Customer Reviews

NASB Update Side-Column Reference; Black Genuine Leather

5 star:		(19)
4 star:		(11)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I purchased my first NASB (1971 version) over 20 years ago. Here are some of the things I like about this version:

1. The version itself: This is the new updated version. If you've seen comparisons of the various Bible versions, the NASB generally is described as the most literal version (word-for-word accuracy) of the Bible that sometimes suffers in terms of readability for that very reason. I believe the reputation has been largely undeserved. There were occasional awkward constructions but, all in all, it was quite readable. With this version they have gone back over sentence structure, vocabulary, etc. with a view toward improving the readability and flow of the language. They have also removed archaic words like Thee and Thou. I think they have succeeded in improving readability without compromising the accuracy of the translation. We now have a literal, word-for-word translation that reads with the best of the modern versions. (I initially liked the NIV, but eventually got to the point where I realized that without an accurate word-for-word translation close by, I would never really know what the Bible was saying.)

2. Large print (11 point). It's not outrageously large, just larger than the normal 7-9 point font size that you regularly see. Great if you are over 40 or just like a larger font.

3. Single column layout with side cross-references. I find that a single column allows my eye to track more naturally across the page, similar to reading a book. The side column references are extensive and helpful without crowding the actual text of the Bible. Also, there is ample space for notes in the generous margins.

4. Quality. From the paper to the layout to the typeface to the binding (Smyth-sewn), everything is done with excellence. If you've been disappointed lately with the quality of Bibles, you won't be with this one. One caveat: The leather of this version is not as supple and soft as you may be used to. It's kind of grainy. This, however, does not detract from the overall perception of quality. (BTW, there is a new deluxe version of this edition coming out soon (due 7/15/02) using the finest genuine cowhide and an even higher quality paper.)

I am very enthusiastic about this version and the quality of the production of this Bible. Highly recommended!

This is how a Bible should be constructed. The leather is top quality, the binding smyth sewn, the printing is large and clear, the size is just right, and it's single column! I changed versions from the NKJV because I just can't stand the junk that Nelson is putting out (Zondervan is even worse!) Bad bindings, poor printing, lousy layout. And it's the same with reference materials; they fall apart with any kind of use. But Foundation is different. If you've ever seen a Cambridge Bible, this is comparable in quality. I really wish the other manufacturers of Bibles would get a clue and start making them like this.

This review takes into consideration several aspects. First, I have considered the price of the publication. It is unfair to judge this product against something not even in its league. I purchased this Bible for under $40 so I have to judge it accordingly. Secondly, I have considered the purpose for this particular Bible. I am a minister and do not particularly care to read from a "study" Bible. This particular publication is perfect in that I have references for clarification (the Bible is the best commentary of its self). I am able to see the Scripture speak without the opinion of man tainting the thought process. References are a must and in this Bible are plenty and a help. I like that they are all on the outside margin. I also appreciate the marginal notes for the literal reading of the Greek as well as alternative and other possible translations for a given reading. The margins aren't what I would call "wide-margin" but do leave plenty of space to write in. Outside of these I don't want anything else for my personal reading and this Bible fits well. I use my "study" Bibles in my sermon preparation and/or as I am going through a second reading. Thirdly, I have considered the materials used. The leather is smooth feeling, strong, nicely textured, and clean. Not the high quality of expensive leathers, but I was very impressed and satisfied. It is breaking in really well. The paper is thicker than most Bibles, perfect for notes without bleeding into the next page. It is Smyth-sewn and proving to be durable. Mine is beginning to lay open really well. The binding should last along time if you respect it. Some dimpling in the pages but I have found that to be normal with many of my other Smyth-sewn bindings. The single text column is what I like and is the format in this Bible. I like the feel of the consistent reading flow that it promotes. I don't care so much for verse numbers getting lost in the paragraph flow. It takes to much time to find a verse. The numbers are outside of the text for easy finding but you still get the original feel for paragraph reading. Type is large enough but not huge. It looks sharp and feels good. I was so impressed with what I got for the price I purchased two. I am sure one will last me most of my ministry but if not I can replace it with another. As a perfectionist type I have a tendency to be critical of things and/or expect a lot from something. So to say that I am pleased with this Bible says a lot.

Almost 2 years after I bought my Genuine Leather, its still in great shape, and I use it daily, albeit with a case, but I'm impressed at how well its made. I also enjoy the 11pt font, which was a deciding factor for me even though my eyes are fine.

I'm generally thrilled with this particular version, NASB Update, but have one complaint. The Bible doesn't give book outlines at the beginning of each book, or even begin a new book on a new page. This is a small nag, but why would a publisher do that?

Amazon sometimes merges reviews on various editions. For most books, this is exactly what you'd want. Obviously, the (Christian) Bible is an exception. So for the record, this review is for ISBN 1885217668. I've read the other reviews dated before this one and everything they say applies to this ISBN. I'll try to not to dwell on points already covered by others.

