American Standard-ASV1901 (ASV)

Overview, history, and usage notes for this Bible translation in Know The Bible.

First Published 1901

Language Early Modern / Modern English transition

Tradition American Protestant

Editors / Translators American Revision Committee (post-1881 RV project)

Reading Level Difficult

Philosophy Formal equivalence (highly literal)

Overview

A more precise and Americanized revision of the KJV.

The ASV is known for its literalness and was a foundational text for several later translations including the RSV and NASB.

Historical Background

Derived from the English Revised Version (1885), adapted for American readers with more accurate manuscript readings and updated wording.

Origin: United States / United Kingdom collaboration
Translators / Editors: American Revision Committee
Revisions: Led to RSV (1952), NASB (1971/1995/2020)

Textual Basis & Features

Below are some distinctives of the American Standard-ASV1901 textual basis and translation style:

Very literal translation style
Frequent use of 'Jehovah' for the divine name
Strong manuscript-based accuracy for its time

Further Reading & Resources

ASV (1901) public domain text
History of the American Revision Committee

Other KTB translations:

ACV ASV BBE DARBY GNV KJV NHE ROT TYN WBT WEB WYC YLT