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NIV, Archaeological Study Bible: An Illustrated Walk Through Biblical History and Culture
From the beginnings of Genesis to the end of Revelation, this new study Bible is filled with informative articles and full-color photographs of places and objects that will open readers' eyes to the historical context of the stories and people of the Scripture.
2336 pages, Hardcover
First published December 1, 2006
668 people are currently reading
729 people want to read
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* They are officially published under that name
* They are traditional stories not attributed to a specific author
* They are religious texts not generally attributed to a specific author
Books whose authorship is merely uncertain should be attributed to Unknown.
See also: Anonymous
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
April 2, 2012
It's almost hard for me to believe that I bought two of these Bibles back in the day when the first came out. One for myself and a second one for my sister-in-law with the Bachelor of Science in Anthropology. SisterA and my brother were married when I was about 14 years old and I always remember her excitement whenever she went "on a dig". Then eight years later, I heard about this Bible and I knew it was the perfect gift for her. Now four years later, this Bible is still selling strong and there are so many different editions and versions of it available. You can easily find it in a hardcover edition like I have as well as European Leather, Bonded Leather, Top Grain Leather, Renaissance Fine Leather, and Italian Duo-Tone, all of which are available in a variety of colors. It's also available in Large Print. Truly you can find the right edition for anyone. There is even a Bible Cover made for it "The Archaeological Bible Cover" (Designed in a safari style, this cover is constructed from sturdy khaki woven material and features two exterior flap pockets, leather-look™ trim and a spine handle.).
This Bible is just a wealth of information and filled with incredible imagery. They got it right to call it "an illustrated walk through Biblical history and culture". A really cool thing that came with my version is a bonus CD-ROM that contains searchable NIV text and most of the photographs, maps and charts including within the pages of the print Bible.
With my background of Religious Studies, this Bible reads like a fascinating text book to me. The kind that you would definitely not sell back to the book store at the end of your term. It does not matter how many times you pick up this Bible, every time there is something fantastic and new. This would be an incredible addition to any homeschooler's library or just any Bible student in general. I cannot recommend it highly enough. It is very thick, and the only thing that I would change if I were to buy it again, is that I would buy a leatherbound edition. But all and all, I love it.
This Bible is just a wealth of information and filled with incredible imagery. They got it right to call it "an illustrated walk through Biblical history and culture". A really cool thing that came with my version is a bonus CD-ROM that contains searchable NIV text and most of the photographs, maps and charts including within the pages of the print Bible.
With my background of Religious Studies, this Bible reads like a fascinating text book to me. The kind that you would definitely not sell back to the book store at the end of your term. It does not matter how many times you pick up this Bible, every time there is something fantastic and new. This would be an incredible addition to any homeschooler's library or just any Bible student in general. I cannot recommend it highly enough. It is very thick, and the only thing that I would change if I were to buy it again, is that I would buy a leatherbound edition. But all and all, I love it.
June 10, 2010
this is my first study bible ever and i am loving it. i looked at a bunch of different ones in the store and this seemed to be a style i really liked. lots of info, history, facts, maps. it is so chock full of information, you don't get very far very fast! but it pulls in all the most recent archaeological info related to whatever you're reading. it's extremely interesting and i think gives a much broader and deeper understanding of what you're reading.
the one thing i don't like so far is the design of bible. there is so much packed in there that the type is rather small. they've made the background of all the pages look like an aged parchment or something, which reduces the contrast with the type and makes it harder to read. i get the concept, but it's a little overdone.
highly recommend.
the one thing i don't like so far is the design of bible. there is so much packed in there that the type is rather small. they've made the background of all the pages look like an aged parchment or something, which reduces the contrast with the type and makes it harder to read. i get the concept, but it's a little overdone.
highly recommend.
no-longer-reading
January 25, 2009I've never read the Bible--none of the New Testament, and in Sunday school I only learned stories of the Torah without any real first-hand reading of it. So a year or so ago I decided once and for all to buy the thing and read it.
