What’s the difference between KJV and NKJV? This is a common question among Bible readers, especially those who are interested in the history and translation of the Bible. The King James Version (KJV) and the New King James Version (NKJV) are two of the most widely used English translations of the Bible. While they share the same basic text, there are some notable differences that set them apart.
The KJV, first published in 1611, is one of the oldest English translations of the Bible. It was commissioned by King James I of England and was the first English Bible to be translated directly from the original Hebrew and Greek texts. The KJV has a rich history and has played a significant role in shaping the English language and literature.
On the other hand, the NKJV was published in 1982 and is a revision of the KJV. It was created to make the Bible more accessible to modern readers by updating the language and grammar while maintaining the original meaning of the text. The NKJV aims to preserve the beauty and readability of the KJV while making it easier for contemporary readers to understand.
One of the most noticeable differences between the KJV and NKJV is the language. The KJV uses older English words and phrases that may be unfamiliar to modern readers. For example, the KJV uses “thou” and “thee” instead of “you,” and “shalt” instead of “will.” The NKJV, on the other hand, uses more modern English that is easier to understand. This makes the NKJV more accessible to those who are not familiar with the older English used in the KJV.
Another difference is the formatting. The KJV uses a more traditional formatting style, with a chapter and verse numbering system that is familiar to many readers. The NKJV also uses this system, but it includes a more modern layout with wider margins and a more readable font. This makes the NKJV easier to read and follow.
In terms of translation philosophy, the KJV is a word-for-word translation, which means that it aims to translate each word of the original text into English. The NKJV, on the other hand, is a thought-for-thought translation, which means that it aims to convey the meaning of the original text in a way that is understandable to modern readers. This can result in some differences in how certain passages are translated.
One example of this difference is the translation of the word “eunuch” in the book of Esther. The KJV translates the word as “eunuch,” while the NKJV translates it as “sterile.” This change reflects the NKJV’s goal of making the text more understandable to modern readers.
In conclusion, while the KJV and NKJV share the same basic text, there are several differences that set them apart. The KJV uses older English, has a traditional formatting style, and is a word-for-word translation. The NKJV uses more modern English, has a more accessible layout, and is a thought-for-thought translation. Both translations have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them often comes down to personal preference and the needs of the reader.