The English Standard Version (ESV) is the modern English Bible translation with the longest pedigree, reaching back to the King James Version (KJV) of 1611. The language of the English Standard Version (ESV) is truly modern yet faithful to the beauty and poetry of the King James text.
How is the ESV linked to KJV and RSV?
Over four centuries, words and phrases of the King James Version (KJV) have enriched the English language and framed the beliefs and traditions of the English Church. With the modernisations of the Revised Standard Versions (RSV, NRSV) and now the English Standard Version (ESV), the form and meaning of well loved words and phrases are made alive and fresh for today’s Bible readers.
How is the ESV different from other modern versions?
Modern Bibles tend to follow a “thought-for-thought” (or dynamic) translation pattern. Designed to keep the true overall sense, this method arguably gives the translator more influence than the reader. The ESV uses a “word-for-word” (or literal) system. By keeping each individual word true to its original source, word for word translation allows you the reader to make your own interpretation.
The ESV is an essentially ‘literal’ translation. It’s not a paraphrase, like The Message Bible, nor does it try to invent new forms of words or phrases like many recent translations. Instead the ESV translators consider every available Greek and Hebrew original, and provide a precise translation of the original words into modern English.
With an emphasis on literary excellence, the ESV is ideally suited for in-depth Bible study, public reading, preaching, private reflection and reading for the inherent beauty of it’s language.
What will I find inside the ESV?
Experienced Bible users will recognise the traditional ‘chapter and verse’ of the KJV, which makes for easy location and referencing within the text. Readers new to this format will find the numbered verses helpful but not intrusive to the flow of story and themes.
Well known and easily remembered phrases such as those of the Genesis, Psalms, 1 Corinthians 13, and many of the sayings of Jesus, retain their recognisable KJV form. Archaic ‘thees’ and ‘thines’, which might alienate new Bible readers from the beauty of the text, are given their modern ‘you’ and ‘yours’ equivalents.
Ancient weights and measures, like cubits, are provided with modern values, like kilos, and words that have evolved entirely new meanings are explained and alternatives offered.
What range of ESV editions is available to me?
ESV editions are available with reading plans, maps, dictionaries, illustrations and time lines. Readers, leaders, scholars and pastors will find all the resources they need to explore, understand and share the Bible’s relevance in modern, beautiful and readable English.
Contemporary and traditional bindings and cover designs reflect the wide appeal of the ESV among teenagers, students and children. More traditional bindings, larger print editions and gift Bibles ensure that there’s an ESV for everyone of any age and experience in the faith.
Comprehensive ESV study Bibles, down-load and on-line versions together with affordable ‘pew-Bibles’, school Bibles, light weight, compact and paperback editions provide a complete resource for personal reflection wherever you go, for group study, for preaching and for teaching.
Your quick guide to the ESV - English Standard Version Bible
What is it?
- The natural modern English successor to the King James (KJV) Bible
- Recognisably by its form and tone in easily understood modern English
- Translated for textual accuracy in reading, study, and public teaching
Why would I buy it?
- For its word-for-word accuracy in the tradition of the English Church
- For the beauty its connection with its King James Version (KJV)
- As a gift of encouragement for adults, teenagers and children
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