Awesome video! Thanks for the shoutout! I've paused the video before you revealed the #1 spot to make a guess - Treveris. I agree 100% with your choices.
Wow! I'm really honored, Randy! Thank you! I don't really live in the Bible reviews space. I appreciate your work and that of Tim Wildsmith and Tim Nickels, but I'm pretty happy with what I have and I don't see myself trying to move into your territory. ;) But when I do, it's good to know my judgment doesn't fail!
Someone surely commented on this earlier, but as a preacher I NEED the verse-by-verse format. When I stand in the pulpit with a paragraphed Bible the verse under consideration tends to get lost. But even in some verse-by-verse Bibles the verse numbers are so small that they disappear.
I actually prefer two column text. With my low vision, it is easier to track. My favorite KJV is teh Humble Lamb Lion. In the bottom footnotes, most of the "false friends" words are explained. In additions, cross references are also included in the footnotes. The Lion version's quality is exceptions. The goatskin leather is very supple, compliant and lies flat right out of the box.
Yes, there are some really nice touches in those Humble Lamb editions. And I recognize that some folks have different eyes (I'm told I'll get them soon!) and different preferences for double for single column!
Mark, I appreciate your graciousness toward KJ only-ists. I also admire your well-balanced treatment of the subject. You certainly cannot be legitimately accused of being unfair toward or anti KJ. As I mentioned in a previous comment, your ministry is vital for the church. Keep up the good work.
I agree. Mark is not a major kjv reader he is respectful and fair.I personally prefer the nkjv but also use several critical text bibles. Love gods word Toni's husband
Yes the Red Nelson KJV is the best KJV edition available. It has good updates to older terms and corrects the translation in many instances. Also the papers is 36gsm and the red leather is so smooth and "spongy".
10:25 For the KJV, I don't mind pilcrows; 'tis a shame that the KJV printers ran out of those characters somewhere in Acts and didn't continue them through the rest of the New Testament.
I love that the NCPB places the text first and then adds the chapter numbers. This is most obvious in Acts 22 which continues the sentence from 21. This Bible prints it as one sentence and adds the chapter number within the paragraph. I think the margin would be even better, though.
The New Cambridge Paragraph is my favorite KJV due to the layout and the inclusion of quotation marks around speech. It's the easiest reading KJV I've encountered. Just wish it was on more opaque paper.
I have been reading some from the Matthew's Bible. I love it pre-dates the KJV and 2 Timothy 2:15 is translated. 15 Be diligent to show yourself laudable to God, a workman who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
For me an ideal edition of the KJV would probably be a combination of: - Epistle Dedicatory; - the Translators' To The Reader; - double column; - verse by verse layout; - red letter (Cambridge style); - self-pronunciation; - top of page headings; - with Apocrypha; - elements of the TBS Classic Reference Bible (centre colomn and decluttering of the scriptures from superscript), but more exsorstive; - elements of the TBS Westminster Reference Bible (chapter headings, word explanations, unit of measure and money conversions); - availability in 1611 text and 1762 Cambridge text, but a nice roman type (Cambridge Cameo style); - art guilding; - available in a variety of high quality leathers and colours; - a variety of beautiful coloured maps; - a variety of beautiful coloured pictures; and - concordance.
For me, it's the New Cambridge Paragraph Bible, no contest. It includes almost everything I would want--the Epistle Dedicatory, The Translators to the Reader, the Apocrypha, the original marginal notes--with a pleasant layout to boot. I just wish it had carried over the original cross-references, too, as some of them do double-duty as justifications for the translators' word choices. It also makes no effort to indicate the translators' supplied words, and while I don't care for italics, there has to be _something_ they could use that won't be too distracting. The Clarion is a strong runner-up, as it includes three of the four things I listed above, but it's missing the Apocrypha. It's not really a complete KJV without those books. The Westminster Reference Bible again contains three of the four items I want in a KJV, but it looks hideous. That's unfortunate, as it includes two major things that are missing from both the NCPB and the Clarion: the original 1611 chapter headers and a set of marginal notes giving modern synonyms for archaic words. If I could get the WRB's marginal apparatus in the Clarion format with the Apocrypha included, I would probably be content. An honorable mention for me would be the Matthew Henry Study Bible from Hendrickson. It uses the Scrivener Cambridge Paragraph Bible as its base, so it includes the 1611 translator notes and presents the text in a highly-readable format. It's missing some other things that I would want, but it's better than nothing. This same text is used in their KJV edition of the Fire Bible, so that's a fair option for Charismatics. I feel like badgering Hendrickson to release the entirety of the 1873 Cambridge Paragraph Bible, including the introductory content and the Apocrypha, but I don't have much confidence that they'd listen.
Have you tried a Ruckman reference Bible? He keeps in the Original 1611 Header's, and I believe the marginal notes (though I cannot confirm that yet, until I get my own). But Ruckman understands the importance of every single one of those references and marginal notes are important
@@captainkrajick In the edition of the Ruckman Reference Bible that I just checked, the headers were not the 1611 headers. Perhaps they were taken from some edition of the KJV, or maybe they were in some way inspired by the original headers, but they are definitely different.
@18:50 1: what is a perickapy? (not sure how to spell it) I have never heard that word before. 2: I completely disagree with you about the drop caps I think they look very nice and eligant. You asked why they have them in one and not in another, obviously they have them at the beginning of each chapter. Also the chapters have to be set apart, otherwise how would you be able to find a given chapter in a reasonable amount of time?
1. A pericope is "an extract from a text, especially a passage from the Bible." Good reminder-I should have defined that word. I like headings above my pericopes. 2. It's ok! We can still be friends! But I really do disagree. I wonder what people better trained than I in typography would think about the drop caps if we did a poll. On chapters, though, I've seen them marked off in this format in subtle and still helpful ways. I've seen "2:1" in the margin, or "2" in a bigger font and "1" in a smaller one. There are strategies!
The Define KJV version you have is my most favorite. Can I have it instead? I received one circa 2005 but I gave it to one of my closest friends I met. Now I can't find any version available similar to that here in my country.
@@markwardonwords I'm from Philippines. Premium KJV Bible is scarce here and cant find similar you shown here and from previous videos to any christian bookstore. It might just be me 🤔
Hello, dr. Ward. I have noticed a couple of times, that you seem to prefer single-column layout. Do you find it easier to read, or is there some other reason? I personally find wide columns to be obnoxious and more tiresome to read, and don't see how anyone could prefer them. Many "reader" editions also tend to have light/faded font, which makes the wide/chunky columns even worse. That red KJV was beautiful, though🙂
@@markwardonwords Thanks for the feedback. Of course, we all have different preferences, so to each his own I really appreciate your videos, especially on KJVO, as that phenomenon has spread to non-english countries. The arguments against KJVO works just as well in other languages🙂
I have asked this on other UA-cam videos, perhaps even on your channel, not sure, but do you know what text edition of the KJV is used by Nelson? I mean obviously not the 1611, but is it the Blayney revision of 1769? Also, i have that 1611 edition by the Bible museum, awesome to have and i do use it in my studies. I also have the small Hendrickson 1611 in genuine leather. It seems to be pretty much the same, only in Roman type rather than Gothic. Are you aware of any difference that would make it not a true 1611? Other than the print? I mean the content seems to be the same in my limited comparison. Thanks and God bless 🙏
The Nelson one is beautiful but I agree. Single Column paragraph is my favorite. Cambridge Clarion is my favorite, with a close second being the New Cambridge Paragraph Bible.
I just got the red Thomas Nelson a couple of weeks ago. I like it quite a bit, although I could nitpick and mention some differences in the layout that I would prefer. I do like that they also have the old English words at the bottom of the page; and they do have some false friends notated like 2 Timothy “study” and 1 kings “halt.”
I was using it for my daily reading it last night, and ran across another instance of “study” in 1 Thessalonians 4:11, “ye study to be quiet.” And the foot notes indicate that this instance of study means to aspire.
Hey Mark, i was reading my kjv yesterday and run across Exodus 22:28. It says do not revile the gods. Am i right to think this is a translation error. Should it read God instead of the Gods. Nkjv translates God. Thank you
This is a great question. It's also an ancient disagreement. The LXX and Vulgate go with something like "gods," like the KJV. I'm hesitant to say that what the LXX and the Vulgate and the KJV all chose is wrong. But modern translations have definitely voted against those venerable translations in this place.
I would love recommendations for a parallel KJV + LXX/TR or MT/TR, if such a thing exists! I'd also settle for just the New Testament. I want something I can discreetly take to church. I use my phone for this purpose currently but I would rather avoid that. I found one New Testament from the 19th century (British and Foreign Bible Society). It looks quite nice on Google Books -- it's even paragraphed! -- but using an antique is hardly discreet! I wonder how big it is. The other two I found from the 2010s look to be rather hard on the eye.
YOOOOOOOO the first Bible you showed was the same Bible I used daily and take everywhere. Because of the footnotes, which do clarify the false friends and archaic words, it's easy to use when studying with other people, although I carry around several thinlines of other translations for the purpose of studying with others. Some of the things you don't like about it are things I don't either, however the paragraph headings separate the paragraphs, since everything is laid out verse by verse. This Bible replaced the KJV single column paragraph Bible that Thomas Nelson released years ago, which has everything in a nice paragraph format and includes footnotes derived from the Cambridge Paragraph Bible. The poetry formatting is from the Cambridge Paragraph Bible of 1873, which is why initially I didn't like the formatting of the single column one you mention in this video, but like I said the paragraph headings helped me get over that issue.
Scofield taught that there were 4 different Gospels..and I don’t mean Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. He taught many false and confusing doctrines that have had a horrible long lasting impact on the western Christian church. I was one of those who God had to reeducate after years of being taught by people who believed his teachings.
Wow, Mark, I was shocked to see your youtube title so I had to watch the whole presentation. Interesting to hear your critique on this. Your dishonorable mention is the Bible I have been using for the past 12 years. It's getting close to falling apart, so I will be getting a study Bible next, which I hope I won't wear out like that past four Bibles, of which 3 of them I still have on my Bible shelf. I suppose it depends on what you grew up with and how good your eyes are. My mind and eyes are locked into the double column format with the verse numbers stuck to each verse. The Defined Bible has no basic study notes in which I prefer fundamental Bible references in a historicist perspective. I like the plain text with no distractions because I feel I need to depend on the Holy Spirit to teach me first and foremost and if I still don't understand, ask Jesus to show me spiritual scholarship that would point me in the right direction. I have the same thoughts of the Defined Bible that the cover heading looks weird and the lack of chapter headings and subtitles really hurts because they would have made it so much easier to find areas of interest in the Bible.
The Thomas Nelson Sovereign edition KJV is like the poor man's Schuyler Canterbury KJV, and has the advantage of notes that define obscurities. The Leathersoft edition could have fooled me into believing it was genuine leather, but you can get a genuine leather version of it. Their KJV Paragraph-style Large Print Thinline Bible has things laid out in proper paragraphs, and has all the features of the Sovereign, but the cover is not as well done. Unfortunately neither includes the Apocrypha, nor the original KJV notes, which I think are often interesting and insightful. My ideal KJV (short of one that lightly revised the obscurities of the text) would be something like the Cambridge New Paragraph, but with section headers, and definitions of obscure words and phrases in the margin. One other problem with the Cambridge New Paragraph is that it is only available in 8 point font, and that is a bit too small for me at my age, though it is still readable. I would prefer something in a 10 point font or above.
