KJV vs. NKJV: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 26, 2024
KJV (King James Version) is a traditional English Bible translation from 1611, known for its literary style, while NKJV (New King James Version) is a modern translation from 1982, maintaining KJV's style but using contemporary language.
Comparison Chart
Textual Basis
Textus Receptus, earlier translations
More ancient manuscripts, KJV as a base
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Feb 26, 2024
Readability
Archaic language, complex syntax
Updated language, easier syntax
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Cultural Influence
Significant influence on English literature
Less historical impact, modern adaptation
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KJV and NKJV Definitions
KJV
KJV uses Early Modern English language.
The KJV's language, though archaic, has a unique charm.
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Jan 16, 2024
NKJV
NKJV revises KJV based on newer manuscripts.
The NKJV includes recent scholarly insights into biblical texts.
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Jan 16, 2024
KJV
KJV is a historic English Bible translation from 1611.
The KJV has been a foundational text in English-speaking Christianity.
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Jan 16, 2024
NKJV
NKJV is known for its improved readability.
The NKJV is easier to understand for modern readers than the KJV.
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Jan 16, 2024
KJV
KJV is based on the Textus Receptus manuscript.
The KJV's New Testament translation was primarily from the Textus Receptus.
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NKJV
NKJV maintains the literary style of KJV.
Despite its modern language, the NKJV retains the poetic feel of the KJV.
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Jan 16, 2024
KJV
KJV has significantly influenced English literature.
Many common phrases in English come from the KJV Bible.
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Jan 16, 2024
NKJV
NKJV updates the KJV language to modern English.
The NKJV makes the Bible more accessible to contemporary readers.
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Jan 16, 2024
KJV
KJV is renowned for its majestic literary style.
The KJV's Psalms are often praised for their poetic beauty.
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Jan 16, 2024
NKJV
NKJV is a faithful update to the original KJV.
The NKJV carefully balances modern language with traditional reverence.
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Jan 16, 2024
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Repeatedly Asked Queries
Does the NKJV follow the same manuscript as KJV?
It incorporates more ancient manuscripts in addition to the Textus Receptus.
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Feb 26, 2024
Which version is more popular in academic study?
The NKJV is often preferred for its readability and updated scholarship.
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Feb 26, 2024
Which version is easier to read?
The NKJV is generally easier for modern readers.
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Feb 26, 2024
Is the NKJV as poetic as the KJV?
It tries to retain the poetic nature while updating the language.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
Which version is preferred in traditional religious services?
The KJV is often preferred for its traditional and historical significance.
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Feb 26, 2024
Are there significant differences in translation between the two?
Yes, due to different manuscript sources and language updates.
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Feb 26, 2024
Does the NKJV change the theological content of the KJV?
No, it aims to maintain the theological content while updating language and readability.
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Feb 26, 2024
Can beginners to Bible study easily understand the KJV?
Beginners might find the NKJV easier due to its modern language.
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Feb 26, 2024
Do both versions use the same books of the Bible?
Yes, they include the same canonical books.
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Feb 26, 2024
How does the NKJV handle archaic words in the KJV?
The NKJV updates archaic words to their modern equivalents.
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Feb 26, 2024
Is the NKJV considered a literal translation?
Yes, like the KJV, it aims to be a literal translation.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 26, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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