With so many bible translations out there, it can seem daunting or even intimidating when trying to choose which translation is best for beginners. Some translations are easier to read than others. And a lot of times readers get frustrated because they don’t understand what is being said. That is why it is so important to find an easy-to-understand bible translation to read.
WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR BIBLE TRANSLATIONS?
Here are the top 5 bible translations.
- New International Version (NIV)
- King James Version (KJV)
- New Living Translation (NLT)
- English Standard Version (ESV)
- New King James Version (NKJV)
Some versions are “word for word” translations while others are “thought for thought.” Word-for-word versions translate as precisely as possible from the original language. While thought-for-thought translations are easier to read but not as accurate.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these 5 bible translations.
- NIV – The NIV translation is a thought-for-thought translation that omits and adds words, not in the original language. It is considered the second best in readability after the NLT version.
- KJV – The KJV is known as the most popular of all translations. It is one of the oldest dating back to 1611 when it was first published. It is loved for its poetic language but is considered difficult to read.
- NLT – The NLT is also a thought-for-thought translation and is one of the most easily read translations. It is based on the NIV translation but has more of a modern language to it.
- ESV – The ESV is a word-for-word translation. Translating the exact wording of the original languages into current English. It can be slightly awkward to read due to that reason.
- NKJV – The NKJV is much easier to read than the KJV but still harder than most translations. Its main objective was to preserve the style of the KJV while updating grammar and vocabulary.
WHAT IS THE EASIEST VERSION OF THE BIBLE TO UNDERSTAND?
When it comes to the best bible version for beginners, The New Living Translation is one of the easiest translations of the bible to understand and read. I mainly use this version on my blog. But another great version that I use is the English Standard Version.
WHAT IS THE BEST BIBLE FOR ADULTS?
I would have to say that the best bible for adults would be The Life Application Study Bible NIV. My husband and I both use it. It has study notes at the bottom of the pages and really gives you a clear understanding of the word.
WHAT IS THE BEST BIBLE FOR CHILDREN?
Although I don’t have any children my research shows that the Adventure Bible NLRV (New International Readers Version) is the best pick for children. It boasts of getting children from ages 6-10 excited about getting into God’s word.
WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE TO START READING THE BIBLE?
Once you have picked your favorite translation you need to find a good place to start reading. There are many different opinions on this question. Some say the book of John is a good starting point as it teaches you all about the life of Jesus. While others say it is the book of Psalms. I say pray about it and let God tell you where to start reading. And before you start reading ask God for clarity on what you are reading. This way it is so much easier to understand than if you were to read it without the help of the Lord.
CONCLUSION
When you are shopping for the best bible translations for beginners I use The Bible App. as a great resource to compare the different translations. Keep looking until you find a version that is easy to understand and that makes sense to you. Here are some of my posts that will help you get started once you have picked out a translation you like:
9 Bible Verses to Start Your Day
How to Study the Bible for Beginners
Who is God According to the Bible?
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