Thomas Nelson does have one edition of the KJV with the Apocrypha, but they kinda blundered it. (And they included a translation of 3 Maccabees that seemed to have materialized out of nowhere--the KJV committee never translated that book!)
@@MAMoreno I'm glad they made a first attempt, but they also had no notes or cross references, and some typos. I hope they try it again, and fix the problems.
Hurrah for the Treveris, my personal favorite. The marginal verse numbers are particularly suited to the KJV which starts every verse with a capital letter.
Just curious if you have ever done a review of a Ruckman Reference Bible or the common man’s reference bible? Not a fan of either one but would love to see a review from you on those.
For me, the combination of The New Cambridge Paragraph Bible and the Schuyler Treveris would be the best Bible layout. That is, I would take the Cambridge layout as is, just put all chapter and verse numbers in the margin as in the Treveris, but without drop caps to indicate the beginning of each chapter. Also, no line spaces between chapters. I am often jealous of my English speaking brothers and sisters for the wealth of choice between excellent English translations and numerous editions they come in. There are a number of translations in my language (Croatian), but mostly Roman Catholic from many decades ago, and some newer Protestant based on MT/TR, with one NLT-like modern one. And every one of those translations comes in only one text layout, though some come in two different layouts, depending on the size of the Bible. So, none on a LSB/ESV level of scholarship, consistency, and precision (let alone a choice of single column/two-column, paragraph/verse-by-verse, hard cover/leather). Someday, hopefully.
I do like their dropcaps in the KJV Lion better than those in the Treveris. But overall I kinda see Humble Lamb as gaudy. =| They're doing a lot of things well, though, I will happily say.
One other thing I also find odd about the Defined King James Bible (which I do have a copy of and I'm willing to put up with its odd looking layouts because I want to find a King James Bible that defines the archaic words) is how it doesn't even separate the Old and New Testament books, it immediately goes straight from Malachi to Matthew.
I have the same edition of the KJV 1611 facsimile, which I got from the Museum of the Bible in Arizona (where my wife is from). What a fun visit! I look forward to going there again. Rumor has it, they possessed (for a short duration) a copy of Tyndale's 1526 NT (which they turned around and sold to either the British Library or British Museum for $2.2 million---I can't remember which).
I am glad you showed your copy of 1611 KJV but I didn't believe it contains the Apocrypha until you open the pages then I saw a page from Baruch which from the Apocrypha that's interesting I wonder if the Anglican explain that it's not part of the Hebrew Bible but was included in the Septuagint if I'm not mistaken.
Right.Personally I prefer to read the Scriptures in the protestant Bible.I was a former Roman Catholic but after I got saved I'm now attending an independent Baptist.
@@joseenriqueagutaya131The Apocrypha has historically been included in "Protestant" Bibles but it classified as good to read, not Scripture. Which is actually the official view of the EO and Arminian Orthodox churches too....
Hey Mark, have you come across the "simplified KJV" by Barbour? I'm in South Africa and they have some really nice edition that my Wife loves. I have flicked through but haven't read through comprehensively. Any chance you've had oppurtunity to work through it yet? Trust you are well!
It's an update done by copyeditors, not Bible scholars, so it is essentially what it claims to be: the exact set of translation decisions made by the KJV committee, but in modern English. You could quibble over whether or not they did their job perfectly, but Peachtree Publishing Services was not trying to make a new translation (or even "make a good one better") when they edited the Simplified KJV.
@@MAMoreno interesting! Yes I noticed they stated it on the slip cover in the shop. Do you have any idea what they decided to do with the “false friends” that Mark identifies? I really only had a minute or so to look, but I’m hoping to visit the store again soon to sit with it. Such an interesting project - albeit one that I will probably never use myself
@@sethtbaguley Their main goal was to update the "false friends" and other archaisms. If I were to nitpick their work, I'd say that they went a tad too far by updating "thou," especially since users of the KJV appreciate being able to see when "you" is singular, but I guess they thought that people would find "thou" strange in a sentence that uses modern verb endings: "Thou are." If you want to read it at home online, try here: www.simplifiedkjv.com/read.html
I highly recommend the Thomas Nelson KJV Reference Bible, Giant Print. It has book introductions and a HUGE number of references for making sense of the "weird" words. Looking at 2 Timothy 2:15, it mentions that "study" means "be diligent" and "shew" means "present". This edition has made me much more successful reading the KJV. In 1 Kings they mention "will you falter" for "halt".
Really enjoying your content Mark. I am wondering if you have made a video covering translations that make/don’t make the distinction between singular and plural “you” in Luke 22:31-32 that the KJV has the advantage with its archaic language?
Did you see my recent KJB Study Project videos? There are two. Check the first one. Or if you’ve asking if I’ve done more discussion than that, the answer is no. I may have beat that dead horse enough. ;) ua-cam.com/video/q4nCu8K1qqM/v-deo.htmlsi=m_aYvN9NGnr7fLb1
One of the KJVs I have and use most (when I use it) is a large print, verse by verse 1980 edition published by "The Christian Bible Society" with words of Christ in red. One feature with this edition is when there are archaic or hard-to-understand words, they are underlined and then an easier word is placed in the space between the verses. For Zechariah 1:21 the “easier” word for fary is terrify; 2 Tim 2:15 is also unnoted as yours is and 1 Kings 18:21 halt is noted to mean ‘hesitate.’
For my own use, thank you for answering! It will be my first bible, and was wondering which you would recommend me buying for reading cover to cover.@@markwardonwords
I've got one of the "1611" KJVs that is actually a facsimile of a 1833 re-setting. I also have a KJV Clarion, and like it for the reason a lot of people hate it - because it's a paragraph bible. It even has The Translators to the Reader. Also, I dig the Treveris myself though unlike you I'm more into 2-column paragraph bibles. People in the comments mention the Canterbury - for people on a smaller budget, the Nelson Sovereign is a fair alternative, which I nicknamed the "Canterbury Killer" because it looks so similar to the Canterbury and is cheaper. It too is a 2K typeset. (I differ with you on the red-letter thing for exactly the reason you specified.)
My Treveris is number one with me also. I am considering buying the Notetaker's Bible from the KJV Store though, so that when preaching at a KJV only Church, I can have archaic words, false friends, translated meanings of names, along with my personal notes, written in the very wide margins.
The Schuyler Treveris KJV is indeed a fine quality edition. Schuyler is awesome. That said, I'm with you on the red ornamental drop caps: they look too garish to me as well. It's also one of the reasons why I go back and forth about the Schuyler Treveris ESV (along with: Isaiah 12 having an "O" drop cap rather than a "Y" drop cap; the Oxford hollow mismeasurement; the Jerusalem cross not centered on the full yap edition; the Lyon typeface is good but not great). I do like that the poetic lines are left-justified in the Treveris rather than alternating. And in fairness, I presume Schuyler is going for a more vintage look and their design choices are more in line with this old world aesthetic, which a lot of people do seem to like.
Kudos for being straight to the point and up front about where these came from. I really agree with verse by verse being a bad thing. The verses and chapters are a convenience that came later, they are not part of the canon, so we shouldn't emphasize them. They are just for reference. But sure, there can be use cases for it, like finding a specific verse quickly. Would it be irreverent to print a Bible in comic sans?
That 1611 version looks quite cool, but I would get tired of trying to read the archaic letters. Personally, as much as I appreciate the KJV as I grew up with it, I'm too far removed from it to go back to it as a regular read. I've got the ESV, the EHV, and the NKJV for that (and on RARE occasion, the NIV, although that one isn't my favorite).
I would love to have a dream English Bible....The Westminster Notes and References, beside the Clarion Edition layout and font, with Dr. Waite's defined words (except much less "intrusive" to the eyes - like add it to the marginal notes - certainly I would welcome a KJV Edition that would define "false friends" and more). I do agree with you that the Defined KJB is visually atrocious BUT it serves a good purpose and I would hope for it to be beautified (not holding my breath, though) or that perhaps some publisher would take up its main thesis (defining specialized/unique/archaic/plus "false friends" words in the KJB). FWIW, I do have Hendrickson's KJV 1611 reprint (the Gothic font reprint one) and it is fascinating to read it and to examine it. I have the Penguin Classic of Dr. Norton's KJV Edition and I like that the poetic sections stick out. I don't know why I can't seem to get into the paragraph format (maybe I am just not used to it) but I like the paragraph-single column format because it aids with the breaking down passages (and/or narrative pericopes). Having said that, I would love to have a dream Study Bible....the MT in one column (OKAY, it will have to be in column format for me - sorry, Dr. Ward.), an interlinear and the KJV-OT, the same with the NT - the TR in one column, then an interlinear, then the KJV-NT text. All that with a hardback edition and a leather bound edition. (And, yes, it would have to be Scrivener's TR - 😉). Maybe something like a "Triaphala." Well, any way. I remain in the KJVO camp and will always be there, but I do appreciate your point of view. Thank you for highlighting some wonderful KJV editions. Be well.
I have a Newberry KJV, The Reformation Heritage KJV Study Bible, Nelson Bonded Leather KJV 2nd, TBS Windsor Text Bible and Westminster Reference Bible, and the Thompson Chain KJV. Also, the Matthew Henry.
Those are definitely some nice choices, but the small print doesn’t work for me anymore. After looking at several editions by various publishers, I opted for the Cambridge turquoise. It is two column with nice large print that’s easy to read. I also have a Thomas Nelson large print reference Bible with a leathersoft cover. It’s pretty good for a budget Bible-although, it does have some ghosting.
The Defined KJV is one I purchased at a King's Kids Conference in about 2000.( I now wish I hadn't parted with it)! While useful for helping understand the AV, I completely agree with your assessment of that edition. The KJ21, Strong's Reference Binle, and the KJVER have become my go-to for preaching in the functionally-KJVO IFB-lite churches in my region. Thanks for this great review!
Another helpful video! Do you have a favorite for preaching/teaching? The Treveris is beautiful, but trying to find your verse number would be frustrating. I tend to have favorite Bibles based upon my location (recliner, bed, pulpit, desk).
I would really love to go Treveris for preaching, but it's true: it doesn't work with our current preaching customs. I like the ESV Heirloom and Heritage settings. I want single-column, paragraphed text, even in the pulpit.
Mr Ward, I'm a new subscriber. After watching your short discussion with Sean McDowell, I wanted to speak with you. For many years, I have been harboring what may be a petty translation objection, but I would welcome your advice. I am speaking of scripture verses like John 1:12, Hosea 1:10, and a number of others, where new translations say "children of God" rather than "Sons of God" or "Sons of the Living God." I have objected to the more general translation which seems aimed at what I believe is modern "Inclusion." I have thought that it robs the verses of what I believed to be an intent to show inheritance, succession, an almost legal kind of relationship--real closeness and Family--not that of a simple child/parent or sibling relationship. I do not want to be petty as I teach adult bible study, and would appreciate having your wisdom on this. Thank you most kindly for your time. I will be watching many more of your videos, and may God Bless You for your work.
