India is a multilingual country, and many Christian families read the Bible in more than one language. Parents may pray in Telugu, Tamil or Hindi, while children study in English at school. Preachers often switch languages during a sermon. For all these situations, a parallel Bible can be a wonderful tool.
What is a parallel Bible?
A parallel Bible prints two (sometimes more) Bible texts side by side, verse by verse, usually in columns on the same page. There are two main kinds:
- Bilingual (diglot) Bibles — the same Bible in two languages, for example English and Telugu, English and Hindi, or English and Tamil.
- Parallel translation Bibles — two or more English translations side by side, for example KJV and NIV, or KJV and NKJV.
Who benefits from a bilingual Bible?
- Families with mixed reading languages. Grandparents can read the mother-tongue column while grandchildren follow in English during family prayer.
- Preachers and teachers who speak to mixed-language congregations and want to read a verse in both languages.
- Translators and interpreters in church services and conferences.
- Language learners — reading the Bible in a second language alongside one you know well is an excellent way to learn.
- Students who were taught the Bible in one language and now study in another.
Who benefits from a parallel translation Bible?
- Bible students who want to compare how translations render a difficult verse.
- Readers moving from the KJV to a modern translation, who like to see both together.
- Teachers preparing lessons for people who use different versions.
What to check before buying
Which languages and which texts?
Check exactly which translations are used in each column — for example, which English version is paired with the Indian-language text. Churches often prefer a particular edition.
Layout
Most bilingual Bibles use two columns on each page; some put one language on the left page and one on the right. Verse alignment matters: good editions keep the same verses level so you can find your place easily.
Size and weight
A parallel Bible holds two complete texts, so it is thicker and heavier than a normal Bible, often with smaller print. If it will be carried every Sunday, consider a New Testament diglot, which is much lighter. For home or pulpit use, a full Bible is fine.
Print size
Indian scripts can be hard to read when printed small. Check the print size, especially if the Bible is for an older reader.
Binding
Because parallel Bibles are heavy, a strong binding matters. Hardcover suits home use; a flexible leather or vinyl cover is easier to carry.
Bible Society of India diglots
The Bible Society of India publishes diglot (two-language) Bibles and New Testaments pairing English with several Indian languages, as well as combinations of two Indian languages. These are among the most widely used bilingual Bibles in Indian churches.
Tips for using a parallel Bible
- Read the passage first in the language you know best, then in the second language.
- Notice where the two differ — it often reveals a deeper meaning in the original.
- Use it during family devotions so each person reads in their own language.
- Teach children memory verses in both languages.
Browse our BSI Bibles, Telugu, Hindi and Tamil collections, and read our guide to choosing a Telugu Bible.