Five Fundamentals Make for a Firm Foundation of the New International Reader’s Version
Readable — written at a third-grade reading level
Children are taught to read and memorize the Bible, but comprehension is frequently difficult, if not impossible, due to the reading level of the Bible being used. In addition, many adults, including those for whom English is a second language, also struggle with reading. The NIrV has been designed to relieve this frustration many children and adults experience and help them to understand the Word of God.
The NIrV is written at a third-grade reading level. Sentence structure, grammar, syntax, and word selection are all carefully reviewed to ensure maximum comprehension while retaining Biblical accuracy. Children 10 years of age or younger will find the NIrV more enjoyable to read than other Bible versions because they will be able to understand what they are reading. Adults who are learning to read will also find the NIrV a perfect resource for Bible reading and study.
Understandable — carefully selected words and unique features enhance reading comprehension
Throughout the work to make the New International Reader’s Version a more readable translation, a heavy emphasis was also placed on making it more understandable. Literary experts and educators working on the NIrV examined both sentence structure and word choices, searching for every possible opportunity to clarify the Scriptures for the early reader and others who struggle with the English language.
Other features were also examined to ensure maximum comprehension and minimize reader confusion.
- A Bible dictionary is included with every NIrV Bible. This dictionary explains important theological terms that even young readers need to learn, such as grace and sacrifice.
- All footnotes have either been moved or removed. When a verse quotes another part of Scripture, the reference appears right after the verse. Several verses that do not appear in the oldest available manuscripts can be found in the preface.
- Sectional headings are numerous to assist the reader in following the flow of the text.
- Other special helps are included in both the children’s and adult editions to help encourage Bible reading and comprehension.
Compatible — closely tied to the New International Version
The NIrV is a simplification of the NIV, the most widely read and trusted modern English Bible translation in the world. The NIV enjoys a widespread reputation as the best combination of accuracy and readability. It’s true to the original languages of God’s Word and true to the language of the contemporary reader. However, its seventh-grade reading level, while perfect for most adults, does make reading comprehension difficult for new readers and others who struggle with the English language. For years, prior to the release of the NIrV, people had been requesting a simpler NIV suitable for such readers. The NIrV was created to provide just such a translation.
Also, because the NIrV is based on the NIV, it can make it much easier for children and others to transition to the NIV as their reading skills improve.
Reliable — a multi-denominational effort by over 40 Bible translators and literary experts
Many of the same people who translated the NIV participated in the development of the NIrV. In addition, literary experts and educators specializing in elementary education were involved to ensure the best possible product for the early reader. Everyone who participated in the translation of the NIrV followed the NIV guidelines for accuracy, clarity, and readability, and the NIV was constantly referenced throughout the process. When questions about an appropriate simplification arose, the original Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic Biblical texts were consulted. All simplification work was approved by a final review committee composed of several members of the Committee on Bible Translation, the group responsible for the NIV translation. This extensive committee structure, with its built-in checks and balances, assures Scriptural integrity and literary and stylistic excellence.
In total, almost 40 people from 14 denominations worked together to make the New International Reader’s Version a reality.
Trustworthy — recommended by top Bible scholars
The NIrV is endorsed by leading Bible scholars, preachers and ministry leaders. See select endorsements.