It might be worth considering that the KJV does this, too... Gal. 3.26 KJV: For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. Gal. 3.26 RSV: for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. Gal. 3.26 NKJV: For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. Eph. 1.5a KJV: having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ Eph. 1.5a RSV: He destined us in love to be his sons through Jesus Christ Eph. 1.5a NKJV: having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ
Gregg asks a good question, and M.A. makes a good point: there's a long history to using "children" instead of "sons." The feminists didn't start it. ;) In fact, the KJV translates the Hebrew word for "sons" as "children" 31% of the time; it translates the word for "sons" as "sons" 60% of the time. It gets even more complex than that-believe it or not, the KJV translates the Hebrew word for "sons" as "men" 14 times! You ask good questions. I'd encourage you to maintain a position of basic trust that Christian scholars tried their best to translate accurately. Don't be too suspicious. ;) But do ask questions!
I prefer sons because that is LITERALLY whst Paul is addressing in there being no male or female in Christ. We all have inheritance as sons. Christ the firstborn, and us all as younger sons with half the portion each of the firstborn, figuratively. :)
If one actually reads that 1611, they'd be surprised how quickly one learns to easily read that gothic type. I have that 1611 1st. Edition (#4)...there's just something about it that makes reading it so special- Between the ornate beauty of it, and the fact that you have to read a tad slower and concentrate a little harder (Due to the gothic type) it just seems like it's more formal and reverential; and you actually seem to get more out of it.
The speaker shares his top 5 recommendations for King James Version (KJV) Bibles, highlighting their features and suitability for different purposes, while also mentioning some honorable and dishonorable mentions. Key moments: 00:00 The speaker shares their top five additions of the King James Version Bible, expressing love for the version and highlighting specific features of each addition. -The speaker emphasizes their admiration for the King James Version and clarifies that criticism does not equate to hatred. -A detailed review of the Thomas Nelson KJV personal size large print reference Bible, focusing on its design and layout. -Discussion on a 1611 reprint of the King James Version, highlighting its historical significance and usefulness for video presentations. 05:04 The video discusses different editions of the King James Bible, highlighting the Cambridge Clarion and the new Cambridge paragraph Bible for their typography, layout, and textual accuracy. -The Cambridge Clarion and the new Cambridge paragraph Bible are praised for their beautiful typography and layout, making them ideal choices for Bible readers. -The new Cambridge paragraph Bible stands out for its textual accuracy due to David Norton's meticulous work in correcting printer errors and aligning it with the original 1611 version. -The TBS Westminster Edition, though high quality, is critiqued for its layout with double columns and paragraph symbols, which may hinder readability for some users. 10:08 The TBS Westminster Reference Bible makes efforts to explain archaic words in the King James Bible, though it's hit or miss with some words. It stands out for its clarity compared to other editions. -The TBS Westminster Reference Bible clarifies archaic words like 'fray' to 'frighten', making it more understandable than other King James editions. -The compact size and unique layout of the TBS Westminster Reference Bible make it a practical choice for those needing a portable King James version. -The Defined King James Bible, while helpful in defining unfamiliar words, is criticized for its unattractive design and typography, lacking in aesthetic appeal. 15:11 The speaker recommends the Skyler Travaris as the top choice for a King James Bible due to its design and features, despite some criticisms about the drop caps. The Bible's single column, paragraphed layout, and red text for Jesus' words are highlighted as beneficial for reading and teaching. -Comparison with other editions like the Cambridge Clarion and the new Cambridge paragraph Bible, as well as the Thomas Nelson red edition, is discussed. The Travaris is praised for its minimalist design and clear verse numbering in the margins. -The speaker appreciates the Travaris' layout for poetry, noting the clear line matching and lack of ghosting. However, there is a critique about the drop caps being too bold and distracting, suggesting a more elegant approach. -The use of red text for Jesus' words is mentioned as a helpful typographical convention, aiding in quickly identifying His speech. The speaker also addresses the misconception of treating red letters as more divine. Generated by sider.ai
“Great review!”😃👍 I absolutely love the definitions and layout of The Defined King James Bible. There’s something about the font and word spacing that truly agrees with my eyes. It’s a delightful reading experience that I highly recommend.” ✝️👍
I love the look of your top pick. It gives out the kind of ancient but relevant vibes that I adore about Christmas music. If my home weren’t already swimming in copies of the KJV, I would want it to impress upon my kids the beauty and grandeur of this piece of English literature. I agree with you on the misleading use of chapter breaks for the drop caps. It would be more helpful to have every original break highlighted that way and only those (i.e., not honoring the many terrible splits we have to endure). I grew up using a simple edition with only the translators and chapters-and-verse designators between me and the originals. Ever since, I’ve been wary of the doctrinal presuppositions of many of the headings I’ve seen and prefer to find the themes for myself. I’ve never owned a single column KJV. I didn’t even know they existed! Thanks so much for sharing your love of quality books with us.
Mark, I agree with you about the Cambridge Clarion, but I'm surprised you didn't mention the Cambridge Concord or Humble Lamb KJV Lion - both are excellent KJV editions.
The Concord gets credit for including the original translators' notes and the preface. But Mark Ward makes a good point in the video: if you must use the verse-by-verse format, at least find a better way to mark the start of a new paragraph than a pilcrow.
I had hoped you’d have the Schuyler Treveris as your number one, Mark! It is my favourite KJV bible for hand size and text block. I am in mine currently every day even though the ESV is my main translation the last couple years. The Treveris is a pretty bible, especially mine which is Firebrick Red with blue under silver, and the drop caps I barely notice while reading. Schuyler red letter is good and dark, too.
Not just because they ghosted me… All the Humble Lamb Bibles I've seen have been gaudy-gaudy exteriors, gaudy interiors, even gaudy text block edges. =|
The KJV Lion does define the archaic words in the footnotes, which is great. I like the look of the purple edition, but not so much the yellow and pink editions. My only two aesthetic gripes with it are the title "The Word of God" on the spine (which feels too pretentious and self-important on the publisher's part, unlike the classic, understated "Holy Bible") and the hideous lion artwork on the page edges (unless you order an edition with purple under the gilt instead). I disagree with Mark Ward on the interiors: that's exactly the right kind of "gaudy" for the King James Version, as you can see from the 1611 edition facsimile he showed in the video.
Thanks, Mark. I don't use the KJV enough to have a large personal investment of nice KJV Bibles, but not long ago I had to research what would be the best NASB '95 Bible for my preaching ministry. The one I landed on is very much like the Treveris, which was the Large Print Wide Margin, from Steadfast Bibles. The one and only thing that I don't like about it is that it is not red letter, which I prefer. If you haven't seen this NASB, you might be very happy with it, being that you like the Treveris so much. - Smiles
Very interesting choices, & very informative. I always appreciate, learn from, and enjoy your videos, and have great respect for your teaching. (And I must get a teensy Bible!) I have to respond to your critique of the Schuyler. Like your friend, I love me some drop caps, and aside from my "gaudy" taste (no offense taken!), they do actually help me navigate quickly to my destination when frantically looking for a verse the rest of the class is already discussing. Also, I rather like 2-column pages because it is sometimes hard to follow a long line of text without the eye slipping to the next line, or the one before. Not a biggy, but I think I would find the verse numbers off to the left an irritation in Sunday School. Since I'm writing anyway: I'm not a KJV onlyist, just an ardent admirer, but I do prefer the beauty and poetry of the KJV language over even the best modern translations. I happily use the REB, NSRVue, CSB, ESV, NLT, etc, also (I am both a bibliophile and a Bible-phile), and I have no issue with anyone choosing modern translations. However, I find it irritating to keep hearing that people should not try to read the KJV because it's too hard. I take your point about les faux amis in EME; however, I never had a problem learning full definitions or distinguishing between old and current usage. We used KJV, ASV, RSV, AAT, etc, in our house, and any translation we pleased in our church), but I still somehow imbibed enough EME to fearlessly read without issue from an early age and without special instruction (TBH, I am sure I asked a lot of questions, I just don't remember that stage). Any good reader and native English speaker educated in American public schools should be able to read and understand EME, considering: Most have to study 2 years of foreign languages to graduate high school; while English has both grown and streamlined in the past 400 years, EME is far more similar to modern English than the German, Spanish, Latin, Mandarin, and programming languages I studied. We started Shakespeare in 6th grade, and got hit with him again every year through graduation, so I would expect most 18YO Americans would have learned some EME whether they read the Bible or not. High school seniors in my day had to learn to read Beowulf in OE and Chaucer in ME, beside which EME is a snap. If anyone cannot read EME even after 1 term of OE Beowulf and ME Chaucer, 2+ years of foreign language, 7+ terms of EME Shakespeare, and 13+ years of English classes, the educational system has gotten even worse than I thought. Finally, quite apart from the Geneva and KJV, some of the best literature ever written was in older English forms. Must we either update or abandon Sterne, Marlowe, Bacon, Chaucer, Bede, Pepys, and Shakespeare along with the KJV? The world will be so poor if we spurn the masterpieces of our past because they are "too hard to read."
Great comment. I won't comment on the many areas of agreement… I'll mention only that, of course, if no one were insisting on the exclusive use of the KJV *as a Bible doctrine* and therefore laying it on the consciences of others, my channel would be very different. It would be far less popular, too, I think. What I'm pushing against is KJV-Onlyism, not the use of the KJV as such. I use the KJV constantly in Bible study. I am also, however, pushing back against the use of the KJV in institutional settings, especially pulpits. And there you might disagree with me. But I do it because of 1 Cor 14 and a) its teaching that edification requires intelligibility and b) its emphasis on having service elements be accessible to the uninitiated. I dare say I'm a pretty good reader like you, and that I have been for decades. And yet yesterday, yet again, someone brought to my attention a KJV phrase I'd been misunderstanding without realizing it. Wanna test yourself on it? Don't look it up: "Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would inquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him." Where's the faux amis? If even you and I get tripped up by these things, we should not put any pressure on the uninitiated-and the poor reader-to use the KJV.
@@markwardonwords Thank you so much for your reply, and I do understand your mission to get people to read versions they can best understand. I really appreciate your quest and the way you approach it. I simply get irritated by the words "too hard" I see repeatedly (not from you) because of thee, thou, ye, etc, none of which are even a little bit hard. It reminds me of my aggravation with a childhood friend who judged whether or not a book was too hard by how thick it was. (Rather to my shock, she grew to be a surgeon.) She wouldn't touch a book more than 1/2"" thick, at least up to 12 years old. Regarding your test passage, I have to admit that I had to read it twice to notice the false friend (I think) just because that particular sentence is such a tangle of words to start with. I'm guessing you refer to "or", which I would interpret as "in order if and when" -- am I right? Because of my taste for 17th through 19th century English authors, I am not apparently aware that certain words have fallen out of use or become archaic. They're still alive, with their full historical and current meanings, in my daily reading! 🙂 BTW, you have mentioned growing up in Northern Virginia. I grew up in Arlington, myself, though I would guess 25+ years ahead of you. Always so glad to encounter another Northern Virginian, even though I've been less happily in Central Virginia the last 54 years. I had a wonderful childhood there, and a very good education; I'll always be grateful that I was born and spent my childhood there. I have always likewise been grateful for the churches we attended there. I was truly hurt to find that the church we attended with my grandparents and great aunt when I was very young has a new building and name, and little or no continuity from the 120 preceding years other than the location. Then I was devastated when I discovered just last month that the wonderful little neighborhood church we attended after that, the one where I was baptized, has just closed for good this summer. Far too many shuttered churches lately!
