English Standard Version (ESV)

The English Standard Version translation is a revision of the 1971 Revised Standard Version (RSV), updated with modern language while retaining a traditional literary tone.  It has become one of the most widely used modern translations, especially among evangelical, reformed, and conservative Protestant communities.

This translation follows an “essentially literal” (sometimes called formal equivalence) approach.  The translators aimed to stay as close as possible to the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek words and structure, while still using clear, readable English.  The goal is to preserve word-for-word accuracy without sounding archaic.  This makes the ESV more precise than paraphrased or thought-for-thought versions (like the NLT or NIV), yet easier to read than older literal translations like the NASB (especially the 1995 edition).

This translation is written at roughly a 10th grade reading level – it is formal but not overly complex.  Its literary tone is elegant, rhythmic, and traditional.  It is reminiscent of the King James Version, but with modern clarity.  The ESV translation is especially valued for public reading, memorization, and expository preaching because of its balance of accuracy and flow.

Please explore our selection of Bible editions and styles that include the ESV translation below!

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