Have you ever tried to buy a Bible? Which version to choose, which version to choose. I've always been fascinated by the archeological and historical basis of the Bible, and I was a lot more comfortable buying and reading the Bible with an intellectualizing rationale in my head, plus this version is supposed to have plain language for contemporary times, so I choose this version. Here's part of how the introduction explains it:
The role of Biblical archaeology as a hermeneutical tool is invaluable in situations in which cultural allusions and settings have in the past plainly alluded us--simply because the context belonged to another, completely "foreign," place and time. (quotes theirs, and, yes, I had to look up "hermeneutical" too.)
So as for the version, it provides some helpful maps of the ancient world and some interesting theories as to where key events occurred and what certain items, customs, and other elements looked like based on archaeological evidence. But mostly, the explanations of pottery, ruins, and the like end with an assertion to the effect of "This proves that God was truly present" or "This proves that these holy acts really happened." Those assertions aren't convincing to me and are just sort of distracting--I don't see the connection they're making from scientific surmising to breathless reverence--but what would one expect from the authors, who are seminarians, and I do appreciate their dedication.
And as far as the content itself, the Bible...well, I'm still only at the end of Exodus (after a year...er, it's slow going OK? And it's not really a book the size or nature of which I'd like to take on the train for commuter reading), but, so far, it honestly reads as something that is from a profoundly alien place. The norms conveyed are ones of violence, senselessness, deviousness, and hostility toward women, and I feel no connection whatsoever with such an inconsistent, cruel, violent, unpredictable, arbitrary deity. I'm trying to read more deeply to glean other insights from it, and I really want to understand the power this collection of stories holds for so many people, but so far...no dice.
I'm wondering if the New Testament is where a lot of people connect because of the message of love and peace and whatnot. The Old Testament was never really known for its warm fuzzies. For this, I can't understand why Jewish folks and my own Jewish upbringing was so nonjudgmental and generous. It's certainly nothing the rabbis get from Genesis or Exodus, yeesh.
Have you ever tried to buy a Bible? Which version to choose, which version to choose. I've always been fascinated by the archeological and historical basis of the Bible, and I was a lot more comfortable buying and reading the Bible with an intellectualizing rationale in my head, plus this version is supposed to have plain language for contemporary times, so I choose this version. Here's part of how the introduction explains it:
The role of Biblical archaeology as a hermeneutical tool is invaluable in situations in which cultural allusions and settings have in the past plainly alluded us--simply because the context belonged to another, completely "foreign," place and time. (quotes theirs, and, yes, I had to look up "hermeneutical" too.)
So as for the version, it provides some helpful maps of the ancient world and some interesting theories as to where key events occurred and what certain items, customs, and other elements looked like based on archaeological evidence. But mostly, the explanations of pottery, ruins, and the like end with an assertion to the effect of "This proves that God was truly present" or "This proves that these holy acts really happened." Those assertions aren't convincing to me and are just sort of distracting--I don't see the connection they're making from scientific surmising to breathless reverence--but what would one expect from the authors, who are seminarians, and I do appreciate their dedication.
And as far as the content itself, the Bible...well, I'm still only at the end of Exodus (after a year...er, it's slow going OK? And it's not really a book the size or nature of which I'd like to take on the train for commuter reading), but, so far, it honestly reads as something that is from a profoundly alien place. The norms conveyed are ones of violence, senselessness, deviousness, and hostility toward women, and I feel no connection whatsoever with such an inconsistent, cruel, violent, unpredictable, arbitrary deity. I'm trying to read more deeply to glean other insights from it, and I really want to understand the power this collection of stories holds for so many people, but so far...no dice.
I'm wondering if the New Testament is where a lot of people connect because of the message of love and peace and whatnot. The Old Testament was never really known for its warm fuzzies. For this, I can't understand why Jewish folks and my own Jewish upbringing was so nonjudgmental and generous. It's certainly nothing the rabbis get from Genesis or Exodus, yeesh.
