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Choosing The Right Bible
Want to know which Bible to choose? This guide takes you through the different versions and features, helping you find the right Bible for you.
By Aaron – Eden Bibles & Bible Study Specialist
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Want to know which Bible to choose? This guide takes you through the different versions and features, helping you find the right Bible for you.
Click here to claim your FREE 97-page eBook 'How To Choose Your Bible'
The Best Bibles to Buy
Quick Guide: Which Bible is right for you?
It’s hard to know which Bible to get.
There are dozens of translations, each with a different style and approach. So here is our trusted guide to which Bible you should buy. We also cover some common terms you’ll find when browsing.
There is no one way to translate a book as large as the Bible.
With such a long distance between the time of the Bible and now, translation is really more of an art than a science. One that seeks to communicate the Bible’s truth to today’s readers. That means that there are numerous different Bible translations out there. Nowadays, they are more commonly called different versions of the Bible. The two words, though meaning different things, are used pretty interchangeably. For ease, I’m just going to stick with ‘version’.
The big stumbling block for people trying to choose a Bible is which version to pick. There is a lot to choose from. It also doesn’t help that they almost all go by acronyms. How would you, as a new Christian, feel if you were asked to choose from NIV, ESV, NRSV, NLT, KJV, NKJV?
To help you choose with speed and confidence, here is a run-through of the most popular versions of the Bible.
Short for the New International Version Bible, the NIV is the most popular version of the Bible. It’s written in pretty standard English and is the one you’ll most likely find in a Church. Its simple text means that it is often given away to new Christians. If you are looking for a first Bible, the NIV Bible would be a solid choice.
Short for the New Living Translation Bible, the NLT is one of the most accessible and easy-to-read versions of the Bible. It’s written in smooth, conversational modern English and reads almost like a novel. Its focus on thought-for-thought clarity means that it is often the go-to choice for youth groups and new Christians. If you are looking for a highly understandable first Bible, the NLT Bible would be a solid choice.
For almost as long as there have been English Bibles, there has been the King James Version Bible. This one is the classic Bible. It was made to be a Bible for the people, but it is now seen as more of a difficult Bible that is the mainstay of seasoned readers and Christians. It’s very poetic and not easy to read, but it is also the best written of all the Bibles. This has led many people to wonder if Shakespeare wrote the King James Bible.
Short for the New King James Version Bible, the NKJV is a highly accurate, modern update to the classic 1611 translation. It’s written in updated English while preserving the majesty of the original text. Its commitment to word-for-word accuracy means that it is often the go-to choice for traditional churches and deep theological study. If you are looking for a Bible that perfectly balances historical tradition with modern readability, the NKJV Bible would be a solid choice.
The UK's favourite Bible. The Good News Bible is a relevant, readable and reliable translation of God's word. The Good News Bible features Annie Vallotton’s iconic line drawings, along with the easy-to-read style. This makes the Good News Translation a highly popular choice for all ages. Especially children and youth.
Like the King James Bible, the ESV Bible is a complex and rich version. The main difference between the two is the nearly 400 years between them. The ESV was the choice of many Bible scholars, students, teachers and preachers. Now, though, that has changed somewhat. With a range of attractively presented journaling and illustrating editions, the ESV has become a choice for creative journalers thanks to the intended beauty and richness of the version.
Looking for more insight into the range of Bibles available today? Our FREE 97-page eBook 'How to Choose Your Bible' offers a deeper look at everything you need to know about the Bible.
In the world of Bible translation, there is often a perceived trade-off. You can have a Bible that is either accessible to modern readers or one that holds fidelity to original manuscripts far and above all else. I’ll come back to ‘perceived’ in a minute, but for anyone new to Bibles, this distinction is a useful guide.
So, you’d be surprised to know that translators don’t like to refer to their translations as “easy to read” or “accurate but difficult”. They call the translation styles by a different set of names: formal, dynamic, and idiomatic.
In short, these names describe how the Bible is translated.
Imagine a spectrum of how accurate a Bible is. At one end are all the literal Bibles. At the other, paraphrases. But that division is not nearly as simple or true as we’d like to think. After all, no Bible sets out to be purposefully inaccurate. Nobody is trying to water down the Bible. Because language and meaning have changed so much in 2,000 years, simply translating words on a one-to-one basis is impossible. Language doesn’t work that way. If every word in German, for example, had a one-to-one English translation, we wouldn’t be using words like iceberg, doppelganger, kindergarten, and schadenfreude.
It’s worth bearing in mind that every Bible translation has an element of interpretation. There is no trade-off between accuracy and readability because there is no way to have a translation of the Bible that is 100% accurate.
So, when picking a Bible, don’t feel like you have to go for a word-for-word Bible. They are right for a particular reader, but if you are new to choosing a Bible, then feel free to explore the wider array of what is available.
When choosing a Bible, there still tends to be these three main avenues. Word-for-word, thought-for-thought, and paraphrase. To help you find the right Bible, here’s a quick list of the most popular Bible versions, grouped by these three different styles.
