Bible Versions And How It Differs With Translations And Interpretations

Throughout Christianity’s history, the Bible has seen numerous translations, creating an abundance of different Bible versions. Utilized by different denominations, these Bible versions vary in language and interpretations.

When planning a funeral, choosing a Bible version might not immediately come to mind on the list of things-to-do, but doing so may be necessary when searching for Bible verses to read during the service. If pressed for time and unable to reach out to a religious official, this list may prove useful in planning a funeral. 

In addition, you may find Bible verses about grief in various versions of the text that would provide comfort in a time of loss.

The King James Version

The King James Version (KJV) was written in 1611, authorized by England’s King James I. Written during a time when the printing press lowered printing costs and increased literacy, the King James Version was the first Bible available to the people, as opposed to remaining under the control of the Church, writes History.com.

Because this Bible version was able to reach the hands of so many people, it was embraced by the protestant religions. As Puritans, Presbyterians, and Methodists colonized North America, they brought the King James Bible with them.

Today, many denominations prefer modern translations that are more accurate to the source material, due to recent discoveries of ancient Semitic texts, History.com notes. However, there is no denying the prevalence of the King James Version.

A 2014 study found that 55% of Bible readers read the King James Version. This Bible version’s familiarity and poetic, vivid descriptions make it a suitable choice when you plan a funeral.

New International Version

Published in 1978, the New International Version (NIV) began as a modern English translation of the KJV by Howard Long, an engineer living in Seattle, writes Biblica, the International Bible Society. After 10 years of work, his church, the Christian Reformed Church, and the National Association of Evangelicals, embraced his version.

Inspired by Long’s version, a gathering of cross-denominational evangelical scholars decided to write their own new international version by translating original Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic texts.

After 10 years, they completed their work on the New International Version, which was embraced across denominations. With a pledge from the Committee on Bible Translation, the NIV is continuously updated, Biblica explains.

Its commitment to accuracy and modern, easy-to-understand language makes this version a crowd-pleaser for worshipers when planning a funeral and choosing Bible verses for grief.

New Living Translation

The New Living Translation is a Bible version that translates original texts into modern English as simply and literally as possible. According to their site, the New Living Translation sought to clarify confusing metaphors to create an easy-to-read and modern text.

First published in 1996, it has since been revised in 2004, 2007, 2013, and 2015 to maintain accuracy as new translations and interpretations come to light. The New Living Translation site notes that this Bible version is ideal for reading aloud, making it perfect for funeral services and selecting Scripture for grief.

Choosing A Bible Version

As ancient texts are discovered, Bible versions are often updated and translated. In addition to the varieties mentioned here, there are dozens of versions equally important to those who use them to worship. If unsure of which Bible version to choose, the best course of action is to ask a religious figure within your denomination for their advice.

Titan Casket is dedicated to providing you with all the answers you need when it comes to planning a funeral, finding Bible verses to offer comfort in a time of loss, and navigating your grief. We can also help you when it comes to buying a casket.