GRAND RAPIDS, MICH. November 17, 2025 — Zondervan, part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, today announced that the NIV Study Bible has surpassed 10 million copies sold worldwide, a historic milestone for one of the most trusted and widely used study Bibles in publishing history.
This milestone comes on the heels of another celebration—the 40th year of the NIV Study Bible in print. First introduced by Zondervan in September of 1985, the NIV Study Bible launched the modern study Bible movement by pioneering a new approach to biblical scholarship. It was among the first study Bibles to emphasize exegetical notes that explain what the text means, rather than purely theological commentary, making deep biblical scholarship accessible to everyday readers. For 40 years, it has been continuously revised and updated to remain current with the latest archaeological discoveries and biblical scholarship, serving as an indispensable resource for pastors, students, families, and anyone seeking to better understand and apply Scripture.
The milestone carries significance beyond sales figures. Each NIV Study Bible sold contributes to funding Bible translation work worldwide. Through Zondervan’s partnership with Biblica, a portion of the proceeds from all NIV Bible sales supports translation efforts for the billion people speaking 3,500+ heart languages still waiting for the Bible. Biblica is committed to translating and freely releasing God’s Word for all people groups who want to learn more about the God of the Bible.
“Reaching 10 million copies is not just a numbers milestone; it demonstrates that regardless of the age or background of anyone turning or returning to the Bible, the foundational trust in this translation doesn’t change. Our study Bibles have impacted generations for 40 years and will continue to do so for decades to come,” said Melinda Bouma, VP, Associate Group Publisher for Bibles at Zondervan.
The enduring success of the NIV Study Bible reflects the dedication of the international biblical scholars who have contributed to the resource across multiple revisions over four decades. The study notes were developed by a team of scholars serving on the Committee on Bible Translation, responsible for the translation and oversight of the NIV, ensuring continuity with the biblical text for both academic and general readers. This collaborative approach has enabled the NIV Study Bible to be updated with new discoveries while maintaining doctrinal balance and scholarly integrity.
Dr. Kenneth L. Barker, member of the NIV Study Bible editorial committee since 1978 and General Editor of the NIV Study Bible since 1980, commented, “I am grateful for the opportunity I was given nearly 50 years ago to create this incredible resource. I’m amazed and humbled that it has sold more than 10 million copies, and I give all glory to God and my deepest gratitude to the associate editors for all their help and insights over these forty years.”
The NIV Study Bible features more than 20,000 study notes, along with full-color maps, charts, archaeological insights, and comprehensive cross-references. The most recent edition, the 2020 Fully Revised Edition, introduced significant updates to ensure the resource reflects current scholarship and remains relevant for today’s readers. General Editor Dr. Kenneth L. Barker and Associate Editors Dr. Mark Strauss, Dr. Craig Blomberg, Dr. Jeannine Brown, and Dr. Michael Williams led this comprehensive revision, incorporating the latest archaeological discoveries and contemporary biblical research while preserving the accessible approach that has made it trusted by millions.
The NIV Study Bible is available in various bindings and formats, including hardcover, Leathersoft™, genuine leather, and digital editions. You’ll find it wherever books and Bibles are sold. Learn more at thenivstudybible.com.
About Zondervan
Zondervan, a worldwide leading Christian publisher of books and Bibles, is part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc. Its publications include a variety of Bible translations for all ages; books in different genres and subject areas for the general reader; curriculum for individual and group Bible study; books for children and young adults; academic resources including textbooks and reference books; ministry resources; and books on faith and culture. Zondervan is based in Grand Rapids, MI. For more information, visit www.zondervan.com.
About the NIV
The New International Version (NIV) is the world’s bestselling modern-English Bible translation—accurate, readable, and clear, yet rich with the detail found in the original languages. The NIV is the result of over 50 years of work by the Committee on Bible Translation, who oversee the efforts of many contributing scholars. Representing the spectrum of evangelicalism, the translators come from a wide range of denominations and various countries and continually review new research to ensure the NIV remains at the forefront of accessibility, relevance, and authority. Every NIV Bible that is purchased helps Biblica translate and give Bibles to people in need around the world. For more information visit www.thenivbible.com.
Contact: Serena DeKryger, Marketing Manager, Publicity & Reader Engagement, Zondervan Bibles, Academic, and Reflective, serena.dekryger@harpercollins.
