NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
He mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble.
10 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Proverbs 3:34 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly .
13 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor.
13 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
The LORD mocks the mockersbut is gracious to the humble.
10 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
He gives proud skeptics a cold shoulder, but if you're down on your luck, he's right there to help.
19 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
Though He scoffs at the scoffers, Yet He gives grace to the afflicted.
13 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
10 words
KJV
13 words
ESV
13 words
NLT
10 words
MSG
19 words
NASB
13 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Proverbs 3:34?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Proverbs 3:34 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 3:34 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.