Bible Question: I am trying to find the best english interpretation of the bible, for study any suggestions? |
Bible Answer: Yours is a very subjective question, but there seems to be a consensus among Bible scholars, pastors, teachers, and students that the two BEST English translations of the Bible are: the New American Standard Bible and the New International Version. . . . For LITERAL accuracy as well as a high degree of readability, the NASB is the favorite of many, many teachers and authors, both little known and well-known. There is a nearly universal agreement that the NASB is *the most literally accurate Bible in the English language*. For further information on this excellent translation, at this website click on "Lockman". . . . Then for readability and clarity of meaning, along with accuracy, the NIV (Zondervan) is first choice for preaching and teaching among a high percentage of pastors and teachers, missionaries, teachers of youth, etc. It is also highly recommended for devotional reading because of its great clarity. . . . Both the NASB and the NIV are well supported by the availability of a wide variety of reference works, such as concordances, etc. Note also that if you acquire a copy of the Amplified Bible, you will have no immediate need of a commentary (nothing against commentaries -- in fact, is not every preacher's sermon a commentary of sorts?). This is because the best commentary is a good translation. Further info on the Amplified Bible is also available by clicking on "Lockman". . . . Also very well liked and highly recommended is the New King James Version. Check this one out, too. . . . Please note: I have not said what my personal favorite(s) is/are. Rather I have given you the general consensus as to the translation with the highest literal accuracy (NASB), as well as the translation with the greatest readability and clarity (NIV). Finally, the bottom line answer to your question is: the best translation is the one *you* TRUST and UNDERSTAND. What good is one without the other? What would it benefit you if you had absolute trust in, say, a highly revered, centuries-old English translation, but found that it contained too many obscure and obsolete expressions and passages? On the other hand, if you happen to be highly proficient in 16th Century English, then go for it. |