NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
20 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Philippians 4:11 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
21 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.
21 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.
19 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
Actually, I don't have a sense of needing anything personally. I've learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances.
21 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.
18 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
20 words
KJV
21 words
ESV
21 words
NLT
19 words
MSG
21 words
NASB
18 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Philippians 4:11?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Philippians 4:11 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 Philippians 4:11 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.