@@f.k.e.parsons2113 Yes, I was born in Alexandria! "Or ever" in 1611 meant "before." The OED says that this use is "Now rare (British regional and poetic)."
I only have 1 KJV bible, the TBS Westminster. I don't mind the double column, and as someone who doesn't have a lot of experience reading the KJV I like that it notes a lot of words that have changed - even if not all of them. But I don't mind that, as that's where your videos and my pen come in handy!
Great guys put it together. I love Beeke and Barrett. I've interviewed Beeke, a precious brother; and I've interviewed Barrett-super gifted guy. I don't agree with Beeke's "Practical Reasons" for retaining the KJV. But I still have immense respect for that great man. Oh: you want to know what I think of the edition! I think the actual typography of the Scripture portions-the typeface and layout, especially the latter-is unfortunate. I just don't see why tradition has to beat readability here. Double columns I can live with, but every-verse-a-paragraph-I don't want to be doctrinaire, but I'd be happy to n ever see that again. If you're going to go verse-by-verse, at least group the verses into paragraphs the way the Thomas Nelson KJV I'm holding in the thumbnail does.
@@markwardonwords What about the study notes? how does it hold up to the false friends? I haven't been able to go through it much but I saw what you said about the defined KJV and I wanted to know what you thought of the study bible
@@nour7anna I confess ignorance on this point. I'd really love to know. I have never heard anyone mention that it footnotes archaic English. But I would LOVE to be able to recommend it. I need to get hold of a copy…
@@markwardonwords it does! I would love to see your review! Looking quickly at 2 Tim. 2 the notes say: 2:15 Timothy must be diligent in his labors so as not to be ashamed because of any impurity or disorderliness. Rightly dividing the word of truth is imagery taken from either the temple priests who had to divide the sacrificial animals according to the Mosaic precepts or from a steward of a household, called to divide the food and allocate to every member of the household his fitting portion. 2:16-18 vain babblings. Empty words that have no spiritual content though proclaimed loudly, and serve no other purpose than to cause confusion, leading unstable people away from the faith, canker. Gangrene, a devastating infection unless it is thoroughly rooted out. 2:19-21 sure. Firm. meet. Suitable. So it gives some notes just like a study bible. But it also defines individual words. I’d love to hear your take in a more in depth video
1 kings 18 18:21 How long halt ye between two opinions? The Hebrew could be either "how long do you limp on two wooden crutches?" or "how long do you limp on two divided (thoughts)?" Either way they were unstable and uncommitted.
I grew up using KJV, but have since switched to NASB and the updated Berkley Version, Modern Language Bible. I really really wish bibles had better footnotes. This is one reason I read the Berkley Version. It has the best foot notes that I have seen in a bible, but more would be even better. I don't use references ever, but I sure enjoy the footnotes. I don't understand why there are not more in the bibles.
Catholic Bibles tend to have standard footnotes that offer commentary on the text. The KJV was barred from containing such footnotes because the notes in the Geneva Bible were controversial. Since then, most Protestant Bibles have not come with extensive notes in their standard editions. One notable exception is the NET Bible.
I see your reasoning. But for my own purposes, I prefer double columns. This makes it much easier to bookmark your place, and find it again. ............ It would be good, though, for me to have a KJV with annotations right in the text, as the Amplified Bible does. Especially if it were a Thompson Chain-Reference! ............ Jesus Christ is Lord! :--}> P.S. I see in this video, that the KJV 1611 used the long "s", for internal letter "ess's". This would be a "False Friend", to those who take it to be an "f".
I’d love a polyglot* printed using the easiest to read modern font. It must include include introductions, maps etc, plus any & all marginal/footnotes just as they came from the printer *1611, 1769, most recent update, & NKJ
The original KJV 1611 edition was originally published in both a gothic, and a roman type text. The text varied depending on the size of the edition. The smaller editions had the Roman font.
@markwardonwords I think he is referring to the original order, I'm not sure all were released in 1611, Tim Berg would likely know, but if I recall correctly there were two sizes ordered. But, why would you want the Roman type face? If I ever get a replica of the 1611, I would want the Gothic typeface, it takes a little getting used to, perhaps, but it is magnificent.
Please keep doing these Bible review/recommendation videos! I hopped on the nerdy Bible bandwagon a while ago, and I hope to add to my collection as I’m able.
Pretty Bibles & great video! I must have 15 physical Bibles in different translations, and some I don’t want to mess up by reading - love that we have Logos! My oldest KJV is a Cambridge I was gifted to use in theology classes. It is very old/fancy & there’s no translation indicator on the spine.😂 Back then, I wrote all kinds of notes in it. SMH at myself now. 😮
The original 1611 KJV had chapter headings. For instance, here are the headings for Genesis 1-3 (with the original spelling, courtesy of King James Bible Online). CHAP. I. 1 The creation of Heauen and Earth, 3 of the light, 6 of the firmament, 9 of the earth separated from the waters, 11 and made fruitfull, 14 of the Sunne, Moone, and Starres, 20 of fish and fowle, 24 of beasts and cattell, 26 of Man in the Image of God. 29 Also the appointment of food. CHAP. II. 1 The first Sabbath. 4 The maner of the creation. 8 The planting of the garden of Eden, 10 and the riuer thereof. 17 The tree of knowledge onely forbidden. 19. 20 The naming of the creatures. 21 The making of woman, and institution of Mariage. CHAP. III. 1 The serpent deceiueth Eue. 6 Mans shamefull fall. 9 God arraigneth them. 14 The serpent is cursed. 15 The promised Seed. 16 The punishment of Mankind. 21 Their first clothing. 22 Their casting out of Paradise.
@@davidchilds9590Do you think that editors are trying to trick you into think it's scripture? So you also get mad at tables of contents? Cross references? Footnotes? Marginal notes? VERY early bibles had marginal markings.
@@markwardonwords In my experience, a lot of readers do NOT know they are not original. In many cases, they are only one way of analysing the text and other divisions would be equally valid, but the heading 'guide' the reader in a particular (and not necessarily scriptural) way.
I really enjoyed this video but I’ve noticed a lot of Americans see words as false friends which in northern England are not archaic but used regularly. It was not uncommon in Yorkshire to hear people using thee’s and thou’s in conversation in the late 20th century.
Wow! Cool! Can you give me what you'd take to be a direct quote for the word "halt"? And do you have any other examples? And I was aware that "thee" and "thou" are still used in Yorkshire, but are they used the same way as they're used in the KJV?
@@markwardonwordsI'm American and was confused by you thinking halt is a false friend. The phrase "halting speech" or "halting step" is still very much in use. Aside from which, the Hebrew can mean "to stand firm" as well as to "stand still." Hesitate isn't even a good translation, though it's in the meaning the KJV authors used. When God pesach'd over the Isrealites so the Angel of Death did not enter, he most certainly did not hesitate! And no it does NOT mean to hop or leap. It's a mistranslation that slides in because of a rabbinical interpretation being stuck in the LXX, where a meaning from Song of Solomon was stuck into the Exodus narrative because they are both being read messianically--the beloved bounding over the hills is transferred into the Passover. Jerome picked it up from the LXX because he didn't know the meaning, and it got into the KJV that way. So now we are calling it the Passover when that isn't at all the literal meaning of the word.... It's not the worst error. But it's annoying.
Someone get this man a Longprimer! 😉
NEVER!!! lol
@@timwildsmith i was looking for this comment 53 longprimer 🐐 of kjvs by far
Awesome video! Thanks for the shoutout! I've paused the video before you revealed the #1 spot to make a guess - Treveris. I agree 100% with your choices.
Wow! I'm really honored, Randy! Thank you! I don't really live in the Bible reviews space. I appreciate your work and that of Tim Wildsmith and Tim Nickels, but I'm pretty happy with what I have and I don't see myself trying to move into your territory. ;) But when I do, it's good to know my judgment doesn't fail!
Yay, I got it! Also, I'm jealous of that color. I'll have to get one now. lol
@@markwardonwords thank you!! I know of a Bible coming out next year that I think you're going to like. ;-)
@@markwardonwords have you seen the TN Large Print Paragraph-Style? I highly recommend that one.
Someone surely commented on this earlier, but as a preacher I NEED the verse-by-verse format. When I stand in the pulpit with a paragraphed Bible the verse under consideration tends to get lost. But even in some verse-by-verse Bibles the verse numbers are so small that they disappear.
I get that; good call. That just doesn't happen to me for some reason.
I actually prefer two column text. With my low vision, it is easier to track. My favorite KJV is teh Humble Lamb Lion. In the bottom footnotes, most of the "false friends" words are explained. In additions, cross references are also included in the footnotes. The Lion version's quality is exceptions. The goatskin leather is very supple, compliant and lies flat right out of the box.
Yes, there are some really nice touches in those Humble Lamb editions. And I recognize that some folks have different eyes (I'm told I'll get them soon!) and different preferences for double for single column!
Mark, I appreciate your graciousness toward KJ only-ists. I also admire your well-balanced treatment of the subject. You certainly cannot be legitimately accused of being unfair toward or anti KJ. As I mentioned in a previous comment, your ministry is vital for the church. Keep up the good work.
Thank you, brother!
I agree. Mark is not a major kjv reader he is respectful and fair.I personally prefer the nkjv but also use several critical text bibles. Love gods word Toni's husband
Yes the Red Nelson KJV is the best KJV edition available. It has good updates to older terms and corrects the translation in many instances. Also the papers is 36gsm and the red leather is so smooth and "spongy".
agreed
10:25 For the KJV, I don't mind pilcrows; 'tis a shame that the KJV printers ran out of those characters somewhere in Acts and didn't continue them through the rest of the New Testament.
I love that the NCPB places the text first and then adds the chapter numbers. This is most obvious in Acts 22 which continues the sentence from 21. This Bible prints it as one sentence and adds the chapter number within the paragraph. I think the margin would be even better, though.
The New Cambridge Paragraph is my favorite KJV due to the layout and the inclusion of quotation marks around speech. It's the easiest reading KJV I've encountered. Just wish it was on more opaque paper.
The NCPB is AWESOME!
New Cambridge Paragraph KJV has been my wish list for awhile
I have been reading some from the Matthew's Bible. I love it pre-dates the KJV and 2 Timothy 2:15 is translated. 15 Be diligent to show yourself laudable to God, a workman who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
(2 Timothy 2:15) Do your utmost to present yourself approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright.
For me an ideal edition of the KJV would probably be a combination of:
- Epistle Dedicatory;
- the Translators' To The Reader;
- double column;
- verse by verse layout;
- red letter (Cambridge style);
- self-pronunciation;
- top of page headings;
- with Apocrypha;
- elements of the TBS Classic Reference Bible (centre colomn and decluttering of the scriptures from superscript), but more exsorstive;
- elements of the TBS Westminster Reference Bible (chapter headings, word explanations, unit of measure and money conversions);
- availability in 1611 text and 1762 Cambridge text, but a nice roman type (Cambridge Cameo style);
- art guilding;
- available in a variety of high quality leathers and colours;
- a variety of beautiful coloured maps;
- a variety of beautiful coloured pictures; and
- concordance.
