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NASB

NASB The MacArthur Study Bible

Thomas Nelson

First published 1971

TranslationNASB
PublisherThomas Nelson
First Published1971
Canon Proximity10.0 / 10 — Exceptional
NASB
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NASB The MacArthur Study Bible

John MacArthur's comprehensive verse-by-verse study notes paired with the highly literal NASB text — a preeminent resource for serious Bible study and expository preaching.

History & Background

The New American Standard Bible was produced by the Lockman Foundation, completed in 1971 as an update to the American Standard Version of 1901. Scholars sought formal equivalence with updated language. The NASB 1995 update refined readability; the NASB 2020 further updated language while retaining literal precision. Widely regarded as the most accurate English translation available, it is favored by seminaries and Bible scholars worldwide.

Canon Proximity Rating

Canon Proximity10.0 / 10 — Exceptional

Strictly 66 books with formal equivalence translation philosophy. Widely considered the gold standard for accuracy among English translations.

Rating Scale

9–10: Formally equivalent, 66 books
7–8: Dynamic equiv., 66 books
5–6: Includes Apocrypha
1–4: Major departures / additions