Literal
The NRSV is a literal translation — a word-for-word translation of the original text. This approach allows readers who are familiar with the source language to see how meaning was expressed in the original text.
Readable
The rule of the translating committee was “As literal as possible, as free as necessary,” rendering the NRSV both a literal and elegant, readable translation. This focus allows the reader to do the paraphrasing and interpreting in group and individual study and in prayer.
Contemporary
The NRSV is also a direct descendant of the King James and RSV Bibles, passing on the richest and most influential works in the English language while thoroughly updating words, phrases, and grammar so contemporary readers will have no difficulty reading the text.
NRSVA (Apocrypha)
This edition of the NRSV contains the so-called "Apocryphal" or "Deuterocanonical" books in the Roman Catholic canonical order.
