For English-speaking Christians or people who need to explore the Bible, a common concern is ‘what Bible should I read’. The answer to this depends on one’s knowledge.
With ample online resources at one’s fingertips, there are many versions to access. But, this does bring more confusion about which Bible version to choose. There is no perfect answer. The reason is that each Bible translation has a unique level of how easy it is to read. Also, each version changes in likeness to the original language of the Scripture. In this guide, we’ll discuss various versions for a deeper know-how of what to expect.
The History of Translating the Bible:
Translating the Bible is crucial because it was originally in Hebrew, with some sections in Aramaic (for the Old Testament) and Greek (for the New Testament). The languages are no longer common—in fact rarely known and spoken.
The oldest (in expert knowledge) versions of the Old Testament up until the mid 20th century were the Masoretic text. In 1947, 900 ancient scrolls known as the Dead Sea Scrolls were found in caves. According to experts, these date back to the 2nd century B.C.
These scrolls were pretty much the same as the Masoretic text, with changes in minor spelling aspects. Moreover, the variants did not impact the meaning. Since that time, transcripts of the New Testament have been found. These date as far back as the 2nd century A.D. And, the reliability of the ancient texts.
Simply put, the multiple languages of the original text can make ‘what Bible should I read’ a tad complex issue. As a matter of fact, all English versions you will come across today are translations. Thus, for English speakers who do not want to learn dead languages, there is the matter of undoing these!
The Bible Translation Spectrum: A Guide of Common Versions:
This guide can help simplify the matter of various Bible versions, from easy-to-read bible for beginners to more complex ones. The many versions can be placed on a ‘spectrum’. Bible experts focus on either a literal or easy to read translation. Moreover, each version falls on a unique level.
Here are the brief meanings of each:
1. Literal Translations: The translators try to retain the meaning of the Hebrew and Greek words, grammar, and form. Also, they do it closely to the original Bible.
2. Dynamic Translations: Also known as dynamic versions. In these, the intent is to balance the literal (word-for-word) version and easy to read (thought-for-thought) version.
3. Readable Translations: The translators try and convey the original meaning. Yet, they make it as simple as possible, using words that are easy for modern readers to read.
In a nutshell, some versions of the Bible adopt a more formal style. These try to remain true to the original Hebrew or Greek texts. The experts focus on a version of the Bible that is nearly literal.
On the other hand, the versions which are easy to read will carry on the original meaning. They make the Bible relatable for today’s readers. For people with the concern of ‘what Bible should I start with’, a less formal version may be the answer.
1. English Standard Version (ESV) Bible
We first focus on answering the query of what Bible should I read with a version that flows naturally. That, but not straying too far from the original. The English Standard Version stands out as one of the first vital versions with respect to ease of reading.
It is vital to mention that the ESV often chooses male pronouns over neutral ones. This is a crucial aspect to note, as neutral pronouns may align more closely with the original Bible text. Other versions such as KJV (we’ll explore this further) have the same take on pronouns. ESV was a version during a period when the use of male pronouns was a standard in English. It is not the case today, so it is smart to be aware of this fact if you choose ESV.
If you are looking for a balance between clearness and precision with more focus on the former aspect, the ESV is easy. It may be a tad tricky for beginners to Bible reading, but ESV is quite useful for comparing texts. In conclusion, ESV is for readers who want a more direct version of the Bible.
2. New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible
For those who what to know what Bible should I read’ and need a version to cover their need for easy to read text, this is the one to consider. The New Revised Standard Version is a popular Bible today. And, the liking for NRSV by new Christians can be easy to assess—due to these reasons:
- NRSV lies right almost in the middle of the Bible version spectrum.
2. It offers a great balance between clarity and accuracy.
3. The English used in this translation avoids old terms.
4. NRSV is more accessible for readers than older Bible translations.
5. The middle ground helps convey the intended meaning well.
The NRSV may not be as precise (with respect to text) as some other versions on the more literal side. At the same time, it is not as easy to read as those that focus on clarity. That said, it is worthy for even new readers, and ideal for those moving up from an easier version.
Both the New Revised Standard Version (NRS) and its predecessor, the Revised Standard Version (RSV), offer more benefits than other versions.
3. King James Version (KJV) Bible
The King James Version is one of the most formal versions and was translated in 1911. You will also find the New King James Version (NKJV)—a modern edition of KJV released in 1982.