I have a KJV 1611 by A.J. HOLMAN CO. Have had it for about 48 years and love IT.
For me, it's the New Cambridge Paragraph Bible, no contest. It includes almost everything I would want--the Epistle Dedicatory, The Translators to the Reader, the Apocrypha, the original marginal notes--with a pleasant layout to boot. I just wish it had carried over the original cross-references, too, as some of them do double-duty as justifications for the translators' word choices. It also makes no effort to indicate the translators' supplied words, and while I don't care for italics, there has to be _something_ they could use that won't be too distracting.
The Clarion is a strong runner-up, as it includes three of the four things I listed above, but it's missing the Apocrypha. It's not really a complete KJV without those books. The Westminster Reference Bible again contains three of the four items I want in a KJV, but it looks hideous. That's unfortunate, as it includes two major things that are missing from both the NCPB and the Clarion: the original 1611 chapter headers and a set of marginal notes giving modern synonyms for archaic words. If I could get the WRB's marginal apparatus in the Clarion format with the Apocrypha included, I would probably be content.
An honorable mention for me would be the Matthew Henry Study Bible from Hendrickson. It uses the Scrivener Cambridge Paragraph Bible as its base, so it includes the 1611 translator notes and presents the text in a highly-readable format. It's missing some other things that I would want, but it's better than nothing. This same text is used in their KJV edition of the Fire Bible, so that's a fair option for Charismatics. I feel like badgering Hendrickson to release the entirety of the 1873 Cambridge Paragraph Bible, including the introductory content and the Apocrypha, but I don't have much confidence that they'd listen.
The most intelligent commenter on any UA-cam channel of which I’m aware! Excellent as always.
Have you tried a Ruckman reference Bible? He keeps in the Original 1611 Header's, and I believe the marginal notes (though I cannot confirm that yet, until I get my own). But Ruckman understands the importance of every single one of those references and marginal notes are important
@@captainkrajick In the edition of the Ruckman Reference Bible that I just checked, the headers were not the 1611 headers. Perhaps they were taken from some edition of the KJV, or maybe they were in some way inspired by the original headers, but they are definitely different.
@@MAMoreno I see, good to know. Thanks for letting me know
@18:50 1: what is a perickapy? (not sure how to spell it) I have never heard that word before.
2: I completely disagree with you about the drop caps I think they look very nice and eligant. You asked why they have them in one and not in another, obviously they have them at the beginning of each chapter. Also the chapters have to be set apart, otherwise how would you be able to find a given chapter in a reasonable amount of time?
1. A pericope is "an extract from a text, especially a passage from the Bible." Good reminder-I should have defined that word. I like headings above my pericopes.
2. It's ok! We can still be friends! But I really do disagree. I wonder what people better trained than I in typography would think about the drop caps if we did a poll. On chapters, though, I've seen them marked off in this format in subtle and still helpful ways. I've seen "2:1" in the margin, or "2" in a bigger font and "1" in a smaller one. There are strategies!
It's like a stand alone passage. The Samaritan woman at the well is a pericope.
I would enjoy if you did this for other versions. My favorite KJV is the Schuyler Canterbury.
I love my Canterbury
I'll have to give this some thought!
Excellent. You know you’re going to have to do this with your other favorite translations now, right?
Ooh. That would take some work with publishers!
The Define KJV version you have is my most favorite. Can I have it instead? I received one circa 2005 but I gave it to one of my closest friends I met. Now I can't find any version available similar to that here in my country.
My friend, what country are you in?
@@markwardonwords I'm from Philippines. Premium KJV Bible is scarce here and cant find similar you shown here and from previous videos to any christian bookstore. It might just be me 🤔
Hello, dr. Ward. I have noticed a couple of times, that you seem to prefer single-column layout. Do you find it easier to read, or is there some other reason?
I personally find wide columns to be obnoxious and more tiresome to read, and don't see how anyone could prefer them. Many "reader" editions also tend to have light/faded font, which makes the wide/chunky columns even worse.
That red KJV was beautiful, though🙂
I find single-column layouts to be the most like a regular book, and my eyes can scan the page best in that format. But to each his own!
@@markwardonwords Thanks for the feedback. Of course, we all have different preferences, so to each his own
I really appreciate your videos, especially on KJVO, as that phenomenon has spread to non-english countries. The arguments against KJVO works just as well in other languages🙂
I have asked this on other UA-cam videos, perhaps even on your channel, not sure, but do you know what text edition of the KJV is used by Nelson? I mean obviously not the 1611, but is it the Blayney revision of 1769? Also, i have that 1611 edition by the Bible museum, awesome to have and i do use it in my studies. I also have the small Hendrickson 1611 in genuine leather. It seems to be pretty much the same, only in Roman type rather than Gothic. Are you aware of any difference that would make it not a true 1611? Other than the print? I mean the content seems to be the same in my limited comparison. Thanks and God bless 🙏
The Nelson one is beautiful but I agree. Single Column paragraph is my favorite.
Cambridge Clarion is my favorite, with a close second being the New Cambridge Paragraph Bible.
✔ All good ones!
I just got the red Thomas Nelson a couple of weeks ago. I like it quite a bit, although I could nitpick and mention some differences in the layout that I would prefer. I do like that they also have the old English words at the bottom of the page; and they do have some false friends notated like 2 Timothy “study” and 1 kings “halt.”
Really? I missed this! I can't believe it! Will check!
I was using it for my daily reading it last night, and ran across another instance of “study” in 1 Thessalonians 4:11, “ye study to be quiet.” And the foot notes indicate that this instance of study means to aspire.
I’m a fan of the double column just because that’s what I grew up reading
Hey Mark, i was reading my kjv yesterday and run across Exodus 22:28.
It says do not revile the gods. Am i right to think this is a translation error.
Should it read God instead of the Gods.
Nkjv translates God.
Thank you
This is a great question. It's also an ancient disagreement. The LXX and Vulgate go with something like "gods," like the KJV. I'm hesitant to say that what the LXX and the Vulgate and the KJV all chose is wrong. But modern translations have definitely voted against those venerable translations in this place.
@@markwardonwords thank you for your response.
If we could only get into the heads of those translator's😂
I'd love a proper 1611 repro. I only managed like you to get the Roman typeface version when I ordered 400th anniversary 'repro'
I would love recommendations for a parallel KJV + LXX/TR or MT/TR, if such a thing exists! I'd also settle for just the New Testament. I want something I can discreetly take to church. I use my phone for this purpose currently but I would rather avoid that. I found one New Testament from the 19th century (British and Foreign Bible Society). It looks quite nice on Google Books -- it's even paragraphed! -- but using an antique is hardly discreet! I wonder how big it is. The other two I found from the 2010s look to be rather hard on the eye.
I wish there were more paragraph editions.
YOOOOOOOO the first Bible you showed was the same Bible I used daily and take everywhere. Because of the footnotes, which do clarify the false friends and archaic words, it's easy to use when studying with other people, although I carry around several thinlines of other translations for the purpose of studying with others.
Some of the things you don't like about it are things I don't either, however the paragraph headings separate the paragraphs, since everything is laid out verse by verse.
This Bible replaced the KJV single column paragraph Bible that Thomas Nelson released years ago, which has everything in a nice paragraph format and includes footnotes derived from the Cambridge Paragraph Bible. The poetry formatting is from the Cambridge Paragraph Bible of 1873, which is why initially I didn't like the formatting of the single column one you mention in this video, but like I said the paragraph headings helped me get over that issue.
Just an FYI, but Scofield put out a translation that really was helpful in modernizing the difficult words
Meh
Scofield taught that there were 4 different Gospels..and I don’t mean Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. He taught many false and confusing doctrines that have had a horrible long lasting impact on the western Christian church. I was one of those who God had to reeducate after years of being taught by people who believed his teachings.
Wow, Mark, I was shocked to see your youtube title so I had to watch the whole presentation. Interesting to hear your critique on this. Your dishonorable mention is the Bible I have been using for the past 12 years. It's getting close to falling apart, so I will be getting a study Bible next, which I hope I won't wear out like that past four Bibles, of which 3 of them I still have on my Bible shelf.
I suppose it depends on what you grew up with and how good your eyes are. My mind and eyes are locked into the double column format with the verse numbers stuck to each verse. The Defined Bible has no basic study notes in which I prefer fundamental Bible references in a historicist perspective. I like the plain text with no distractions because I feel I need to depend on the Holy Spirit to teach me first and foremost and if I still don't understand, ask Jesus to show me spiritual scholarship that would point me in the right direction. I have the same thoughts of the Defined Bible that the cover heading looks weird and the lack of chapter headings and subtitles really hurts because they would have made it so much easier to find areas of interest in the Bible.
The Thomas Nelson Sovereign edition KJV is like the poor man's Schuyler Canterbury KJV, and has the advantage of notes that define obscurities. The Leathersoft edition could have fooled me into believing it was genuine leather, but you can get a genuine leather version of it. Their KJV Paragraph-style Large Print Thinline Bible has things laid out in proper paragraphs, and has all the features of the Sovereign, but the cover is not as well done. Unfortunately neither includes the Apocrypha, nor the original KJV notes, which I think are often interesting and insightful.
My ideal KJV (short of one that lightly revised the obscurities of the text) would be something like the Cambridge New Paragraph, but with section headers, and definitions of obscure words and phrases in the margin. One other problem with the Cambridge New Paragraph is that it is only available in 8 point font, and that is a bit too small for me at my age, though it is still readable. I would prefer something in a 10 point font or above.
Thomas Nelson does have one edition of the KJV with the Apocrypha, but they kinda blundered it. (And they included a translation of 3 Maccabees that seemed to have materialized out of nowhere--the KJV committee never translated that book!)
@@MAMoreno I'm glad they made a first attempt, but they also had no notes or cross references, and some typos. I hope they try it again, and fix the problems.
Is clarion still your favorite? I’m on the verge of buying a new bible and wanted to ask. I’m not looking to get kjv though, just single column.
Yes!
Hurrah for the Treveris, my personal favorite. The marginal verse numbers are particularly suited to the KJV which starts every verse with a capital letter.
Right!
Wow. Gotta check this out.. Traveris. Exquisite!
When is the “Mark Ward KJV False Friends Reference Bible” going to be released?
That would actually be fantastic!
@@kirbysmith4135 I’d buy it. It was a “kidding, not really kidding” type of comment.
@@missinglink_eth I hear you. And I would buy it too.
I had some discussions this year at ETS that may one day turn into the MWKJVFFRB. ;)
@@markwardonwords we will be waiting 😄
Just curious if you have ever done a review of a Ruckman Reference Bible or the common man’s reference bible? Not a fan of either one but would love to see a review from you on those.
I have not. I don’t have access to them!
For me, the combination of The New Cambridge Paragraph Bible and the Schuyler Treveris would be the best Bible layout. That is, I would take the Cambridge layout as is, just put all chapter and verse numbers in the margin as in the Treveris, but without drop caps to indicate the beginning of each chapter. Also, no line spaces between chapters.
I am often jealous of my English speaking brothers and sisters for the wealth of choice between excellent English translations and numerous editions they come in. There are a number of translations in my language (Croatian), but mostly Roman Catholic from many decades ago, and some newer Protestant based on MT/TR, with one NLT-like modern one. And every one of those translations comes in only one text layout, though some come in two different layouts, depending on the size of the Bible. So, none on a LSB/ESV level of scholarship, consistency, and precision (let alone a choice of single column/two-column, paragraph/verse-by-verse, hard cover/leather). Someday, hopefully.
