The Translation Spectrum - Bible Versions Explained

KJV, NKJV, NIV, ESC, ASB, CSB - There are hundreds of English Bible translations. This is a great blessing, because people from different background and with different levels of understanding will always have a version that resonates with them, that talks to them. But it also is a problem, in the sense that it poses the question "Which one is the best?".

Every translation is unique - be it the time it was written or the reason it was made. But all of them will generally lie in a spectrum. On one end of the spectrum we have the Word-for-word philosophy, where words or text are converted from one language to another. So it ends up being a literal equivalent of the original. On the other end is the Thought-for-thought philosophy, where the meaning of a text or passage is expressed using other words. Cultural references and idioms might be smoothed over, and it is worded such that a modern reader can easily understand. This side of the spectrum might be suitable for someone who is new to the Bible. This it ends up being dynamic equivalent of the original.

Some translations are from the original ancient texts, while some are translated from an existing English translation.

I was fortunate to grow up with various English version and one standard Tamil translation which is my mother tongue. Over time, I have revisited my choices, and my current personal choice is the NKJV, I feel it is quite balanced between readability and reliability. But I also like the HCSB for it's accuracy in some aspects. And I always recommend having access to several major Bible translations, for comparisons' sake.

See, it depends on your need. One translation might be better for you than another because of what you are looking for - whether it is for moral edification, or whether it is for a study where you may prefer if the text is closer to the original.

So even though there are so many translations, I believe that every Bible out there is God's word, and it is the Truth, and it is present for a purpose. With a little bit of research and a little bit of comparison, I think you can choose what translation is best for you!

2 Timothy 3:16-17: All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.