NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.
14 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Proverbs 16:9 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.
12 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.
13 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.
11 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
We plan the way we want to live, but only God makes us able to live it.
17 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
The mind of man plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.
13 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
14 words
KJV
12 words
ESV
13 words
NLT
11 words
MSG
17 words
NASB
13 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Proverbs 16:9?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Proverbs 16:9 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 Proverbs 16:9 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.
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