The KJV served as the primary Bible for English-speaking Protestant churches for nearly four centuries. What this means for modern readers is that you will find many famous passages in this version. It is important to know that the wealth of ‘thees and ‘thous’ in KJV is a tricky aspect. The age-old language makes this version often seem hard to read. At the same time, this quality makes KJV are worthy version, as you are close to the original.
Also, the KJV is one of the most widely used English translations of the Bible today. In terms of its place on the translation spectrum, the KJV is near the middle. But, it is still on the literal side, as there is a focus on textual accuracy over ease of meaning.
For those who are looking for a less formal version of KJV, the New King James Version may be ideal. It updates certain words that are no longer common in English today. The KJV is one of the most precise translations of its time, but it does stress formal language. If you do prefer a literal approach to Bible versions, this may be the best Bible to read.
4. New Living Translation (NLT) Bible
If you are looking for a versatile version as a solution for what Bible should I read, this translation stands out. The New Living Translation is the version of the Bible that is also one of the more recent and popular ones. The main reasons for this are:
- The translators of NLT made meaning vital rather than abiding closely to the original text.
2. This is a translation that reads smoothly, similar to a book.
3. NLT is also backed by deep research and translation methods.
Additionally, are you considering a Bible for a new Christian who has not spent years studying the scriptures? Then the New Living Translation is likely your best choice. The version is not only excellent for easy reading but also for in-depth study.
When you explore the messages of the Bible with the NLT, you can trust that this preserves the original meaning. However, know that experts also emphasize having additional Bible study resources to gain a deeper insight into Scripture. Simply put, NLT is a translation of the Bible that is among the simplest to read. It focuses on meaning for new readers.
5. New American Standard Bible (NASB)
The New American Standard Bible has many versions, the translation being done in 2020. This new version is translated with a focus on the 1995 NASB, which is probably the most loved version. In simple terms, the 2020 version of NASB enhances the strengths of its ancestor.
For someone who is confused by ‘what Bible should I read’, know that the New American Standard Bible is exact. Yet it also has modern language and boosts ease of reading. In other words, the NASB 2020 can be a good update. It reflects growth in biblical scholarship from the last 25 years. Moreover, it has needed changes to align with the constantly changing English language.
The updated text in the 2020 version of NASB aims to convey clearly and accurately to present and future audiences.
It sticks to the old translation style for the NASB. That is it focuses on precisely conveying messages of the Bible in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts into modern English. The language is easy to read and access for all, and respects the first message—resonating with new Christians.
6. New International Version (NIV) Bible
In many churches across North America with English as the main language, the New International Version Bible (NIV) is ideal. This Bible translation has become the go-to version today, which also makes it valuable to add to any collection.
Many people who are thinking over ‘what Bible should I read’ wonder what makes the NIV a worthy version. The answer is simple:
1. The widespread use of the NIV is due to its emphasis on high readability.
2. For readers with English as a non native language, this was a good change.
3. They previously relied on KJV—which as we have know contains ‘old English’.
4. For foreign readers, NIV of the Bible is easier, as it focuses on meaning.
5. This version is three-quarters of the way on the spectrum (on the readable side).
NIV is presently one of the leading English versions of the Bible in the world. For those who need more knowledge, NIV aims to strike a balance between literal translation and ease of reading. It does so by using clear and accessible English that resonates with a diverse audience. NIV may be the perfect version for preaching, and public reading, and ideal for Bible classes for kids and adults.
What Bible Should I Read: Assessing Different Translations:
Let us break down how to choose from the most common translations that fall on the spectrum of Bible translations. The ideal solution to the best study Bible for Christians comes to how literal you want the version to be. But, it is important to know that understanding is a vital factor. You may focus on accuracy (a version of the Bible that conveys the exact words and meaning in the original). Then, you should know that is an option. However, this style may result in a version that is hard for an English speaker. Plus, it may be hard, as you will need to read that version many times before you get the message. ABOUT WEBSITE
Additionally, certain idioms and figures of speech in a mostly literal Bible may not translate well using this method. The reason is not poor translation, but because the original Bible language does not have widely known phrases today. On the plus side, this method can highlight some word choices made by biblical writers. A more literal version does a better job of reflecting the meaning of the original Bible deeply.
Verdict: Which Bible Version Is Ideal?
You say that the question of ‘what Bible should I read’ has a long discussion. The versions of the Bible that are further on the readable side of the scale are easier for new readers. At the same time, if you are serious about the original message, you should not overlook more literal versions.
Consulting an expert can help. In the meantime, you can start with a version that keeps balance (middle of the spectrum)—and move to more literal versions with time.