CSB vs. ESV Bible – differences:
Introduction
CSB and ESV are two popular English translations of the Bible.
The Christian Standard Bible (CSB) is a modern English translation of the Bible published by Holman Bible Publishers, a division of Lifeway Christian Resources. It was first published in 2004.
The English Standard Version (ESV) is a revision of the Revised Standard Version (RSV) published in 2001.
These two Bible translations are famous among believers, especially young and new Christians who find the older version, like the King James Version language style, old fashioned and difficult to comprehend.
This article does not aim to position one version as superior or better to the other as they both contain God’s Word.
Instead, it features their uniqueness for Christians or those aiming to study the Bible to make their choices based on the factors discussed.
Here are some biblical references to support the differences between the Christian Standard Bible (CSB) and the English Standard Version (ESV):
CSB vs. ESV:
Translation Philosophy
The ESV translation team opted for a slightly more literal “word for word” approach. In contrast, the CSB team favored a more interpretive “thought for thought” translation style.
The CSB uses both formal equivalence (e.g., 1 Corinthians 13:1) and dynamic equivalence (e.g., Romans 12:16) translation methods. In contrast, the ESV primarily uses formal equivalence (e.g., Matthew 5:18).
Vocabulary
The CSB aims to be an accurate translation that is faithful to the original languages and easy to read and understand.
It combines formal and dynamic equivalence translation methods to balance accuracy and readability.
The CSB uses modern language and a more familiar vocabulary.
CSB uses a more direct tone in expressing thoughts and ideas.
This makes it less ambiguous and more clear. For example, it uses “Do not” while listing the sins Israelites must not commit in the ten commandments (Exodus 20:1-17)
The ESV aims to be a literal translation that is faithful to the original languages and reflects the literary beauty and rhythm of the Bible. It uses a formal equivalence translation method to prioritize accuracy over readability.
The ESV often uses more traditional language, such as “you shall not,” in Exodus 20:1-17.
Gender-inclusive language
The CSB uses more gender-inclusive language than the ESV, such as translating “brothers” as “brothers and sisters” in Romans 1:13.
This use of language will allow people of diverse sexual orientations to feel comfortable studying the Bible and also allow women to feel represented and recognized by God.
The ESV retains more gender-specific language, such as using “man” instead of “people” or “the one,” as used by CSB in Psalm 1:1.
Manuscript tradition
The CSB sometimes follows a different manuscript tradition than the ESV, such as in Psalm 145, where the CSB includes an extra verse (v. 13b) not found in the ESV.
Emphasis on literary style
The ESV places a greater emphasis on preserving the literary beauty and rhythm of the Bible, such as in Psalm 23:4, which reads, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
The CSB prioritizes readability and clarity, such as in the same passage: “Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.”
Translation team
The CSB was translated by a team of more than 100 scholars from various denominations.
The ESV was produced by a smaller team of scholars from a more conservative theological perspective.
Revisions
The CSB translation underwent a revision in 2017, resulting in the removal of “Holman” from its name.
The ESV has undergone multiple revisions, with the first completed in 2007, followed by revisions in 2011 and 2016.
Target Readership
The CSB and ESV translations aim to reach a broad readership, including children and adults.
The ESV translation, in particular, is suitable for all ages, making it an ideal choice for families and individuals looking for a Bible translation that everyone can easily understand and enjoy.
Bible Verse Comparison
Here are some examples of verses in the CSB and ESV translations:
Genesis 1:21
CSB: “So God created the large sea creatures and every living creature that moves and swarms in the water, according to their kinds. He also created every winged creature according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.”
ESV: “So God created the great sea creatures and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarm, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.”
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Romans 8:38-39
CSB: “For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
ESV: “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Philippians 2:12
CSB: “Therefore, my dear friends, just as you have always obeyed, so now, not only in my presence but even more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”
ESV: “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”
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Choosing between CSB and ESV
Both translations have their strengths and uniqueness. The CSB may be easier to read and understand for some people. At the same time, the ESV may be more accurate and faithful to the original languages.
The choice between the two translations may be personal preference and the reader’s specific needs. It’s always a good idea to compare multiple translations and consult with trusted pastors, teachers, or scholars to determine which translation will best meet your needs.
Above all, seek the help of the Holy Spirit to choose the translation that will help you understand God’s Word better and help interpret the Word as you study.
Accuracy and Faithfulness
When trying to know the best Bible translation to stick to as a believer, there are certain factors you must consider.
One of the most important is the accuracy and faithfulness of the translation to the original texts that comprise the Bible.
The Bible is a compilation of manuscripts written thousands of years ago by saints.
These manuscripts have been carefully examined and refined into what we have as a standard Bible today. However, some Bible translations have certain Bible verses missing and distorted.
However, CSB and ESV Bible translations strictly adhere to the original texts of the Bible.
This implies that whether you are studying CSB or ESV, you are studying the genuine Word of God. The only visible differences are literary styles, etc. Therefore, the two Bible translations are accurate and faithful.
Reception and Popularity
The CSB translation has a higher reception rate among the Moderate Evangelism community while the ESV translation is more popular among the Reformed Theology community.
Moderate Evangelicals are more evangelism-oriented.
They emphasize the need to adhere to Jesus’ Great Commission, spreading the Good News or Gospel.
They are also moderate in their theological perspectives, often willing to engage with various theological perspectives within moderate evangelical circles. On the other hand, the Reformed Theology emphasizes grace as the core of Christianity.
Reformed church sermons often reflect simplicity.
CBS is more popular amongst the Moderate Evangelical churches because they focus on evangelism.
Since evangelism opens the scriptures to people with diverse backgrounds and knowledge levels of the Bible, they adopt CBS translations because it maintains clarity in its translation and a balance between word-for-word accuracy and thought-for-thought readability. Therefore, it might be more suitable for new readers.
The ESV version is more popular among the Reformed Theology churches due to its commitment to precision and adherence to the original texts.
Its literal or word-for-word translation philosophy and formal and traditional language use resonates with the Reformed church’s adherence to the covenant theology that takes root from the Old Testament. Therefore, it might be more suitable for Bible scholars.
However, considering the acceptance level of the two translations in churches, ESV is more acceptable, while CBS is experiencing increasing popularity.
The primary factor is based on the translation year. ESV’s first edition was published in 2001 by Crossway Bibles, while CBS’s first complete translation was published in 2004, even though only the New Testament was published in 2001.
Prominent Users/Endorsements
CBS is more recognized and accepted across a wide range of Christian denominations based on its accessibility, simplicity, and inclusive nature and style.
One of its prominent users or denominations is the Southern Baptist Convention. It is also used by a broad spectrum of evangelical Christians and individuals with diverse theological perspectives.
ESV is particularly prominent within Reformed churches because of its traditional style of strict adherence to a word-for-word translation philosophy.
The Bible translation has a significant user base in the Lutheran congregation, consisting of individuals who appreciate a more formal and traditional translation.
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David Akeju is a Christian writer who believes in the transformational power of God’s Word. His articles and books have been published on global platforms, and thousands of lives have been touched. He works with pastors and ministers, churches and ministries, and brands.