What is the Difference Between KJV and NIV and TNIV?

The KJV (King James Version), NIV (New International Version), and TNIV (Today's New International Version) are three popular English translations of the Bible. They differ in their translation approaches, language, and target audience.

1. Translation Approach:

• KJV: The KJV, published in 1611, is a word-for-word translation, which aims to maintain the original language structure as much as possible. This can make it more difficult to understand for modern readers due to the use of older language.
• NIV: The NIV, published in 1978, is a thought-for-thought translation, which focuses on conveying the meaning of the original text in a way that is easier for modern readers to understand. It is believed to be an accurate and readable translation.
• TNIV: The TNIV is an updated version of the NIV, which has been replaced by the NIV 2011. It uses gender-inclusive language where appropriate to make the text more accessible to a modern audience.

1. Language:

• KJV: The KJV uses older language, which can be challenging for modern readers to understand.
• NIV: The NIV uses more modern language, making it easier for a contemporary audience to comprehend.

1. Target Audience:

• KJV: The KJV is preferred by those who appreciate its historical significance and traditional language. However, it may be more difficult for beginners and those not familiar with older English to understand.
• NIV: The NIV is popular among those seeking a more modern and accessible translation. It is considered a good choice for beginners and those who want a reader-friendly translation.
• TNIV: The TNIV aims to provide a gender-inclusive translation for a modern audience, making the Bible more accessible to a broader range of readers.

In summary, the KJV is a word-for-word translation that uses older language, while the NIV and TNIV are thought-for-thought translations that use more modern language. The KJV is appreciated by those who value its historical significance and traditional language, whereas the NIV and TNIV cater to modern readers who seek an accessible and easy-to-understand translation.

Comparative Table: KJV vs NIV vs TNIV

Here is a table comparing the differences between the King James Version (KJV), New International Version (NIV), and Today's New International Version (TNIV):

The KJV is a word-for-word translation, which can make it difficult to understand for modern readers. It uses the Textus Receptus for the New Testament and the Masoretic Text for the Old Testament. The NIV, on the other hand, is a thought-for-thought translation, making it easier to read and understand for a modern audience. It uses the Nestle-Aland Novum Testamentum Graece for the New Testament and the Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia for the Old Testament. The TNIV is also a thought-for-thought translation and is an update of the NIV, with most of its content being the same as the NIV.