The Bible versions closest to the original texts are those that aim for formal equivalence, translating as literally as possible from the oldest and best manuscripts available. The New American Standard Bible (NASB) is widely recognized as one of the most accurate English translations, staying very close to the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts. It utilizes the oldest manuscripts and footnotes questionable verses not clearly found in original scripture, making it valuable for deep study. The English Standard Version (ESV) and the New King James Version (NKJV) are also considered close to the original, with the ESV being a slightly more readable, yet essentially literal, modern translation and the NKJV updating the historic King James text with modern language while retaining its textual accuracy. Additionally, for the Greek New Testament, editions like Nestle-Aland and UBS are considered closest to the original Greek texts, though they require knowledge of Greek to read directly. The American Standard Version Byzantine Text Edition is noted for sticking very closely to the Byzantine text tradition of the Greek New Testament. Thus, the NASB, ESV, and NKJV are often recommended for English readers seeking versions closest to the original texts, with NASB frequently cited as the most literal and precise translation in English.