May 5, 2007
Although from my limited research, I would lean toward the ESV Bible, this is an incredible work. I had the opportunity to study archaeology in Israel under Todd Bolen, and many of his pictures are included in this edition. (for more of his work: www.bibleplaces.com) This book includes a variety of articles highlighting significant archeaological finds, debates, and culturally appropriate annotations. It has cast a lot of light on many Biblical texts for me in my own personal study, especially in the Old Testament. Its also helped to sharpen my understanding of the ongoing war for Biblical historicity.
June 23, 2017
I love Biblical archaeology and I love seeing how the events in the Bible actually took place in real time and space. The little historical previews here in this study Bible are a great introduction to the world of historical Biblical reality. I've read through the Bible multiple times now, but the new information in this edition makes me excited to read it once more.
December 23, 2022
I love reading my Bible and this year I wanted to read translations I have not read before. Now I probably had read the NIV before but reading it with archeological helps was great. Now some of the archeologists did not seem to believe in the supernatural nature of the Bible which makes me wonder why they were included. Not that non-Christian voices don’t count but it seemed an odd choice for this Bible. That being said it did not take away from the whole experience.
November 21, 2016
This Study Bible has enriched my life. This has amazing historical facts scattered throughout the entire book. The cover is a rich burgundy color with white stitching and the pictures inside are beautiful. The Cultural and Historical information is made easy to understand. I have read through this entire Bible and I am on my second time through it. I will never tire from reading this Bible.
September 16, 2008
This is an awesome Bible!!! If you are into archaeology like me, then this Bible is for you. it has lots of side stories about recent archaeological finds that coincide with stories in the Bible. Really informative and neat to have a glimpse of life back then.
July 29, 2008
I try to read from this daily. Not only does it have all the scriptures, it has all sorts of great historical notes from the beginning of time to through the life of the apostles.
September 23, 2017
This is an excellent resource that I'm sure I will refer back to often and is now my main paper copy of the Bible that I will use.
July 17, 2015
--Edit 2015--
I first read this while still an Evangelical Christian and I found the commentary helpful (it probably helped keep me as one longer). Since that time my views have changed and I dislike the commentary. For example in Genesis evolution is immediately discussed, the commentary tells us that the bible allows for variations in "kinds" of animals but the bible doesn't allow for a species to evolve into a different one. I'm not too sure why this is mentioned here, but it quickly shows the authors bias and sets the tone for the entire commentary. You'll sometimes get mentions of scholarly opinion (for example the fact that many scholars question the Pauline authorship of the Pastorals), but this is only so they can counter argue these viewpoints with why the traditional fundamentalist view is more likely correct. Anyways I originally rated this 5 stars but reading parts again I'll have to lower my score. Note: the rating isn't related to the bible itself or the translation.
--Original Review--
I decided this year to read the bible again and I choose this one because of my interest in the ancient culture and archeology related to it. I actually really ended up liking the NIV version of the bible as well. This is the first bible that I’ve actually read the all of the articles and study notes and it was well worth while. Especially helpful were the notes putting the prophets into context.
This is ultimately somewhat conservative in its approach. It still points out things such as other Near Eastern Religious similarities but then it provided a defense as to why and how the bible is different. This might be confusing for a new Christian, but I think it’s important that these questions are presented so they don’t come as a shock later on, especially when done in a less apologetic fashion.
My main complaints with this are that I really think this bible could benefit with 15-20 pages of articles from the intertestamental period to give a better introduction to the New Testament. Also the notes can be a little brief and a lot is left out (although due to the size of this already I can understand why). Overall this is a pretty great study bible and I’d highly recommend it.
