One of the most asked questions about the Bible is ‘what is the best translation?’
It all depends on who you are and what you will be using it for. It can help to know a few basic facts about translations...
Many people find that they need more than one Bible and use different ones for different occasions. Due to the large number of translations available online for free it is very easy to have access to a wide range of different translations.
First of all, consider how you'll be reading the Bible...
You might like to start with a translation that avoids too much technical language. Look for one described as 'dynamic equivalent'**.
A translation that focuses more on dynamic equivalence**.
Decide whether it would help you to have the same version as everyone else or a different one so that you can see how different translators have translated the passage you are reading.
A translation that focuses on formal equivalence* will be most helpful.
A translation that focuses more on dynamic equivalence**.
Read a range of translations, choosing at least two formal equivalence* translations.
* A formal equivalence, word-for-word translation gives priority to what the original language says and how it says it. It aims to be a literal translation.
** A dynamic equivalence, thought-for-thought translation gives priority to what the text means. It aims to make the text as readable for a modern audience as possible.
Click on the title to find out more about each translation. You'll notice that some of the same comments appear under pros and cons – this is because some people regard something as a positive, while others regard exactly the same thing as a negative.
Whether you're well versed in Scripture or just starting out on the journey, The Bible Course offers a superb overview of the world’s best-selling book.
Love books? Love book clubs? Welcome to Bible Book Club, helping you read the Bible with your friends – one book at a time. Our helpful guides will give handy background information including tips, discussion questions and some hints for handling those tricky sections. You just need to pick a book, get your friends on board, and get reading! We also have a number of our Bible Book Club guides available in Welsh.
The 'journey through the Bible in 3½ minutes' series
It's a big book – and as well as being a library, it's also it's own story. We've broken that big tale down into three parts, all 3.5 minutes long.