Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Readable English Bible (READ).
What is the Readable English Bible?
The Readable English Bible (READ) is a free, open-source Bible translation written in clear, simple English. It uses short sentences and everyday words so that anyone can read and understand it.
What does READ stand for?
READ is the official abbreviation for the Readable English Bible, like KJV or NIV for other translations. You can cite a verse as "John 3:16 (READ)".
Is the Readable English Bible free?
Yes. It is completely free to read online, with no account, no ads, and no paywall. The full text is also free to download.
Can I use it in my app, website, church, or book?
Yes. The text is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 (CC BY 4.0). You can copy, share, print, adapt, and use it for any purpose, including commercial products, as long as you give credit. See Downloads & API.
How do I give credit?
Include this line wherever the text is shown: "Scripture from the Readable English Bible (READ), readable.bible, licensed under CC BY 4.0."
Who is it for?
It is for anyone who wants the Bible to be easy to understand: new readers, young readers, people learning English, and people reading the Bible for the first time.
Does it include the whole Bible?
Yes. It includes all 66 books of the Old and New Testaments, with short notes that explain names and words that come from Hebrew or Greek.
Why are a few verses missing?
A small number of verses, such as Matthew 17:21, are found only in some later manuscripts and not in the oldest ones. Like many modern translations, the Readable English Bible leaves them out of the main text and adds a note where they would be.
Is the translation finished?
Not yet. It is a draft that is still being improved, and the wording may change as it is reviewed.
How can I suggest a change or report a mistake?
Open any chapter and tap a verse. You can leave a comment or suggest a clearer wording, and other readers can upvote the best suggestions.
Is there an API or download for developers?
Yes. The full Bible is available as JSON, CSV, USFM, and plain text, and every book and chapter is available from a free JSON API with no key required. See Downloads & API.
Can I read it on my phone?
Yes. The website works on any phone, tablet, or computer, with adjustable text size and a dark mode for reading at night.