I first read this while still an Evangelical Christian and I found the commentary helpful (it probably helped keep me as one longer). Since that time my views have changed and I dislike the commentary. For example in Genesis evolution is immediately discussed, the commentary tells us that the bible allows for variations in "kinds" of animals but the bible doesn't allow for a species to evolve into a different one. I'm not too sure why this is mentioned here, but it quickly shows the authors bias and sets the tone for the entire commentary. You'll sometimes get mentions of scholarly opinion (for example the fact that many scholars question the Pauline authorship of the Pastorals), but this is only so they can counter argue these viewpoints with why the traditional fundamentalist view is more likely correct. Anyways I originally rated this 5 stars but reading parts again I'll have to lower my score. Note: the rating isn't related to the bible itself or the translation.
--Original Review--
I decided this year to read the bible again and I choose this one because of my interest in the ancient culture and archeology related to it. I actually really ended up liking the NIV version of the bible as well. This is the first bible that I’ve actually read the all of the articles and study notes and it was well worth while. Especially helpful were the notes putting the prophets into context.
This is ultimately somewhat conservative in its approach. It still points out things such as other Near Eastern Religious similarities but then it provided a defense as to why and how the bible is different. This might be confusing for a new Christian, but I think it’s important that these questions are presented so they don’t come as a shock later on, especially when done in a less apologetic fashion.
My main complaints with this are that I really think this bible could benefit with 15-20 pages of articles from the intertestamental period to give a better introduction to the New Testament. Also the notes can be a little brief and a lot is left out (although due to the size of this already I can understand why). Overall this is a pretty great study bible and I’d highly recommend it.
April 14, 2012
Chock full of cultural and historical notes, gorgeous photography, maps and tables, this bible is an excellent way to gain understanding of scripture that may otherwise entirely escape one's notice. It also adds insight to common misperceptions about many scriptures. One way this is done is put put things in perspective and remind the reader not to measure actions against today's standards, but the standards of the time it was written. Weights, measurements, monetary values are all explained in a way that allows the reader to translate and compare it to todays standards.
A woman gives up or donates a bolt of purple fabric. Big deal right? You can get anything from burlap to silk on clearance in any fabric store. In biblical times, spices, fabrics, dyes and many other materials were precious commodities. Aside from purple being associated with royalty (an indication of social standing to even possess it), to give up a large bolt of purple is akin to your average J.C. Penney shopper giving up the one and only piece of Versace or Prada they have.
A camel going through a needle? NOT going to happen. Again, there is information on architecture and mountain passes that will offer a broader insight as to what was meant by that scripture. A cracked jar? So what, toss it in the recycle bin. This bible gives insights to different types of containers, their importance in everyday life and the value of the craftsmen that produced them.
This bible also offers arguments against widely held beliefs and doesn't insist on being "right" about everything. The Levitical portion demonstrates that very well by offering a history of speculations and educated guesses and calling them just that. When they don't know for sure, the say so. It cites resources and invites the reader to want to know more.
Some may argue that it's not a five star bible. This body of work does not claim to be a study of Hebrew and Greek language, and it's not. It's a complete biblical text supported by Arcaeological research. I buy a new version of the bible every other year or so unless I see a good deal in a used book store. The next one will be specific to original language and text.
A woman gives up or donates a bolt of purple fabric. Big deal right? You can get anything from burlap to silk on clearance in any fabric store. In biblical times, spices, fabrics, dyes and many other materials were precious commodities. Aside from purple being associated with royalty (an indication of social standing to even possess it), to give up a large bolt of purple is akin to your average J.C. Penney shopper giving up the one and only piece of Versace or Prada they have.
A camel going through a needle? NOT going to happen. Again, there is information on architecture and mountain passes that will offer a broader insight as to what was meant by that scripture. A cracked jar? So what, toss it in the recycle bin. This bible gives insights to different types of containers, their importance in everyday life and the value of the craftsmen that produced them.
This bible also offers arguments against widely held beliefs and doesn't insist on being "right" about everything. The Levitical portion demonstrates that very well by offering a history of speculations and educated guesses and calling them just that. When they don't know for sure, the say so. It cites resources and invites the reader to want to know more.