Formal means they kept to the form the text takes. This means being literal right down to the very words used. The more common name for this is ‘word-for-word translation’.
Formal Translations of the Bible
Dynamic plays a little looser with the exact words used and instead seeks to communicate the meaning of the text. To try and communicate the text so that we would understand it in the same way that somebody alive at the time of the original text’s creation would have understood it.
These Bibles are called ‘thought-for-thought’ translations.
Dynamic Translations of the Bible
Idiomatic is the loosest of the three. Just as an idiom is one way of saying something in a way that is colourful, imaginative or easy to understand, so too is Idiomatic translation. An easier way to understand this is by the other name used for this style, "Paraphrase". Paraphrases use expressly contemporary language to share the message of the Bible.
Idiomatic Translations of the Bible
For pure ease of reading, there are two sets of Bibles we’d recommend:
These two types of Bible translation place an emphasis on making the message of the Bible approachable and easier to understand.
Now that we’ve covered the text of the Bible, let's look at everything else.
All translations of the Bible are published in a huge range of covers and styles. Editions specifically designed for children, youth culture and presentation purposes are plentiful. Softcover (paperback), leather cover, metal and even waterproof covers make Bibles practical for many uses and circumstances. And all translations come in a range of print sizes from the most compact to large, easily readable editions.
After choosing covers and print size, the next choice is between the standard 66 books (with more in Catholic Bibles) or one with extra material.
These ‘Bibles-plus’ contain information, illustrations, charts, tables, timelines and notes from Bible scholars. They’re all intended to help you get more out of your Bible reading, whether you read for personal devotion, study, teaching or public ministry.
There are three main types of Bible intended to enrich the reader's experience and understanding. These are Commentaries, Reference Bibles and Study Bibles. There are many similarities in what these Bibles provide, though each tends to specialise in providing the reader with a particular sort of assistance.
Bible Commentaries offer greater understanding with background information, notes on authorship, historical context, Bible themes and life application. Some are ordered ‘thought by thought’, and others follow a 'verse-by-verse’ structure.
Every translation of the Bible is supported by at least one Bible commentary. Many cover the whole Bible in one volume. Other commentaries form a series of books, each matched to a separate Testament or individual Bible book.
The great strength of a commentary Bible is the scriptural insight given by the author, usually a noted and experienced scholar. Commentaries by the great Bible teachers of the past can be compared with those written with the benefit of modern research to show how spiritual thought has developed or remains unchanged.
Reference Bibles are put together so they read like any Bible, but provide links or ‘cross-references’ between related words, phrases, topics, themes or people throughout the whole Bible.
This means you can easily find places in the Bible where the same story is told, the same theme is discussed, the same person appears or the same idea is explored.
Reference Bibles allow you to follow how God reveals his message over many centuries and through many people and events. Often this means ‘cross-referencing’ words of prophecy - the promises and warnings given by God - with the fulfilment of them later in the Bible.
Study Bibles are the most comprehensive Bibles. This is in terms of the amount of background and historical information they include.
Study Bibles usually include a dictionary of Bible terms, diagrams and maps, a time chart, a daily reading plan, introductions and outlines of each book. Discussion starters and even puzzles might be included depending on the intended readers.
As with most commentary and reference Bibles, study Bibles usually include a life application Bible as a guide and support to applying the truth of the Bible to everyday life.
Finally, but just as important, is to know if you're choosing a Bible to keep in one place or to travel with you.
All Bible translations and just about all commentary, reference and study Bibles are available in slimline, pocket and easy-to-read large print editions to suit your needs.
No two Bibles are the same. The features that help you read and navigate the text of the Bible vary between editions. Here is a quick rundown of the most popular Bible features available today. Make a note of what you find useful or interesting. These terms will be what lead you to your perfect Bible. You can also use our QUICK BIBLE FINDER to quickly pick the right Bible for you.
The text of an Anglicised Bible is written with UK spelling and grammar, as opposed to US spelling and grammar.
Books not traditionally found in most Bibles. The Books and non-canonical texts of the Apocrypha are 1 Esdras, 2 Esdras, Tobit, Judith, Rest of Esther, Wisdom, Ecclesiasticus, Baruch and the Epistle of Jeremy, Song of the Three Children, Story of Susanna, The Idol Bel and the Dragon, Prayer of Manasseh, 1 Maccabees, 2 Maccabees.
Cased Bibles come with an additional layer of protection or decorations. Usually in cloth and imitation leather, Bible cases can also be bought separately.
A Bible that organised the references in the text into a thematic, topical or logical chain.
The books and stories of the Bible are not presented in the order they are said to have happened. Chronological Bibles present the Bible in historical order.
A clasp across the Bible’s cover that keeps it closed.
A smaller-sized Bible that is easy to transport.
A guide to the meanings of names and words found in the text of the Bible.
Notes that indicate where a verse either references or is referenced by another part of the Bible text
A Bible that has been broken down into smaller, often daily, readings.
A cheaper Bible that is often designed for giving away as an outreach tool.
