by Paula Geister

Created on: August 27, 2010

When choosing a new Bible, one of the most important things to consider is to look for one that you’ll understand and will read. There will always be parts of the Bible we need help with, but if the basic language of the translation you pick is so far over your head that you never read it, you’ve wasted your money.

There are two types of translations for Bibles you can choose: literal and dynamic. Those that are called essentially literal translations try to capture the precise wording of the original text and the personal style of each Bible author. The emphasis is on word-for-word translation, taking into consideration the differences in grammar, syntax, and idiom between the current language and that of the original. Some examples of literal translations are the King James Version, the English Standard Version, and the Revised Standard Version.

Dynamic equivalent translations follow a thought-for-thought pattern. They’re more inclined to reflect the opinions of the translators and the influences of current culture. Examples of dynamic equivalent translations are the New International Version and the New Living Translation.

Another thing to consider when choosing a Bible is which Bible your pastor is using in the pulpit. While not absolutely necessary, it may help to have the same translation in front of you to follow along in. The more familiar you are with scripture, however, the less this will be true. God’s word means what it means no matter which translation you’re using.

Another thing you can do before choosing a Bible is ask your friends which Bible they read and study from. Have you noticed one of your friends with a Bible that looks worn? There’s a good reason for that. They’ve found one they’re comfortable with and have put it to use for many years.

It’s important to remember you’ll be studying from the Bible as well as reading it. While some Bibles are great as far their conversational tone, they lose so much in the translation that they aren’t as good for the purpose of studying or for use in small groups. A new believer may want something more conversational to read for enjoyment and have another translation to use for Bible study. In addition to that, if your pastor is one who points out the meanings of Greek and Hebrew words in the text, those particular words might not be found in translations that are so conversational.

So now you’re at the bookstore with shelves and

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