NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings.
17 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Colossians 2:22 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?
15 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
(referring to things that all perish as they are used) — according to human precepts and teachings?
17 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
Such rules are mere human teachings about things that deteriorate as we use them.
14 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
Do you think things that are here today and gone tomorrow are worth that kind of attention?
17 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
(which all [refer] [to] things destined to perish with use)-- in accordance with the commandments and teachings of men?
19 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
17 words
KJV
15 words
ESV
17 words
NLT
14 words
MSG
17 words
NASB
19 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Colossians 2:22?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Colossians 2:22 in 6 translations: New International Version, King James Version, English Standard Version, New Living Translation, The Message, New American Standard Bible. Each uses a different translation philosophy — from word-for-word (KJV, ESV, NASB) to thought-for-thought (NIV, NLT) to paraphrase (MSG).
Which translation of Colossians 2:22 is best?
No single translation is "best" — it depends on your purpose. For deep study, use the ESV or NASB (word-for-word). For devotional reading, the NIV balances accuracy and readability. The NLT and MSG are excellent for understanding the general meaning in modern English. Comparing multiple translations helps grasp the full richness of the text.
What is the difference between literal and dynamic Bible translations?
Literal (formal equivalence) translations like KJV, ESV, and NASB translate word-for-word from the original Hebrew/Greek. Dynamic equivalence translations like NIV and NLT translate thought-for-thought for clarity. The MSG is a paraphrase that captures the spirit in contemporary language. Each approach has strengths — that's why comparing translations is valuable.