NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.
13 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Proverbs 3:14 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.
19 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold.
17 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
For wisdom is more profitable than silver,and her wages are better than gold.
13 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
She's worth far more than money in the bank; her friendship is better than a big salary.
17 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
For her profit is better than the profit of silver And her gain better than fine gold.
17 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
13 words
KJV
19 words
ESV
17 words
NLT
13 words
MSG
17 words
NASB
17 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Proverbs 3:14?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Proverbs 3:14 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 3:14 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.