NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching.
11 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Proverbs 4:2 — 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 I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.
11 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
for I give you good precepts; do not forsake my teaching.
11 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
for I am giving you good guidance.Don’t turn away from my instructions.
12 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
I'm giving you good counsel; don't let it go in one ear and out the other.
16 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
For I give you sound teaching; Do not abandon my instruction.
11 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
11 words
KJV
11 words
ESV
11 words
NLT
12 words
MSG
16 words
NASB
11 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Proverbs 4:2?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Proverbs 4:2 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 4:2 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.