What Is the Berean Standard Bible (BSB)? A Simple Guide
Updated: 2 hours ago
If you have searched for a clear, modern English Bible, you may have come across the Berean Standard Bible, often shortened to BSB. Here is a simple guide to what it is, how it was made and why many readers love it.
Where the name comes from
The name comes from the Bereans in Acts 17:11. When Paul taught them, they received the message eagerly and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what they heard was true. The translation was made with that same goal: to help people read God's Word closely and carefully for themselves.
How the BSB was translated
The Berean Standard Bible is translated directly from the original languages: Hebrew and Aramaic for the Old Testament and Greek for the New Testament. The translators aimed for wording that stays close to the original text while reading naturally in modern English, so it works for both personal reading and study.
Why readers choose the BSB
Clear, modern English that is easy to read aloud and understand.
Faithful to the original Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek.
Freely available: the BSB text has been released to the public domain, so anyone can read, share and quote it without paying.
Good for daily reading, memorising verses and deeper study.
A taste of the BSB
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid. (John 14:27, BSB)
How to start reading the BSB
Begin with one Gospel, such as Mark or John, and read one chapter a day.
Read slowly and ask: what does this show me about God, and what is He asking of me?
Pray about one verse that stood out to you before moving on with your day.
Read and pray with Kimbo Bible
Want to read the Bible every day, in the translation and language you prefer? Kimbo Bible: Study & Pray is a free Bible app for iPhone and Android: read the NIV and other Bible translations, listen to audio, follow a daily plan, read devotionals and pray with guided prayers. It is available in 8 languages (English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, German, Kiswahili, Hindi and Chinese) and is coming very soon to the App Store, with Google Play to follow.
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