From “In the Beginning” to Amen // Introduction to the Bible

Translation Philosophies of Different Bibles

Formal

Functional

Dynamic

Paraphrase

Formal Translation - The motto for this is “as literal as possible, as free as necessary.”

· There is usually some indication of the form/structure of the underlying Hebrew and Greek.

· Keeps Hebrew/Greek metaphors and idioms intact, which means even if the saying is dead or non-relevant, it will stay as is.

Examples: KJV, NKJV, ESV

Functional - The motto here is “translate the meaning.”

· The focus is to get to the meaning of the text, which means it will naturally step closer to interpretation of unclear passages.

· It’s usually easier to read and follow.

· It captures thoughts and phrases in a more concise way.

Examples: NIV, CSB (Christian Standard Bible)

Dynamic - The motto is “translate for readability and accessibility.”

· It is highly readable.

· Modernizes dead metaphors and idioms so we can try to understand what they actually mean.

· It is more theologically accessible.

· A step further into interpretation.

Examples: NLT, Amplified

Paraphrase

· A Retelling: It's a retelling of the biblical message from a modern perspective, not a literal rendering

· Easy to Read: Designed for accessibility, it reads at a much lower grade level, making it popular for first-time Bible readers.

· Interpretive: It offers an interpretation of the text, which can differ from other versions.

· Good for Overview: Useful for getting a feel for familiar passages in a fresh way.

Examples: Message, Passion

The Layout of the Bible - Old Testament

· The Bible is the historical account of God’s creation, pursuit of, and engagement with mankind through a specific lineage.

· The traditional layout has books of the Bible in groupings by type of literature.

· Historical, Law, Wisdom/Poetic, Prophetic

· The Chronological version puts it in the order of events and God’s interaction and man’s response throughout the historical narrative.

From “In the Beginning” to Amen // Introduction to the Bible // January 04, 2026