Since the ancient translations of the Bible are usually more difficult for modern readers to grasp, many variations have been created to make the text easier to digest. In this article, you will encounter some of the translations of the Bible that uses more modern language and text, such as the Contemporary English Version.
Contemporary English Version ,
Known as the CEV in short, the Contemporary English Version comes in a New Testament version of 1991 and an Old Testament version of 1995. Presented in a manner that a fourth grader could read, this version is more readable than other options. However, the text stays true to the meaning of the original texts. An example of a difference that is seen in the version includes the way that nouns describing God’s actions are displayed, such as righteousness and salvation. The complicated language found in other versions is avoided. The sentence structure and overall vocabulary appears much easier to grasp.
Studies conducted by Barclay Newman in 1985 was used as inspiration for what was called the ‘CEV project.’ Speech patterns found in books, magazines, newspapers, and television were taken into account with a concentration on how English was read and heard. The Contemporary English Version incorporates three different principles. The CEV needed to be understood by people without stumbling in speech. The version needed to be understood who were unfamiliar with ‘Bible’ language and terms. The version was meant for everyone to understand.
English Standard Version (2001) ,
Also referred to as ESV, the English Standard Version relies on the traditional principles of word-for-word translation. The translation is considered one of the most accurate. The benefit to reading this version is that it is quite similar to the original meaning of the text, yet is presented in easy-to-read and understand English.
English Version for the Deaf ,
The Bible has also been translated to meet the needs of the deaf. The translation is not presented in a simple English, but was carefully created to speak to the thought patterns and unique language needs of the deaf. The New Testament dates back to 1978, while the Old Testament version emerged in 1986. The book reads on a sixth grade level.
Geneva Bible New Testament (1602) ,
When reading this New Testament version, you will encounter text that reads much like the King James Version. There is commentary included that reflects Puritan theological views.
God’s Word ,
Referred to as GW in short, God’s Word relies on a translation process adopted by global mission organizations for when they translated the Bible into foreign languages. The system was meant to present different forms of the original biblical languages into a manner that modern English readers could grasp. The New Testament version appeared in 1988, while the Old Testament was released in 1995.