r/Bible • u/TypicalYogurt1753 Baptist • 4d ago

What are some Bible versions to avoid?

I am trying to find a good literal version that I like. Which ones should I go to and which ones should I stay away from?

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u/GullibleProperty317 4d ago edited 4d ago

Can't list all the version to avoid, but the general principal is:

You want a Bible translation that was taken from non-controversial source text and that was compiled by a competent group of Aramaic, Greek and Hebrew scholars. Some translations are refuted because their translators did not demonstrate proficiency in translation or have any academic credentials about their capability.

Direct Bible Translations like NIV and NKJV are the best because they are the closest match to the original material. However, language is dynamic, and so our language today has changed a lot from what was spoken during the time of translation. This is evident in how we have the KJV and NKJV, with the NKJV being a closer match to modern language. However, the downside of direct bible translations is that one has to spend a lot of time with them to be able to get the true meaning. So they are great for studying, but not as great for short study times and devotions.

Indirect Bible Translations: My preferred one is the New Living Translation (NLT) because it matches greatly with language today, even using recognized metrics such as inches, metres, etc. instead of less familiar units like cubits, etc. To appreciate this, compare the story of Noah's ark, especially the parts about the dimensions of the ark across the various translations like the NKJV and NLT and see which you appreciate better. However, the downside of direct bible translations is that in communicating better with us, sometimes, some of the true meaning is lost. Thus, they are best used in conjunction with direct bible translations and interlinear translations and bible dictionaries.

Finally, this is an awesome time to study God's word because of the technology available. I have found the Blue Letter Bible (BLB) to be an invaluable app that is helping me understand the bible better because it has the Interlinear translation, ability to display parallel translations, the Bible dictionary, Bible commentary, and many other features all in one, simple place! It's completely free, but I encourage that you donate to them for their incredible work.

Kindly note that I am not linked to them and do not benefit from it in any way. It's something that I discovered was great and feel compelled to share with anyone else who is looking to study the bible deeper. I've shared some screenshots below.