Who Is This For?
Best For:
Aboriginal Australians, Indigenous ministry, those doing Bible translation into Aboriginal languages.
Not Ideal For:
Standard English speakers, academic study, complete Bible needs.
Strengths & Limitations
✓ Strengths of the PEV
- Culturally appropriate for target audience
- Simplified English
- Supports Bible translation work
- Freely available
- Addresses real need
✗ Limitations to Consider
- Translation still incomplete
- Very specialized audience
- Not suitable for standard English speakers
- Limited book coverage
Overview
The Plain English Version is a Bible translation designed for Indigenous Australians whose first language is an Aboriginal language. It uses simplified English adapted to Aboriginal language patterns, making Scripture accessible to communities without translations in their own languages.
Want to read the PEV Bible online? Use our Bible search tool to find any verse, or start reading from Genesis.
Notable Features of the PEV
- Designed for Aboriginal Australians
- Adapted to Aboriginal English patterns
- Simplified vocabulary
- New Testament focus
- Creative Commons license
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Plain English Version?
The Plain English Version is a Bible translation designed for Indigenous Australians whose first language is an Aboriginal language. It uses simplified English adapted to Aboriginal language patterns, making Scripture accessible to communities without translations in their own languages.
How can I read the PEV Bible online?
You can read and search the Plain English Version online for free at Acts1 Family. Use our Bible search tool to find any verse, chapter, or keyword in the PEV translation.
When was the PEV Bible published?
The Plain English Version was first published in 2019. It is classified as a Dynamic Equivalence translation with a 6th Grade reading level.
Who should use the PEV Bible?
Aboriginal Australians, Indigenous ministry, those doing Bible translation into Aboriginal languages.
How does the PEV compare to other Bible translations?
The Plain English Version (PEV) is a Dynamic Equivalence 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 PEV Online
Search any verse, compare with other translations, or start reading from Genesis.
Start ReadingHistory
Complete History of the PEV Translation
The Plain English Version was developed for Aboriginal Australians who speak an Aboriginal language as their mother tongue and do not speak standard English fluently. It is used by those who do not yet have Scriptures in their own language, or who meet with Christians from other language groups.
The translation adapts English to match Aboriginal language patterns: using verbs and adjectives instead of abstract nouns (which are rare in Australian languages), employing shorter sentences, making implicit information explicit, and modifying vocabulary to what is commonly understood by the target audience. Figurative language that could be misunderstood is stated plainly.
Currently about 70% of the New Testament has been translated, along with some Old Testament portions including Genesis and Jonah. The project continues as an ongoing work.
Translators
Meet the 1 Key Translators and Contributors
The Plain English Project
Translation Team
A team working to provide accessible Scripture for Aboriginal Australians whose first language is not standard English.
Textual Basis
Manuscript Sources and Translation Methodology
Standard Greek and Hebrew source texts adapted for Aboriginal English communication patterns.
Reception
Scholarly Praise
"The Plain English Version uses simple vocabulary and sentence structures designed for readers with limited English literacy, including Aboriginal communities in Australia."
— Bible Society Australia, Plain English Version (2024) [source]
Scholarly Concerns
The simplified vocabulary necessarily loses some nuance and theological precision present in more formal translations.
— Translation Reviews, PEV Assessment (2024) [source]
Revision History
View 1 Major Revisions and Updates
- 2019 Current edition published; translation ongoing.
Compare Translations
See how the PEV compares to other English Bible translations.
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