I've never seen it in person, only online, but the Humble Lamb KJV might be worth a mention?
I do like their dropcaps in the KJV Lion better than those in the Treveris. But overall I kinda see Humble Lamb as gaudy. =| They're doing a lot of things well, though, I will happily say.
One other thing I also find odd about the Defined King James Bible (which I do have a copy of and I'm willing to put up with its odd looking layouts because I want to find a King James Bible that defines the archaic words) is how it doesn't even separate the Old and New Testament books, it immediately goes straight from Malachi to Matthew.
Everything about the design and layout is amateurish. =(
I love the King James Version! I also read others as well, but I’m currently reading through the KJV.
You've found your first love. Don't lose it as so many others have.
Mark, would you ever sell your Schuyler Westminster Reference Bible? I would love the chance to own one.
I have the same edition of the KJV 1611 facsimile, which I got from the Museum of the Bible in Arizona (where my wife is from). What a fun visit! I look forward to going there again. Rumor has it, they possessed (for a short duration) a copy of Tyndale's 1526 NT (which they turned around and sold to either the British Library or British Museum for $2.2 million---I can't remember which).
Very cool!
Are you talking about the 1611 museum in Phoenix with brothers Howard and Gary??? I love what they are doing for The Word of God.
I am glad you showed your copy of 1611 KJV but I didn't believe it contains the Apocrypha until you open the pages then I saw a page from Baruch which from the Apocrypha that's interesting I wonder if the Anglican explain that it's not part of the Hebrew Bible but was included in the Septuagint if I'm not mistaken.
See Article 6 of the Articles of Religion for the Anglican view of the Apocrypha. (In short, they read it for moral lessons but not for doctrine.)
Right.Personally I prefer to read the Scriptures in the protestant Bible.I was a former Roman Catholic but after I got saved I'm now attending an independent Baptist.
@@joseenriqueagutaya131The Apocrypha has historically been included in "Protestant" Bibles but it classified as good to read, not Scripture. Which is actually the official view of the EO and Arminian Orthodox churches too....
Hey Mark, have you come across the "simplified KJV" by Barbour? I'm in South Africa and they have some really nice edition that my Wife loves. I have flicked through but haven't read through comprehensively. Any chance you've had oppurtunity to work through it yet? Trust you are well!
It's an update done by copyeditors, not Bible scholars, so it is essentially what it claims to be: the exact set of translation decisions made by the KJV committee, but in modern English. You could quibble over whether or not they did their job perfectly, but Peachtree Publishing Services was not trying to make a new translation (or even "make a good one better") when they edited the Simplified KJV.
@@MAMoreno interesting! Yes I noticed they stated it on the slip cover in the shop. Do you have any idea what they decided to do with the “false friends” that Mark identifies? I really only had a minute or so to look, but I’m hoping to visit the store again soon to sit with it. Such an interesting project - albeit one that I will probably never use myself
@@sethtbaguley Their main goal was to update the "false friends" and other archaisms. If I were to nitpick their work, I'd say that they went a tad too far by updating "thou," especially since users of the KJV appreciate being able to see when "you" is singular, but I guess they thought that people would find "thou" strange in a sentence that uses modern verb endings: "Thou are."
If you want to read it at home online, try here: www.simplifiedkjv.com/read.html
I have the Traveris and I loved the single column and that the numbers are to the side.
Yes, it's a winner! I gave mine away… I'd like to get another one, but I can't justify the expense!
I highly recommend the Thomas Nelson KJV Reference Bible, Giant Print. It has book introductions and a HUGE number of references for making sense of the "weird" words. Looking at 2 Timothy 2:15, it mentions that "study" means "be diligent" and "shew" means "present". This edition has made me much more successful reading the KJV. In 1 Kings they mention "will you falter" for "halt".
Excellent.
Really enjoying your content Mark. I am wondering if you have made a video covering translations that make/don’t make the distinction between singular and plural “you” in Luke 22:31-32 that the KJV has the advantage with its archaic language?
Did you see my recent KJB Study Project videos? There are two. Check the first one. Or if you’ve asking if I’ve done more discussion than that, the answer is no. I may have beat that dead horse enough. ;)
ua-cam.com/video/q4nCu8K1qqM/v-deo.htmlsi=m_aYvN9NGnr7fLb1
KJVER “Translation”
One of the KJVs I have and use most (when I use it) is a large print, verse by verse 1980 edition published by "The Christian Bible Society" with words of Christ in red. One feature with this edition is when there are archaic or hard-to-understand words, they are underlined and then an easier word is placed in the space between the verses. For Zechariah 1:21 the “easier” word for fary is terrify; 2 Tim 2:15 is also unnoted as yours is and 1 Kings 18:21 halt is noted to mean ‘hesitate.’
as a first bible, would you recommend me buying the Thomas Nelson personal size large print bible or the Schuyler treveris?
For someone else, or for yourself? Tell me more!
For myself, as a first bible to read. thank you for answering!@@markwardonwords
Thank you for answeromg! It is for my own use, and my first bible to read thru from cover to cover.@@markwardonwords
For my own use, thank you for answering! It will be my first bible, and was wondering which you would recommend me buying for reading cover to cover.@@markwardonwords
I've got one of the "1611" KJVs that is actually a facsimile of a 1833 re-setting.
I also have a KJV Clarion, and like it for the reason a lot of people hate it - because it's a paragraph bible. It even has The Translators to the Reader.
Also, I dig the Treveris myself though unlike you I'm more into 2-column paragraph bibles. People in the comments mention the Canterbury - for people on a smaller budget, the Nelson Sovereign is a fair alternative, which I nicknamed the "Canterbury Killer" because it looks so similar to the Canterbury and is cheaper. It too is a 2K typeset.
(I differ with you on the red-letter thing for exactly the reason you specified.)
prices?
My Treveris is number one with me also.
I am considering buying the Notetaker's Bible from the KJV Store though,
so that when preaching at a KJV only Church, I can have archaic words, false friends,
translated meanings of names, along with my personal notes,
written in the very wide margins.
The Schuyler Treveris KJV is indeed a fine quality edition. Schuyler is awesome. That said, I'm with you on the red ornamental drop caps: they look too garish to me as well. It's also one of the reasons why I go back and forth about the Schuyler Treveris ESV (along with: Isaiah 12 having an "O" drop cap rather than a "Y" drop cap; the Oxford hollow mismeasurement; the Jerusalem cross not centered on the full yap edition; the Lyon typeface is good but not great). I do like that the poetic lines are left-justified in the Treveris rather than alternating. And in fairness, I presume Schuyler is going for a more vintage look and their design choices are more in line with this old world aesthetic, which a lot of people do seem to like.
Kudos for being straight to the point and up front about where these came from.
I really agree with verse by verse being a bad thing. The verses and chapters are a convenience that came later, they are not part of the canon, so we shouldn't emphasize them. They are just for reference. But sure, there can be use cases for it, like finding a specific verse quickly.
Would it be irreverent to print a Bible in comic sans?
Maybe, but there is actually a valid use case for it (it's a dyslexia-friendly font).
@@fnjesusfreak Good point. Is there even a good supply of dyslexia-friendly Bibles? I did a quick google search and I didn't find much.
@@midimusicforever I actually don't think so.
@@fnjesusfreak Something should be done about that. I almost feel tempted myself but it's totally not my field, so... Nah, I won't.
@@midimusicforever I, unfortunately, don't have the resources to do more than perhaps producing a low-grade New Testament via print-on-demand.
That 1611 KJV reprint looks 💯 compared to the KJV 1611 on display at the Bible Museum
That 1611 version looks quite cool, but I would get tired of trying to read the archaic letters. Personally, as much as I appreciate the KJV as I grew up with it, I'm too far removed from it to go back to it as a regular read. I've got the ESV, the EHV, and the NKJV for that (and on RARE occasion, the NIV, although that one isn't my favorite).
All good choices!
I would love to have a dream English Bible....The Westminster Notes and References, beside the Clarion Edition layout and font, with Dr. Waite's defined words (except much less "intrusive" to the eyes - like add it to the marginal notes - certainly I would welcome a KJV Edition that would define "false friends" and more). I do agree with you that the Defined KJB is visually atrocious BUT it serves a good purpose and I would hope for it to be beautified (not holding my breath, though) or that perhaps some publisher would take up its main thesis (defining specialized/unique/archaic/plus "false friends" words in the KJB). FWIW, I do have Hendrickson's KJV 1611 reprint (the Gothic font reprint one) and it is fascinating to read it and to examine it. I have the Penguin Classic of Dr. Norton's KJV Edition and I like that the poetic sections stick out. I don't know why I can't seem to get into the paragraph format (maybe I am just not used to it) but I like the paragraph-single column format because it aids with the breaking down passages (and/or narrative pericopes). Having said that, I would love to have a dream Study Bible....the MT in one column (OKAY, it will have to be in column format for me - sorry, Dr. Ward.), an interlinear and the KJV-OT, the same with the NT - the TR in one column, then an interlinear, then the KJV-NT text. All that with a hardback edition and a leather bound edition. (And, yes, it would have to be Scrivener's TR - 😉). Maybe something like a "Triaphala." Well, any way. I remain in the KJVO camp and will always be there, but I do appreciate your point of view. Thank you for highlighting some wonderful KJV editions. Be well.
I have a Newberry KJV, The Reformation Heritage KJV Study Bible, Nelson Bonded Leather KJV 2nd, TBS Windsor Text Bible and Westminster Reference Bible, and the Thompson Chain KJV. Also, the Matthew Henry.
Those are definitely some nice choices, but the small print doesn’t work for me anymore. After looking at several editions by various publishers, I opted for the Cambridge turquoise. It is two column with nice large print that’s easy to read. I also have a Thomas Nelson large print reference Bible with a leathersoft cover. It’s pretty good for a budget Bible-although, it does have some ghosting.
I get it: I'm being warned that I may soon need bifocals… I'm at that age!
The Defined KJV is one I purchased at a King's Kids Conference in about 2000.( I now wish I hadn't parted with it)! While useful for helping understand the AV, I completely agree with your assessment of that edition. The KJ21, Strong's Reference Binle, and the KJVER have become my go-to for preaching in the functionally-KJVO IFB-lite churches in my region. Thanks for this great review!
Excellent video Mark. I enjoy verse by verse and I do like red letter however, the red must be very dark and not brightened.
Yeah, a good point.
Where can I find a Traveris AKJV Bible? Hmmm?
Schuyler Bibles!
Another helpful video! Do you have a favorite for preaching/teaching? The Treveris is beautiful, but trying to find your verse number would be frustrating. I tend to have favorite Bibles based upon my location (recliner, bed, pulpit, desk).
I would really love to go Treveris for preaching, but it's true: it doesn't work with our current preaching customs. I like the ESV Heirloom and Heritage settings. I want single-column, paragraphed text, even in the pulpit.
