The BasisBibel

The BasisBibel is the German Bible translation which is especially intended for the 21st century. Its hallmark features include short, clear sentences (typically no more than 16 words and a single subordinate clause) and a carefully designed layout that includes marginal annotations and explanations. The BasisBibel has thus adapted to the media revolution in the 21st century which has dramatically changed the reading habits of many people. We live in a digital world and have access to a wealth of information at all times. This often leads to rapid, fragmented reading that jumps from one object to another. As readers, we can only see a limited portion of content, depending on the device we use to consume information. The BasisBible addresses these developments.

From a standpoint of translation theory, the BasisBibel strikes a middle path between formal literalism and free dynamic equivalence: it remains faithful to the Hebrew and Greek original texts while aiming for readability and comprehension in contemporary German.

The translation process began in the early 2000s; the full New Testament appeared by 2010, the Psalms in 2012, and the complete Old and New Testament was published in January 2021.

The BasisBibel is officially recommended by the Evangelische Kirche in Deutschland (EKD) for “first encounters” with the Bible, particularly in youth education and religious instruction, though it is equally suitable for adult reading and congregational use.

The BasisBible is available in different editions. They differ in terms of font, book size, and features, depending on their intended use.