NASB: I prefer to go as transliteral as possible. Only seems reasonable if you're going to go to all the trouble of actually reading the Bible.

Print: Nice. I wouldn't call it LARGE PRINT but it's comfortable to read. Single column. Nice side column references. Each verse gets a new line but some (well-documented) standards explain what bold numbers, italicized words, letter vs number footnoting, etc all mean.

Paper: Acid free, reasonably thick. I don't highlight my Bibles as all that work would be wasted if I decided to switch. I keep a notebook/computer file. This one seems like the highlighting wouldn't bleed through. Some Bibles, it would bleed through many pages, not just to the other side. All three edges are gilded with gold(like) foil.

Binding: First class. Good (not great) quality leather. This is not a hardcover. Rather a flexible, leather binding.

There is an 82 page concordance and 11 pages of maps in the back.

Personally, I wouldn't mind seeing them add commentaries on each book prior to its presentation: who, when, what about, etc.

This "near-perfect" edition could use some raised spine bands, slightly thicker and more (but not completely) flush-with-the-pages covers, the aforementioned intros/commentaries and a better job with the edge gilding (it may just be my copy but it was a bit thin in places).

Thumbs pretty far up.

I didn't think the perfect bible existed till i bought this one. There is not one negative thing i can say.The margins are perfect for note taking.Binding is excellent. Smyth sewn.Paper is perfect for note takeing and print does not bleed through from under side.Margins are not overly large but just right.I've always prefered the NAS. The updated version is even better.Buy this with study helps and your much better off than a study bible that will always fall short.It is a winner.

I purchased the same Bible about 12 years ago, and despite how some companies find ways to make the same thing cheaper, I am really pleased to say that my new copy of this Foundation Publications edition is of even higher quality than the one it replaces. The print is crisp, and dark, and the paper is even a little thicker for nearly no shading coming through. I am really impressed with this publisher.

But I am also impressed with the updated NASB. You read that it is most accurate to the original. This is a good and trustworthy statement. I took four years of Greek in college and indeed it is in fact the closest translation to the Greek. I read both but for English clarification and rapid review, this is the only one for me. For example, and do look at something like the NLT here for comparison, 2Cor5:17 is translated exactly from the Greek in the NASB. Maybe this is a humorous way of looking at it, but if I wrote a very important letter in Greek, I would want the Lockman Foundation which brings us the NASB to translate it.

The other reviews here are really worth reading including those with the bonded leather cover edition, ISBN 0910618488 . What one describes best is the Smyth-sewn binding. I just like a quality product and the binding is one important part of why I am really happy today to get this new Bible. One feature that serves a good reading is the single-column text. It is free flowing across the page with the references (not too little--not too much) on the outside edge.

This NASB brings me the tenets of the faith, clear bases for correct doctrine, right understanding of Jesus' meaning, and is the best way to be a Christian in the best understanding of the faith. If you appreciate accuracy, a well-made book, a good value, if you are just looking at the Bible or a student of 30 years like myself, you will find what you seek in this edition.

I have now owned my NASB for a little over a year and I have fallen in love with it.

The margins are wide enough to write notes on. The cross references located on the outside margin are handy, and the paper is heavy enough so that light hi-lighting does not bleed through. My only complaint would be that I wish the paper where just a little heavier. All-n-all though, it's a great Bible and a great translation.

I recently purchased the NASB Updated genuine leather side column reference bible for the amazing price of less than $35. The translation reads very well. The leather cover is supple with a smooth grain. Apparently the covers have been improved recently. The Lockman Foundation web site even lists where your bible can be re-bound. It also has color (not b&w) maps. The 11 point black letter text size is rarely found and is just perfect for comfortable reading. I have difficulty seeing red letter printing well for some reason. I greatly appreciate the readability of the side column verse by verse format with wide margins that accomodate note taking. I use Sanford dry highlighters from G.T. Luscombe which do not bleed through the pages. The concordance is extensive enough to be useful. The Smith-sewn binding is outstanding and allows the pages to lie properly right out of the box. Everything about this bible is well done. A minor suggestion would be to put the headings at the beginning of each book. I would also prefer that each book begin on a new page. But this is definitely going to be my daily reader to use in conjunction with the ESV Study Bible. I own expensive Cambridge and Oxford bibles and I can say without hesitation that Foundation Publications has produced a sturdy and well designed bible that is first in it's class by far.

This is a perfect gift. Other than the cover, this is as good a quality product as the Calfskin edition.

Lockman Foundation is truly a trustworthy, top quality manufacturer.

There is AMPLE room for notes in both the margin, the cross-reference column, and between the text lines.

Highly recommended, especially as a gift for Seminary or Bible College students. They'll love using it.