Some may argue that it's not a five star bible. This body of work does not claim to be a study of Hebrew and Greek language, and it's not. It's a complete biblical text supported by Arcaeological research. I buy a new version of the bible every other year or so unless I see a good deal in a used book store. The next one will be specific to original language and text.
August 21, 2011
I have a fair amount of skepticism for the barrage of specialized bibles that have been coming out lately. The apologetics bible, the reformation bible, and on and on. I thought we had enough of this crap already, the couple's devotional bible, the teen study bible, the soldier's bible, the chicken soup for the bible's soul edition, or whatever. Then I saw this new addition to a long list specialized bibles in my church library and checked it out. I have got to say I am pretty impressed.
I honestly didn't think that there was enough archeological evidence surviving to fill the pages of the entirety of the bible. Clearly I was wrong. The editors creatively fill the pages of this Bible with pictures, factoids, and some pretty decent analysis of topics relevant to the biblical text. For example, I was curious about what one would put as archeological evidence for the book of genesis. I turned to the appropriate pages and was pleased to find other ancient near eastern literature, like what was the role of the serpent in other contemporary cultures at the time. Good stuff and enlightening. The pictures are fun as well, what did a roman centurion's helmet look like? Well there's a picture for ya! Other fun facts were present that I was surprised to find, for example, a LXX use in the NT. These are well written and accessible for everyone.
I thought that such a bible wouldn't have a broad enough audience to be published but I had a pastor not long ago ask me for a place that he could go to to find quick and dirty archeological blurbs on biblical times, places and artifacts that he could use to liven up sermons. I listed some book off that I had dipped into and he thought they were generally too academic or detailed or not his tastes to be worth his time. I recommended this and he was pretty interested and found it helpful. That pastor and laypeople that are into this kind of thing are the choice audience for this bible. I am glad that it has graced the shelves of all major books stores.
I honestly didn't think that there was enough archeological evidence surviving to fill the pages of the entirety of the bible. Clearly I was wrong. The editors creatively fill the pages of this Bible with pictures, factoids, and some pretty decent analysis of topics relevant to the biblical text. For example, I was curious about what one would put as archeological evidence for the book of genesis. I turned to the appropriate pages and was pleased to find other ancient near eastern literature, like what was the role of the serpent in other contemporary cultures at the time. Good stuff and enlightening. The pictures are fun as well, what did a roman centurion's helmet look like? Well there's a picture for ya! Other fun facts were present that I was surprised to find, for example, a LXX use in the NT. These are well written and accessible for everyone.
I thought that such a bible wouldn't have a broad enough audience to be published but I had a pastor not long ago ask me for a place that he could go to to find quick and dirty archeological blurbs on biblical times, places and artifacts that he could use to liven up sermons. I listed some book off that I had dipped into and he thought they were generally too academic or detailed or not his tastes to be worth his time. I recommended this and he was pretty interested and found it helpful. That pastor and laypeople that are into this kind of thing are the choice audience for this bible. I am glad that it has graced the shelves of all major books stores.
July 15, 2011
I just received this Bible for Mother's Day. My goal is to read the entire Bible, commentary, articles and text. I will now read this side-by-side with the African Bible Commentary. After I finish the African Bible Commentary, I will continue in this Bible to cover the entire work.
The commentary and articles are EXCELLENT. I am thoroughly enjoying the insights into ancient culture, geography and history.
I'm disappointed in the maps in the back, I was expecting a lot more in that regard. They appear to be the standard maps given with the NIV translation. I was hoping for more detail and more geographic insight, such as maps of excavation sites in the Middle East, possibly geographic representations of the location of major archeological finds in the past 50 years, a detailed map of the Israelite conquest (as opposed to just the land division once settled), the travels and miracles of Jesus, etc.
