flow more naturally, and you’ll be able to follow the overall narrative of the scriptures with ease.
As you’re reading, you are sure to come across a passage that is difficult to understand. You may wonder exactly what the author is trying to say or desire to hear someone else’s opinion on what the verse in question is referring to. For those instances, consult a paraphrased version of the Bible. They make great commentaries and will help you understand more complex areas of scripture.
In an ideal world, you would have all 3 (or more!) available at the same time as you sit down for dedicated times of study. Websites such as the Blue Letter Bible, Bible Gateway, or Bible.com offer the ability to quickly switch between versions if you do not have access to physical books.
If you enjoy having access to multiple translations and would like to have the tactile experience of handling a physical book, a parallel Bible may be exactly what you’re looking for! They’re a bit bulky but are a wonderful option for those who prefer to consult multiple versions.
Regardless of which you choose, choose something!
Make Bible reading and study a part of your daily routine!
Which Bible translations do you prefer? Leave your comments below!
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