The Bible Was Not Written in English
One of the most important things to understand about Bible translations is this: the Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek—not English, Tagalog, or any modern language. So every version we read today is a translation, an attempt to convey God’s Word from the original languages into words we can understand.
But not all translations are created the same. The key differences lie in how they approach translation, and those differences affect readability, accuracy, and purpose.
Three Main Types of Bible Translations
1. Word-for-Word (Formal Equivalence)
This method aims to stick as closely as possible to the exact words and structure of the original text.
- Examples: King James Version (KJV), New King James Version (NKJV), English Standard Version (ESV), New American Standard Bible (NASB)
- Strength: High accuracy to original text
- Consideration: Can feel rigid or harder to read for modern readers
2. Thought-for-Thought (Dynamic Equivalence)
Rather than translating every word literally, these translations try to capture the meaning or intent of the original sentence or phrase.
- Examples: New International Version (NIV), New Living Translation (NLT), Christian Standard Bible (CSB)
- Strength: Easier to understand
- Consideration: Slightly less literal, but more natural reading flow
3. Paraphrase (Free Translation)
These are not direct translations but rewordings that aim to modernize and simplify the message.
- Examples: The Message (MSG), The Passion Translation (TPT), The Living Bible (TLB)
- Strength: Great for devotional reading or young believers
- Consideration: Not ideal for in-depth study, since some interpretive liberties are taken
Why So Many Translations?
God’s Word doesn’t change—but language does. The goal of multiple translations is not to confuse, but to communicate clearly to different generations, reading levels, and cultures. For example, the King James Version (1611) is powerful and poetic, but many of its words are now outdated. The NIV or NLT brings clarity where the original King James may leave modern readers puzzled.
Having different translations also helps us see Scripture from fresh angles. Studying from two or three translations side-by-side can greatly deepen understanding.
Which Translation Should You Use?
That depends on your purpose:
- For study: ESV, NASB, NKJV
- For devotion and reading: NLT, NIV, CSB
- For overview or storytelling: The Message, TLB
What matters most is reading the Word with a heart to know God. Choose a translation that helps you understand the Bible, love Jesus more, and walk in truth.
“The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” – Psalm 119:130