Finding the Best Bible Translation
- Krista Smith
- Sep 15, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 20
Selecting the best Bible translation for yourself can be a profound and meaningful journey. It can be an overwhelming task, especially if you're new to the Christian faith and still navigating its depths. The sheer number of available versions can leave you wondering where to begin. It's natural to seek clarity and guidance in this process, which is why I'm here to help provide you with some valuable insights. Below we will unravel the complexities surrounding Bible translations, enabling you to make an informed decision in selecting the perfect Bible translation for you.
Literal Bible Translations
Literal translations are often the closest English form of the Hebrew or Greek word. In this process, translators review every single word to ensure they are as accurate as possible, called formal equivalence. This form of translation is extremely helpful for academic study and works well with interlinear Bibles. However, the biggest drawback to word-for-word translations is that modern readers might misunderstand figures of speech, literacy devices, and cultural references.
Dynamic Bible Translations
Looking for an easier read? Dynamic translations place a higher emphasis on summing up the biblical authors' thoughts while still respecting the text. These thought-for-thought translations balance accuracy with approachability. The goal of most Bible translators is to be as faithful as possible to the original meaning of the text (if not the original words) while using language that is as clearly understood and natural sounding to the modern reader as the original text was to the original readers.
Paraphrased Bible Translations
Paraphrased Bibles focus on getting the general idea across with clear language, useful for those new to their faith or new to reading. Sometimes a paraphrase can be nice because it's interpretation; you can use it to gain a fresh perspective on a passage you're reading. While paraphrased translations may get a bad reputation; I would argue that there is a time and place for every type of Bible out there. Typically, Bible paraphrases aren't necessarily meant to stand alone, so keep that in mind.
Check out our printable Bible Translation Chart
Recommended Translations
Don't just take my recommendation and run with it, look at the different versions on the chart above to decide what is best for your own personal journey.
English Standard Version (Literal)
The ESV is a great formal equivalence translation. It's a great version to use when you want to study the Bible.
Christian Standard Bible (Dynamic)
The CSB is a middle approach. It can be found somewhere between a formal translation and a functional one. It's great for reading but it can also be pretty useful for studying. It's honestly the one I use daily.
New Living Translation (Paraphrased)
Finally, the NLT may be the easiest to read of the three. It takes the Biblical text and presents it in a way that modern English readers can easily understand. A great start, something that every new Christian should have!
I hope this was able to give you some insight into Bible translations so that you can make an informed decision that will suit you on your Journey 2 Jesus!
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