A Bible made to be passed down through the generations of a family. It features a series of presentation spaces for names and relations.
A Bible that is made as a gift or at special events. These are often cheaper than usual Bibles, feature a stylish design and include features to help with reading the Bible.
A Bible that has coloured edges of a page, often in silver or gold.
The books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These are all accounts of the life of Jesus told by four different people.
A Bible that has illustrations inside. These can be found in children’s Bibles, Bibles with sections for colouring, and most famously in the Good News Bible.
A Bible that simply presents the Hebrew or Greek text alongside its English language translation.
Halfway between a Bible and a notebook, Journaling Bibles have thicker paper and wider margins for you to write in.
A bible whose text is printed in a larger font than is usually found in Bibles.
A Bible that features articles and aids to help you apply the Bible text to the Christian life.
Charts of the land as it would have been known at the time of the Bible.
A Bible that has been structured into 365 daily readings or comes with a plan for reading the whole book in a year.
Parallel Bibles feature two translations of the Bible in one binding. A kind of two-for-one. They can contrast different Bible versions or even different languages. Parallel Bibles often feature one translation on one page and another translation on the next.
A Bible that has been written in a modern or expressive language, rather than formally translated from the original scriptures.
Plain editions of the Bible that are designed for Churches and groups.
A space in the front of a Bible marked for writing a name, date and message. Most often found in Gift Bibles.
Large-sized Bibles that are used for Church readings. Both the overall size and the text are scaled up, making reading from a distance easier.
A thin strip of cloth that can be used in lieu of a bookmark.
A Study Bible features extras such as articles, commentaries, features, notes and other aids to deeper Bible reading.
Books for individuals and groups that help you understand more of what the Bible is saying, and how it is saying it.
With thinner paper and covers, these Bibles aren’t as thick as traditional Bibles. They tend to be roughly an inch thick.
A Bible-navigation feature, a thumb index is a series of stickers or indents on the page edges that mark out where each book of the Bible begins.
A Bible with a greater amount of space at the page edges. This is for great notes and reflections, as well as journaling and decorating.
A Bible that prints the words spoken by Jesus in red. This is as opposed to the black text used for the rest of the Bible.
A Bible with a cover that can be sealed by a zip. Most often found in compact and pocket Bibles
Once you've seen the features you want, you can now find the Bible that matches how you want to read. Use our Bible Finder to discover your next Bible today.
The best Bible for beginners is one that’s easy to read and understand. Popular choices include:
Bible translations differ in how they balance accuracy and readability:
The NLT (New Living Translation) and Good News Bible are often considered the easiest to understand because of their simple, conversational language. They’re great for casual reading and devotionals.
A Study Bible includes additional notes, maps, and guides to help readers understand the context and meaning of scripture. Examples include:
A Journaling Bible has wide margins or blank pages for writing notes, reflections, or prayers. They’re popular with creative individuals who like to engage with scripture through writing or drawing.
Bibles designed for children often include illustrations, simplified language, and engaging features:
A Devotional Bible includes daily readings, reflections, and prayers designed to guide readers through scripture. It’s ideal for creating a consistent spiritual habit.
Red Letter Bibles print the words of Jesus in red ink, making it easier to identify His teachings within the text.
A Parallel Bible features two or more translations side by side, making it easier to compare versions. For example, it might include the NIV and KJV in the same book.
Consider how and where you’ll use your Bible:
Shop Compact Bibles | Large Print Bibles
A Gift Bible is designed for special occasions like baptisms, confirmations, and weddings. They often feature presentation pages and stylish designs.
An Anglicised Bible uses British spelling and grammar, as opposed to American styles, making it ideal for UK readers.
Yes! Many Bibles come with reading plans, including One Year Bibles that organise scripture into daily readings.
A Life Application Bible includes notes and guides to help readers apply scripture to their everyday lives.
Bibles like the NIV Gift Bible or KJV Gift and Award Bible are affordable yet beautifully designed for gifting.
Catholic Bibles include additional books in the Old Testament, known as the Deuterocanonical books or Apocrypha. Examples include the Good News Bible Catholic Edition.
Yes, some Bibles are designed with waterproof pages, perfect for outdoor activities or tough environments.
To see the full range of Bibles today, with free UK delivery on any Bibles over £15, visit the Eden Bible Store today. You can also browse our extensive collection of Bible Study Guides to help you get more from God's word.
The Bible contains 66 books, 39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament. Here is the complete list in order, with every book grouped by section, plus guidance on where to start reading.
Wondering what 9-point or 12-point font actually looks like? Use our visual Bible font size comparison chart to find the perfect Large, Giant, or Super Giant print.
Why read Song of Songs? Discover 7 compelling reasons to read the Bible's ancient love poem, plus the best translation recommendations for romantic poetry.
Why read Exodus? Discover 7 compelling reasons to read the Bible's ultimate liberation epic, plus the best translation recommendations for study and daily reading.
Why read Mark? Discover 7 compelling reasons to read the Bible's shortest, fastest-paced Gospel, plus the best translation recommendations for daily reading.
