What is the Literal Standard Version (LSV)?

The Literal Standard Version (LSV) is a relatively recent English Bible translation, first published in 2020 by Covenant Press. It was developed as a modern update to the Young’s Literal Translation (YLT), originally produced by Robert Young in the 19th century. The LSV seeks to preserve the literal nature of the original biblical languages while updating the grammar and readability for contemporary readers. The translation was created by a team of scholars and editors committed to maintaining a high degree of formal equivalence, with a particular focus on consistency and accuracy in rendering Hebrew and Greek terms.

Literal Standard Version – Translation Method
The translation method of the Literal Standard Version is formal equivalence, often referred to as “word-for-word” translation. The translators aimed to stay as close as possible to the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts, even if that meant sacrificing some natural English flow. The LSV retains many Hebraic idioms and grammatical structures, and it consistently translates divine names, such as rendering the Tetragrammaton as “YHWH” rather than “LORD.” The translation also uses consistent terminology across both Testaments to help readers trace theological themes and word usage throughout Scripture.

Literal Standard Version – Pros and Cons
One of the main strengths of the Literal Standard Version is its commitment to literal accuracy and consistency. It is particularly useful for in-depth Bible study, word studies, and for readers who want to see the structure and vocabulary of the original texts reflected in English. The use of “YHWH” for God’s covenant name is appreciated by those who want to see a more direct representation of the Hebrew text. However, the Literal Standard Version’s strict literalism can make it more difficult to read for casual or devotional use. The sentence structure may feel awkward or unnatural to modern readers, and the lack of interpretive smoothing can make some passages harder to understand without additional study tools.

Literal Standard Version – Sample verses
John 1:1, 14 – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God....And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of an only begotten of a father, full of grace and truth.”

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that everyone who is believing in Him may not perish, but may have continuous life.”

John 8:58 – “Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham came, I AM.’”

Ephesians 2:8–9 – “For by grace you are saved, through faith, and this not of yourselves—[it is] the gift of God, not of works, that no one may boast.”

Titus 2:13 – “Waiting for the blessed hope and appearance of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.”