Why I like the ESV
My church went to the ESV after using the NIV for decades. I carry an NIV (1984) study Bible with me to church so I am able to directly compare the two translations side-by-side. Bible Gateway.com is also handy for these purposes. I find the ESV to be inferior and sometimes downright clumsy compared to the NIV.
So here is the thread where people may post observations and comments about the differences between the two translations.
We've been studying through Deuteronomy in adult Sunday school.
Here are some notable translational differences:
Deuteronomy 32:8
NIV 2011 When the Most High gave the nations their inheritance, when he divided all mankind, he set up boundaries for the peoples according to the number of the
sons of Israel.
ESV 2001 When the Most High gave to the nations their inheritance, when he divided mankind, he fixed the borders of the peoples according to the number of the
sons of God.
NASB 1995 When the Most High gave the nations their inheritance, When He separated the sons of man, He set the boundaries of the peoples According to the number of the
sons of Israel.
AV 1873 When the most High divided to the nations their inheritance, When he separated the sons of Adam, He set the bounds of the people According to the number of the
children of Israel.
Deuteronomy 32:43
NIV 2011 Rejoice, you nations, with his people, for he will avenge the blood of
his servants; he will take vengeance on his enemies and make atonement for
his land and people.
ESV 2001 Rejoice with him, O heavens;
bow down to him, all gods, for he avenges the blood of
his children and takes vengeance on his adversaries.
He repays those who hate him and cleanses
his people’s land.
NASB 1995 Rejoice, O nations,
with His people; For He will avenge the blood of
His servants, And will render vengeance on His adversaries, And will atone for
His land and His people.
AV 1873 Rejoice, O ye nations,
with his people: For he will avenge the blood of
his servants, And will render vengeance to his adversaries, And will be merciful
unto his land,
and to his people.
Rob