How Many Languages Has the Bible Been Translated Into?
Quick Summary
As of 2024, the full Bible has been translated into over 740 languages, the New Testament into more than 1,660 languages, and portions of Scripture into over 3,600 languages. These numbers reflect the Bible's unprecedented global reach and the ongoing work of translation organizations.
Introduction
The Bible is the most translated book in human history. Its message has moved from Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek into almost every corner of the globe. The sheer scale of translation work reflects both the Christian call to spread the gospel and the linguistic richness of God’s creation.
So how many languages are we talking about—and how is that number still growing today?
Global Bible Translation Statistics
According to data from Wycliffe Global Alliance and the United Bible Societies, as of early 2024:
The full Bible (Old and New Testaments) is available in 740+ languages.
The New Testament only is available in 1,660+ languages.
At least one book of the Bible exists in over 3,600 languages.
This means that nearly 5.9 billion people have access to the full Bible in their heart language, and more than 7.4 billioncan access at least part of it.
Why So Many Translations?
Each translation seeks to bring Scripture into a specific linguistic and cultural context. A "language" includes not just major national languages, but also local dialects and tribal tongues. There are over 7,000 known living languages in the world, so the work of Bible translation is both immense and ongoing.
Translation also helps:
Spread the gospel across people groups
Support local churches and literacy programs
Preserve languages that may otherwise fade from use
Key Organizations in Translation Work
Wycliffe Bible Translators: Founded in 1942, Wycliffe has played a leading role in Scripture translation, literacy, and language development.
United Bible Societies (UBS): A fellowship of Bible societies around the world, responsible for distributing millions of Bibles each year.
Seed Company, SIL International, Biblica, and many smaller groups contribute as well.
Together, they support thousands of translators—many of whom are native speakers—working to make Scripture accessible in heart languages.
How Long Does It Take?
Translation projects can take 10–20 years, depending on the language’s complexity, resources, and community involvement. Advances in technology, including AI tools and software like Paratext, have accelerated the process in recent years.
Why This Matters
For many Christians today, reading the Bible in their own language is a given. But for millions, this is still a hope. The ongoing work of translation not only spreads the gospel—it affirms the dignity of every culture and tongue.
Every language matters because every person matters.
