Reading the Bible and fully understanding the lessons can be difficult if you’re using the traditional King James version. That said, if you’re a beginner reader or a new Christian, the new international version Bibles are the ideal translations. Not to mention, the NIV translation isn’t excessively manipulating the word of God to the extent that it portrays differently, it’s as true to the lessons as the lightly edited versions. In this article, we’ll delve into comparisons of various translations and why the New International Version is the most popular version.
Easy to Understand English
Reading the Bible should never make us feel like we are reading prose from Shakespearean novels, except they are easier to read and understand. The KJV (King James Version) is one of the world’s standard and most popular English-speaking Bible versions. It was authorized in 1604 by King James I, which is why it includes ancient English style. The King James Version is okay, but it is difficult for 21st-century English readers to read and understand.
The inspiration to include contemporary English led to NIV (New International Version). Many international and trans-denominational scholars have created modern translations from the original Aramaic, Greek, and Hebrew texts. Modern English makes it easier to understand and connect with the Holy Scriptures at an emotional level.
Promoting Thought-for-Thought Translation
You will come across several opinions concerning the translations, coming down to two categories:
- word-for-word
- thought-for-thought
Word-for-Word Translation
Word-for-word translations focus on the literal words and phrases of the Holy Text as they appear in the ancient original documents. They represent the literal translation and are a popular choice among critics, who believe them to be precise. The King James Version (KJV) is an example of word-for-word translation.
Thought-for-Thought Translation
Thought-for-thought emphasizes the overall message or meaning of the Scriptures. Unlike word-for-word translations, thought-for-thought translations are easy to read and comprehend. It is ideal for new readers or Christians to pick the new international version of the Bible because starting the journey of reading the Scriptures should be seamless and enjoyable.
Which Translation is Better?
Both the Holy Scriptures exude the same message, but one is easier to read and understand than another. Often, you will lack the courage to open the Bible and read their lack of understanding upon reading a few phrases and verses from the KJV (Kings James Version). Reading the Holy Scripture is life-changing, and not reading it due to lack of comprehension is a disservice. A beginner should focus on getting an in-depth analysis of the Holy Text and the picture behind it. It allows you to try out reading different versions for deeper insights. If you go through KJV and NIV, you will understand the difference between their use of words and phrases in the Scriptures. Every New Christian follower or Bible reader will prefer NIV for their easy-to-read and comprehend texts.
One of the Most Used Translations
The King James Version (KJV) is a popular Bible translation in the US. The prime reason is its easy accessibility and the translation they have heard in the churches and own a copy in their homes. It necessarily doesn’t mean that you understand what you read. Today, the new international version of the Bible is the most common translation and a popular choice among modern English readers. There is a possibility that when you visit the church or a website, they preach about the Holy Text, referring to the NIV (New International Version). It indicates that it is easier for you to understand and follow the preaching effectively. The millennials and Gen Z prefer the NIV (New International Version) more than the KJV translations.
Conclusion
As a beginner, your goal should be to learn to read and comprehend the Bible. The best translation or version is the one that caters to your goals. Biblical experts and scholars think the NIVs or the new international versions of the Bible are ideal translations.