Who Is This For?
Best For:
Those wanting a modern literal translation, divine name enthusiasts, students seeking an accessible literal Bible.
Not Ideal For:
Traditional readers, those uncomfortable with 'Yahweh,' or those wanting established translations with extensive resources.
Strengths & Limitations
✓ Strengths of the LSV
- Modern literal translation
- Uses divine name 'Yahweh' throughout
- Public domain - freely available
- Based on current scholarship
- More readable than older literal translations
✗ Limitations to Consider
- Very new - limited track record
- 'Yahweh' usage unfamiliar to many readers
- Limited supporting resources
- Less established than older translations
- May not be accepted in traditional settings
Overview
The Literal Standard Version is a modern literal translation that uses 'Yahweh' for the divine name throughout, combines readability with accuracy, and is freely available in the public domain. It represents the newest major literal translation of the Bible into English.
Want to read the LSV Bible online? Use our Bible search tool to find any verse, or start reading from Genesis.
Notable Features of the LSV
- Uses 'Yahweh' for the divine name
- Modern literal translation
- Public domain
- Recent scholarship
- Balances literalism with readability
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Literal Standard Version?
The Literal Standard Version is a modern literal translation that uses 'Yahweh' for the divine name throughout, combines readability with accuracy, and is freely available in the public domain. It represents the newest major literal translation of the Bible into English.
How can I read the LSV Bible online?
You can read and search the Literal Standard Version online for free at Acts1 Family. Use our Bible search tool to find any verse, chapter, or keyword in the LSV translation.
When was the LSV Bible published?
The Literal Standard Version was first published in 2020. It is classified as a Literal translation with a 10th Grade reading level.
Who should use the LSV Bible?
Those wanting a modern literal translation, divine name enthusiasts, students seeking an accessible literal Bible.
How does the LSV compare to other Bible translations?
The Literal Standard Version (LSV) is a Literal translation. Compare it with other versions like the KJV, ASV, or NIV using our Bible comparison tools to find the best translation for your needs.
Read the LSV Online
Search any verse, compare with other translations, or start reading from Genesis.
Start ReadingHistory
Complete History of the LSV Translation
The Literal Standard Version was published in 2020 to provide a modern literal translation that would be both accurate and accessible. The project sought to preserve the divine name (YHWH) as 'Yahweh' throughout the text rather than substituting 'LORD' as most translations do.
The translation follows a formal equivalence approach, attempting to preserve the structure and wording of the original languages while still producing readable English. It draws on the latest scholarship and manuscript evidence available.
Translators
Meet the 1 Key Translators and Contributors
Covenant Press
Publisher
The publishing organization behind the LSV translation project.
Textual Basis
Manuscript Sources and Translation Methodology
The Old Testament follows the Masoretic Text. The New Testament uses a critical Greek text. The translation aims to be transparent about textual variants.
Reception
Scholarly Praise
"Reflecting a commitment to sound scholarship and a consistent hermeneutic, the LSV emerges as a readable and approachable text, a welcome addition to the world of biblical translations."
— Association for Mormon Letters, The Holy Bible: Literal Standard Version (reviewed by Jeffrey Needle) (2020) [source]
Scholarly Concerns
The LSV's strict literalism can make it more difficult to read for casual or devotional use. Its mechanically word-for-word approach inclines it towards a higher reading level.
— GotQuestions.org, What is the Literal Standard Version (LSV)? (2024) [source]
Revision History
View 1 Major Revisions and Updates
- 2020 Initial publication.
Compare Translations
See how the LSV compares to other English Bible translations.
Other Translations
Explore these popular Bible translations: