[redfog]

I like the ESV, too.

A quote from their website (ESV.org):

The English Standard Version (ESV) is an “essentially literal” translation of the Bible in contemporary English. Created by a team of more than 100 leading evangelical scholars and pastors, the ESV Bible emphasizes “word-for-word” accuracy, literary excellence, and depth of meaning.

Since its publication in 2001, the ESV Bible has gained wide acceptance and is used by church leaders, numerous denominations and organizations, and millions of individuals around the world.

[fatboy]

Actually, the ESV is a revision of The New Revised Standard Version. In other words they didn’t start from square one. The term “essentially literal” is a made up word by the publisher Crossways. Having said that it is a good translation for English speaking people that want a reliable translation for study. You can certainly do worse!

[circlecity]

“ Since its publication in 2001, the ESV Bible has gained wide acceptance and is used by church leaders, numerous denominations and organizations, and millions of individuals around the world.“

For the most part I like the ESV. However for hard core, in depth, study I often go to the NASB - It has some very nice features. For example, whenever the NT quotes the OT it uses all caps.