A word-for-word translation of the Bible
The Biblical Standard Version — translated directly from the original Hebrew and Greek, with no agenda, no paraphrase, and nothing added.
Translation Philosophy
Most translations make compromises — for readability, for tradition, for doctrine. The Biblical Standard Version makes only one commitment: say what the text actually says.
We stay as close to the original Hebrew and Greek as English allows. Key terms are translated consistently — we never change a word's rendering just because tradition prefers something else. When a word is disputed, we translate it and note the dispute. We do not choose sides for you.
"Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar." — Proverbs 30:6
The original authors wrote in the common language of their day — not elevated literary Greek or formal religious Hebrew. We aim for the same. If a 7th grader cannot follow it, we rework it until they can. Clarity is not a compromise — it is faithfulness to the original intent.
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." — Psalm 119:105
No denomination funded this translation. No theological tradition shaped its word choices. Disputed passages are included and noted — never quietly removed or quietly elevated. We do not interpret. We do not paraphrase. We do not improve on Scripture. We translate it and step aside.
"All Scripture is God-breathed." — 2 Timothy 3:16
Get the BSV Bible
All volumes available in paperback and hardcover. Printed and fulfilled through Amazon KDP — delivered to your door.
The BSV New Testament
Matthew through Revelation — complete and unabridged
Genesis through Deuteronomy
The Law — the foundation of all Scripture
Joshua through Esther
The History — God's faithfulness through Israel's story
Job through Song of Solomon
The Wisdom — poetry and truth for the human soul
Isaiah through Malachi
The Prophets — voices calling God's people back to faithfulness
Free Access
The Biblical Standard Version is available to read completely free — no account, no paywall. The printed volumes fund the ministry. The Word itself is free.
The complete Biblical Standard Version as a PDF — download and read anywhere, on any device.
Download Free PDFFull translation with highlighting, notes, bookmarks, search, and multiple reading modes.
Use the BSV in e-Sword on Windows or Mac. Includes .bblx and .bbli module files plus install instructions.
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The BSV Bible App
Available on the App Store for iPhone and iPad, and installable on Android and desktop as a progressive web app.
AI-Powered Q&A
Have a question about a translation choice, a specific word, or why the BSV renders something differently? Ask below — powered by Claude AI, guided by the translator's own principles.
Feedback
This translation is a living work. If you find an error, have a question, or want to suggest an improvement — please tell us. Every submission goes directly to the translator.