Mr Ward, I'm a new subscriber. After watching your short discussion with Sean McDowell, I wanted to speak with you. For many years, I have been harboring what may be a petty translation objection, but I would welcome your advice. I am speaking of scripture verses like John 1:12, Hosea 1:10, and a number of others, where new translations say "children of God" rather than "Sons of God" or "Sons of the Living God." I have objected to the more general translation which seems aimed at what I believe is modern "Inclusion." I have thought that it robs the verses of what I believed to be an intent to show inheritance, succession, an almost legal kind of relationship--real closeness and Family--not that of a simple child/parent or sibling relationship. I do not want to be petty as I teach adult bible study, and would appreciate having your wisdom on this. Thank you most kindly for your time. I will be watching many more of your videos, and may God Bless You for your work.
It might be worth considering that the KJV does this, too...
Gal. 3.26 KJV: For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
Gal. 3.26 RSV: for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.
Gal. 3.26 NKJV: For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.
Eph. 1.5a KJV: having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ
Eph. 1.5a RSV: He destined us in love to be his sons through Jesus Christ
Eph. 1.5a NKJV: having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ
@@MAMoreno Thank you kindly, MAMoreno. I have always started with the KJV and used newer translations to amplify. I just hope I'm getting it right.
Gregg asks a good question, and M.A. makes a good point: there's a long history to using "children" instead of "sons." The feminists didn't start it. ;)
In fact, the KJV translates the Hebrew word for "sons" as "children" 31% of the time; it translates the word for "sons" as "sons" 60% of the time. It gets even more complex than that-believe it or not, the KJV translates the Hebrew word for "sons" as "men" 14 times!
You ask good questions. I'd encourage you to maintain a position of basic trust that Christian scholars tried their best to translate accurately. Don't be too suspicious. ;) But do ask questions!
@markwardonwords Sir, that helps a great deal. Thank you. Looking forward to learning more through you.
I prefer sons because that is LITERALLY whst Paul is addressing in there being no male or female in Christ. We all have inheritance as sons. Christ the firstborn, and us all as younger sons with half the portion each of the firstborn, figuratively. :)
If one actually reads that 1611, they'd be surprised how quickly one learns to easily read that gothic type. I have that 1611 1st. Edition (#4)...there's just something about it that makes reading it so special- Between the ornate beauty of it, and the fact that you have to read a tad slower and concentrate a little harder (Due to the gothic type) it just seems like it's more formal and reverential; and you actually seem to get more out of it.
Great! More power to you! I have not had that experience, but I don’t deny yours!
The speaker shares his top 5 recommendations for King James Version (KJV) Bibles, highlighting their features and suitability for different purposes, while also mentioning some honorable and dishonorable mentions.
Key moments:
00:00 The speaker shares their top five additions of the King James Version Bible, expressing love for the version and highlighting specific features of each addition.
-The speaker emphasizes their admiration for the King James Version and clarifies that criticism does not equate to hatred.
-A detailed review of the Thomas Nelson KJV personal size large print reference Bible, focusing on its design and layout.
-Discussion on a 1611 reprint of the King James Version, highlighting its historical significance and usefulness for video presentations.
05:04 The video discusses different editions of the King James Bible, highlighting the Cambridge Clarion and the new Cambridge paragraph Bible for their typography, layout, and textual accuracy.
-The Cambridge Clarion and the new Cambridge paragraph Bible are praised for their beautiful typography and layout, making them ideal choices for Bible readers.
-The new Cambridge paragraph Bible stands out for its textual accuracy due to David Norton's meticulous work in correcting printer errors and aligning it with the original 1611 version.
-The TBS Westminster Edition, though high quality, is critiqued for its layout with double columns and paragraph symbols, which may hinder readability for some users.
10:08 The TBS Westminster Reference Bible makes efforts to explain archaic words in the King James Bible, though it's hit or miss with some words. It stands out for its clarity compared to other editions.
-The TBS Westminster Reference Bible clarifies archaic words like 'fray' to 'frighten', making it more understandable than other King James editions.
-The compact size and unique layout of the TBS Westminster Reference Bible make it a practical choice for those needing a portable King James version.
-The Defined King James Bible, while helpful in defining unfamiliar words, is criticized for its unattractive design and typography, lacking in aesthetic appeal.
15:11 The speaker recommends the Skyler Travaris as the top choice for a King James Bible due to its design and features, despite some criticisms about the drop caps. The Bible's single column, paragraphed layout, and red text for Jesus' words are highlighted as beneficial for reading and teaching.
-Comparison with other editions like the Cambridge Clarion and the new Cambridge paragraph Bible, as well as the Thomas Nelson red edition, is discussed. The Travaris is praised for its minimalist design and clear verse numbering in the margins.
-The speaker appreciates the Travaris' layout for poetry, noting the clear line matching and lack of ghosting. However, there is a critique about the drop caps being too bold and distracting, suggesting a more elegant approach.
-The use of red text for Jesus' words is mentioned as a helpful typographical convention, aiding in quickly identifying His speech. The speaker also addresses the misconception of treating red letters as more divine.
Generated by sider.ai
“Great review!”😃👍
I absolutely love the definitions and layout of The Defined King James Bible. There’s something about the font and word spacing that truly agrees with my eyes. It’s a delightful reading experience that I highly recommend.”
✝️👍
I love the look of your top pick. It gives out the kind of ancient but relevant vibes that I adore about Christmas music. If my home weren’t already swimming in copies of the KJV, I would want it to impress upon my kids the beauty and grandeur of this piece of English literature.
I agree with you on the misleading use of chapter breaks for the drop caps. It would be more helpful to have every original break highlighted that way and only those (i.e., not honoring the many terrible splits we have to endure).
I grew up using a simple edition with only the translators and chapters-and-verse designators between me and the originals. Ever since, I’ve been wary of the doctrinal presuppositions of many of the headings I’ve seen and prefer to find the themes for myself.
I’ve never owned a single column KJV. I didn’t even know they existed!
Thanks so much for sharing your love of quality books with us.
You gotta have that old Scofield bible or you ain’t got a Bible :)
I’ve actually heard this sentiment in a church service before
Not surprised!
I really annoy my pretending-we-aren't-baptist church by really not liking Scofield. 😂
Mark, I agree with you about the Cambridge Clarion, but I'm surprised you didn't mention the Cambridge Concord or Humble Lamb KJV Lion - both are excellent KJV editions.
The Humble Lamb has some nice features; the Concord is just too far away from my preferences to make the list!
The Concord gets credit for including the original translators' notes and the preface. But Mark Ward makes a good point in the video: if you must use the verse-by-verse format, at least find a better way to mark the start of a new paragraph than a pilcrow.
I had hoped you’d have the Schuyler Treveris as your number one, Mark! It is my favourite KJV bible for hand size and text block. I am in mine currently every day even though the ESV is my main translation the last couple years. The Treveris is a pretty bible, especially mine which is Firebrick Red with blue under silver, and the drop caps I barely notice while reading. Schuyler red letter is good and dark, too.
They really are great! Minus the drop caps. ;)
Where the KJV 1611 reprint can be found to buy it?
kjvstore.com!
What about The Reformation Heritage Study Bible
Good notes, I'm sure. But dual column, every-verse-a-paragraph. Not super well done. =| But I love Joel Beeke and Mike Barrett.
What do you mean by verse by verse?
Every verse gets set on its own separate line, like a new paragraph. So the verse numbers go straight down the left side of the page.
Should have added links to those Bibles for purchase. Thank you brother!
Oh, good idea!
Thoughts on humble lamb bibles?
Not just because they ghosted me…
All the Humble Lamb Bibles I've seen have been gaudy-gaudy exteriors, gaudy interiors, even gaudy text block edges. =|
The KJV Lion does define the archaic words in the footnotes, which is great. I like the look of the purple edition, but not so much the yellow and pink editions. My only two aesthetic gripes with it are the title "The Word of God" on the spine (which feels too pretentious and self-important on the publisher's part, unlike the classic, understated "Holy Bible") and the hideous lion artwork on the page edges (unless you order an edition with purple under the gilt instead). I disagree with Mark Ward on the interiors: that's exactly the right kind of "gaudy" for the King James Version, as you can see from the 1611 edition facsimile he showed in the video.
Thanks, Mark. I don't use the KJV enough to have a large personal investment of nice KJV Bibles, but not long ago I had to research what would be the best NASB '95 Bible for my preaching ministry. The one I landed on is very much like the Treveris, which was the Large Print Wide Margin, from Steadfast Bibles. The one and only thing that I don't like about it is that it is not red letter, which I prefer. If you haven't seen this NASB, you might be very happy with it, being that you like the Treveris so much. - Smiles
Yes, they've done some good things!
Very interesting choices, & very informative. I always appreciate, learn from, and enjoy your videos, and have great respect for your teaching.
(And I must get a teensy Bible!)
I have to respond to your critique of the Schuyler. Like your friend, I love me some drop caps, and aside from my "gaudy" taste (no offense taken!), they do actually help me navigate quickly to my destination when frantically looking for a verse the rest of the class is already discussing.
Also, I rather like 2-column pages because it is sometimes hard to follow a long line of text without the eye slipping to the next line, or the one before.
Not a biggy, but I think I would find the verse numbers off to the left an irritation in Sunday School.
Since I'm writing anyway: I'm not a KJV onlyist, just an ardent admirer, but I do prefer the beauty and poetry of the KJV language over even the best modern translations. I happily use the REB, NSRVue, CSB, ESV, NLT, etc, also (I am both a bibliophile and a Bible-phile), and I have no issue with anyone choosing modern translations. However, I find it irritating to keep hearing that people should not try to read the KJV because it's too hard. I take your point about les faux amis in EME; however, I never had a problem learning full definitions or distinguishing between old and current usage. We used KJV, ASV, RSV, AAT, etc, in our house, and any translation we pleased in our church), but I still somehow imbibed enough EME to fearlessly read without issue from an early age and without special instruction (TBH, I am sure I asked a lot of questions, I just don't remember that stage).
Any good reader and native English speaker educated in American public schools should be able to read and understand EME, considering: Most have to study 2 years of foreign languages to graduate high school; while English has both grown and streamlined in the past 400 years, EME is far more similar to modern English than the German, Spanish, Latin, Mandarin, and programming languages I studied. We started Shakespeare in 6th grade, and got hit with him again every year through graduation, so I would expect most 18YO Americans would have learned some EME whether they read the Bible or not. High school seniors in my day had to learn to read Beowulf in OE and Chaucer in ME, beside which EME is a snap.
If anyone cannot read EME even after 1 term of OE Beowulf and ME Chaucer, 2+ years of foreign language, 7+ terms of EME Shakespeare, and 13+ years of English classes, the educational system has gotten even worse than I thought.
Finally, quite apart from the Geneva and KJV, some of the best literature ever written was in older English forms. Must we either update or abandon Sterne, Marlowe, Bacon, Chaucer, Bede, Pepys, and Shakespeare along with the KJV? The world will be so poor if we spurn the masterpieces of our past because they are "too hard to read."
Great comment. I won't comment on the many areas of agreement…
I'll mention only that, of course, if no one were insisting on the exclusive use of the KJV *as a Bible doctrine* and therefore laying it on the consciences of others, my channel would be very different. It would be far less popular, too, I think. What I'm pushing against is KJV-Onlyism, not the use of the KJV as such. I use the KJV constantly in Bible study. I am also, however, pushing back against the use of the KJV in institutional settings, especially pulpits. And there you might disagree with me. But I do it because of 1 Cor 14 and a) its teaching that edification requires intelligibility and b) its emphasis on having service elements be accessible to the uninitiated.
