Bible Translation Comparison Chart
📜 King James Version (KJV)
A classic translation known for its poetic language.
Philosophy: Literal (Word-for-Word)
Accuracy: High (based on older manuscripts)
Strengths: Poetic, historically significant, good for literary study.
Weaknesses: Archaic language, difficult to read.
🔍 New American Standard Bible (NASB)
Known for its extreme word-for-word accuracy.
Philosophy: Very Literal (Word-for-Word)
Accuracy: Very High
Strengths: Excellent for in-depth study, precise, reliable.
Weaknesses: Stiff and awkward to read.
⚖️ English Standard Version (ESV)
A balance of literal accuracy and readability.
Philosophy: Literal (Word-for-Word)
Accuracy: High
Strengths: Accurate, maintains literary flow, good for study and reading.
Weaknesses: Can feel formal for some readers.
📖 New International Version (NIV)
One of the most popular and readable translations.
Philosophy: Balanced (Thought-for-Thought)
Accuracy: High
Strengths: Very readable, accessible, good for new readers.
Weaknesses: Can lose some original nuance.
🗣️ New Living Translation (NLT)
A highly conversational and easy-to-read paraphrase.
Philosophy: Paraphrase (Meaning-for-Meaning)
Accuracy: Aims for meaning, not literal words.
Strengths: Very clear and conversational, easy to understand.
Weaknesses: Less suitable for deep word studies.
✨ The Message (MSG)
A complete paraphrase aimed at capturing the spirit of the text.
Philosophy: Complete Paraphrase
Accuracy: Captures the spirit, not objective translation.
Strengths: Engaging, fresh perspective, easy to read.
Weaknesses: Not reliable for study, heavily interpretive.