I dare say I'm a pretty good reader like you, and that I have been for decades. And yet yesterday, yet again, someone brought to my attention a KJV phrase I'd been misunderstanding without realizing it. Wanna test yourself on it? Don't look it up:
"Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would inquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him."
Where's the faux amis? If even you and I get tripped up by these things, we should not put any pressure on the uninitiated-and the poor reader-to use the KJV.
@@markwardonwords Thank you so much for your reply, and I do understand your mission to get people to read versions they can best understand. I really appreciate your quest and the way you approach it. I simply get irritated by the words "too hard" I see repeatedly (not from you) because of thee, thou, ye, etc, none of which are even a little bit hard. It reminds me of my aggravation with a childhood friend who judged whether or not a book was too hard by how thick it was. (Rather to my shock, she grew to be a surgeon.) She wouldn't touch a book more than 1/2"" thick, at least up to 12 years old.
Regarding your test passage, I have to admit that I had to read it twice to notice the false friend (I think) just because that particular sentence is such a tangle of words to start with. I'm guessing you refer to "or", which I would interpret as "in order if and when" -- am I right?
Because of my taste for 17th through 19th century English authors, I am not apparently aware that certain words have fallen out of use or become archaic. They're still alive, with their full historical and current meanings, in my daily reading! 🙂
BTW, you have mentioned growing up in Northern Virginia. I grew up in Arlington, myself, though I would guess 25+ years ahead of you. Always so glad to encounter another Northern Virginian, even though I've been less happily in Central Virginia the last 54 years. I had a wonderful childhood there, and a very good education; I'll always be grateful that I was born and spent my childhood there.
I have always likewise been grateful for the churches we attended there. I was truly hurt to find that the church we attended with my grandparents and great aunt when I was very young has a new building and name, and little or no continuity from the 120 preceding years other than the location. Then I was devastated when I discovered just last month that the wonderful little neighborhood church we attended after that, the one where I was baptized, has just closed for good this summer. Far too many shuttered churches lately!
@@f.k.e.parsons2113 Yes, I was born in Alexandria!
"Or ever" in 1611 meant "before." The OED says that this use is "Now rare (British regional and poetic)."
@@markwardonwords Thanks!
my fave KJV is the 67 new scofield (even though i am not dispy)
I only have 1 KJV bible, the TBS Westminster. I don't mind the double column, and as someone who doesn't have a lot of experience reading the KJV I like that it notes a lot of words that have changed - even if not all of them. But I don't mind that, as that's where your videos and my pen come in handy!
✔
How is logos software?
Excellent! I use it nonstop!
@@markwardonwords I will have to look into it
I need the small Bible
Please somebody help me get on track
@markwardonwords I was wondering what you thought of the KJV study bible by Reformation Heritage
Great guys put it together. I love Beeke and Barrett. I've interviewed Beeke, a precious brother; and I've interviewed Barrett-super gifted guy. I don't agree with Beeke's "Practical Reasons" for retaining the KJV. But I still have immense respect for that great man.
Oh: you want to know what I think of the edition! I think the actual typography of the Scripture portions-the typeface and layout, especially the latter-is unfortunate. I just don't see why tradition has to beat readability here. Double columns I can live with, but every-verse-a-paragraph-I don't want to be doctrinaire, but I'd be happy to n ever see that again. If you're going to go verse-by-verse, at least group the verses into paragraphs the way the Thomas Nelson KJV I'm holding in the thumbnail does.
@@markwardonwords What about the study notes? how does it hold up to the false friends? I haven't been able to go through it much but I saw what you said about the defined KJV and I wanted to know what you thought of the study bible
@@nour7anna I confess ignorance on this point. I'd really love to know. I have never heard anyone mention that it footnotes archaic English. But I would LOVE to be able to recommend it. I need to get hold of a copy…
@@markwardonwords it does! I would love to see your review!
Looking quickly at 2 Tim. 2 the notes say:
2:15 Timothy must be diligent in his labors so as not to be ashamed because of any impurity or disorderliness. Rightly dividing the word of truth is imagery taken from either the temple priests who had to divide the sacrificial animals according to the Mosaic precepts or from a steward of a household, called to divide the food and allocate to every member of the household his fitting portion.
2:16-18 vain babblings. Empty words that have no spiritual content though proclaimed loudly, and serve no other purpose than to cause confusion, leading unstable people away from the faith, canker. Gangrene, a devastating infection unless it is thoroughly rooted out.
2:19-21 sure. Firm. meet. Suitable.
So it gives some notes just like a study bible. But it also defines individual words. I’d love to hear your take in a more in depth video
1 kings 18
18:21 How long halt ye between two opinions? The Hebrew could be either "how long do you limp on two wooden crutches?" or "how long do you limp on two divided (thoughts)?" Either way they were unstable and uncommitted.
I grew up using KJV, but have since switched to NASB and the updated Berkley Version, Modern Language Bible. I really really wish bibles had better footnotes. This is one reason I read the Berkley Version. It has the best foot notes that I have seen in a bible, but more would be even better. I don't use references ever, but I sure enjoy the footnotes. I don't understand why there are not more in the bibles.
Catholic Bibles tend to have standard footnotes that offer commentary on the text. The KJV was barred from containing such footnotes because the notes in the Geneva Bible were controversial. Since then, most Protestant Bibles have not come with extensive notes in their standard editions. One notable exception is the NET Bible.
I see your reasoning.
But for my own purposes, I prefer double columns. This makes it much easier to bookmark your place, and find it again.
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It would be good, though, for me to have a KJV with annotations right in the text, as the Amplified Bible does.
Especially if it were a Thompson Chain-Reference!
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Jesus Christ is Lord!
:--}>
P.S. I see in this video, that the KJV 1611 used the long "s", for internal letter "ess's". This would be a "False Friend", to those who take it to be an "f".
True! An orthographic false friend!
I've met weird heretic cults who pronounce it as f and the I for J as if it is Eye-udah for Judah. Happineffes. Amazing. In a bad way.
I’d love a polyglot* printed using the easiest to read modern font. It must include include introductions, maps etc, plus any & all marginal/footnotes just as they came from the printer
*1611, 1769, most recent update, & NKJ
I’ve got the NCPB and ESV Treveris. Both are excellent
Yes!
Why no Humble Lamb?
I think they're gaudy. =| Too much. And I don't like verse-by-verse settings. Sorry! Don't want to steal anyone else's joy!
Did you notice that the tiny KJV appeared to have relatively (for the size) large margins...for note taking?? 🤔
For elves, I think.
The original KJV 1611 edition was originally published in both a gothic, and a roman type text. The text varied depending on the size of the edition. The smaller editions had the Roman font.
And the roman type was used for what we now use italics for!
@markwardonwords I think he is referring to the original order, I'm not sure all were released in 1611, Tim Berg would likely know, but if I recall correctly there were two sizes ordered.
But, why would you want the Roman type face? If I ever get a replica of the 1611, I would want the Gothic typeface, it takes a little getting used to, perhaps, but it is magnificent.
We're so close to having the miniature Russian phrase book and Bible as seen in "Dr. Stranglelove"!
Ha!
I prefer Christ’s words in blue myself
I have that super small bible as a Christmas ornament.
Nice!
Thank you, Brother Mark 🌹⭐✨😄⭐🌹
Welcome!
Please keep doing these Bible review/recommendation videos! I hopped on the nerdy Bible bandwagon a while ago, and I hope to add to my collection as I’m able.
I will consider this!
Gotta have a video like this for all translations now I guess 🤷♂️
That's a great idea!
Please!
I have the very first one too. It is a beautifully done Bible!
It really is!
I prefer double columns, verse by verse is a must, wide margins
Oh and it's a nkjv
Pretty Bibles & great video! I must have 15 physical Bibles in different translations, and some I don’t want to mess up by reading - love that we have Logos! My oldest KJV is a Cambridge I was gifted to use in theology classes. It is very old/fancy & there’s no translation indicator on the spine.😂 Back then, I wrote all kinds of notes in it. SMH at myself now. 😮
I loved taking paper notes in the olden days. Now it's all digital!
I like the drop-caps.
I appear to be a minority! It's ok!
"There are no headings..." - a cause for celebration in my book - by what authority do translators include these unscriptural headings?
As long as readers know they're not original, I find them to be helpful!
The original 1611 KJV had chapter headings. For instance, here are the headings for Genesis 1-3 (with the original spelling, courtesy of King James Bible Online).
CHAP. I.
1 The creation of Heauen and Earth, 3 of the light, 6 of the firmament, 9 of the earth separated from the waters, 11 and made fruitfull, 14 of the Sunne, Moone, and Starres, 20 of fish and fowle, 24 of beasts and cattell, 26 of Man in the Image of God. 29 Also the appointment of food.
CHAP. II.
1 The first Sabbath. 4 The maner of the creation. 8 The planting of the garden of Eden, 10 and the riuer thereof. 17 The tree of knowledge onely forbidden. 19. 20 The naming of the creatures. 21 The making of woman, and institution of Mariage.
CHAP. III.
1 The serpent deceiueth Eue. 6 Mans shamefull fall. 9 God arraigneth them. 14 The serpent is cursed. 15 The promised Seed. 16 The punishment of Mankind. 21 Their first clothing. 22 Their casting out of Paradise.
@@MAMoreno I refer you to Revelation chapter 22 verse 18: the KJV is corrupt, too!
@@davidchilds9590Do you think that editors are trying to trick you into think it's scripture? So you also get mad at tables of contents? Cross references? Footnotes? Marginal notes? VERY early bibles had marginal markings.
@@markwardonwords In my experience, a lot of readers do NOT know they are not original. In many cases, they are only one way of analysing the text and other divisions would be equally valid, but the heading 'guide' the reader in a particular (and not necessarily scriptural) way.
I really enjoyed this video but I’ve noticed a lot of Americans see words as false friends which in northern England are not archaic but used regularly. It was not uncommon in Yorkshire to hear people using thee’s and thou’s in conversation in the late 20th century.
My mum (Gen X) actually still sometimes threatens me (Gen Z) with being maimed or halt.
Wow! Cool! Can you give me what you'd take to be a direct quote for the word "halt"?
And do you have any other examples?
And I was aware that "thee" and "thou" are still used in Yorkshire, but are they used the same way as they're used in the KJV?
@@markwardonwordsI'm American and was confused by you thinking halt is a false friend. The phrase "halting speech" or "halting step" is still very much in use.
Aside from which, the Hebrew can mean "to stand firm" as well as to "stand still." Hesitate isn't even a good translation, though it's in the meaning the KJV authors used. When God pesach'd over the Isrealites so the Angel of Death did not enter, he most certainly did not hesitate! And no it does NOT mean to hop or leap. It's a mistranslation that slides in because of a rabbinical interpretation being stuck in the LXX, where a meaning from Song of Solomon was stuck into the Exodus narrative because they are both being read messianically--the beloved bounding over the hills is transferred into the Passover. Jerome picked it up from the LXX because he didn't know the meaning, and it got into the KJV that way.
So now we are calling it the Passover when that isn't at all the literal meaning of the word....
It's not the worst error. But it's annoying.