That being said this is an excellent work of scholarship and the presentation (full color) has a high aesthetic appeal. Of course, the 60% off price we got it for also covers over a multitude of sins! :) I am looking forward to reading this Bible, and keeping it on our reference shelf to refer to in years to come.
The commentary and articles are EXCELLENT. I am thoroughly enjoying the insights into ancient culture, geography and history.
I'm disappointed in the maps in the back, I was expecting a lot more in that regard. They appear to be the standard maps given with the NIV translation. I was hoping for more detail and more geographic insight, such as maps of excavation sites in the Middle East, possibly geographic representations of the location of major archeological finds in the past 50 years, a detailed map of the Israelite conquest (as opposed to just the land division once settled), the travels and miracles of Jesus, etc.
That being said this is an excellent work of scholarship and the presentation (full color) has a high aesthetic appeal. Of course, the 60% off price we got it for also covers over a multitude of sins! :) I am looking forward to reading this Bible, and keeping it on our reference shelf to refer to in years to come.
September 11, 2007
This Bible is absolutely the most exciting study version I've ever seen! Not only is the NIV translation accurate, but easy to read and comprehend.
The archaeological articles envelope and take one back to the moment of scripture origin. Notes on the original Greek, Hebrew (& rare Arabic) script help one fully understand the full impact and intention of the text.
This Bible also includes invaluable sections such as Bible Book introductions including information about the author, cultural & historical facts, time lines, themes, an outline and more. Also included is a concordance, charts, color illustrations, chronological historic lists with references, a glossary, tables, maps and even more information in the "Helps" section.
The leather binding is of decent quality but I recommend keeping it in a quality (X-lg) study case. The paper quality is fine. Although a bit small, the type set is clear and easy to read. The articles and illustrations are remarkable.
Not only is this volume easy to use and relevant but also makes it fun to read and study the Word of God.
The archaeological articles envelope and take one back to the moment of scripture origin. Notes on the original Greek, Hebrew (& rare Arabic) script help one fully understand the full impact and intention of the text.
This Bible also includes invaluable sections such as Bible Book introductions including information about the author, cultural & historical facts, time lines, themes, an outline and more. Also included is a concordance, charts, color illustrations, chronological historic lists with references, a glossary, tables, maps and even more information in the "Helps" section.
The leather binding is of decent quality but I recommend keeping it in a quality (X-lg) study case. The paper quality is fine. Although a bit small, the type set is clear and easy to read. The articles and illustrations are remarkable.
Not only is this volume easy to use and relevant but also makes it fun to read and study the Word of God.
May 6, 2013
I bought my Bible several years ago. I had mentioned to a friend that I was gonna get a study Bible, and she, knowing how much I loved history and archaeology, recommended that I check this one out. I did, and am so happy that I got it. It has so many insights into the background of the the Bible stories, and it's got study notes as well. My Bible also has a really nice leather cover that I was able to get my name embossed into, although I think (and I could be wrong about this) that there is a hard cover version as well. I would highly recommend this particular version of the NIV to the nerdy armchair historian out there, as well as anybody that's just interested in having a little background to help explain some of the more confusing passages. It helps to give you cultural context, which, in my own journey, has been so beneficial in properly understanding scripture!
June 18, 2012
This is my favorite Bible, ever. As an analogy, let me mention my grandmother's spaghetti recipe. It was meant to be dinner, but the spaghetti sauce (with ground meat, etc.) was so good that we'd eat it like dessert. That's what this Bible is like. The articles are soooo informative -- really giving you so much cultural insight into what you're reading without giving you the commentator's particular interpretation (as with many study Bibles). Makes me want to go to Gordon-Conwell Seminary (which was largely responsible for this special edition).
July 4, 2015
This is one of the Bibles I use for in-depth study. It has great background and notes in addition to being NIV, which is the version I like best for studying. The maps are great, as is the CD that comes with and makes it easy to use. I'm not putting a "finished" date, since I use this one for studying, so go back and reference it a lot.
December 26, 2012
I have used this as a both a teaching tool and a study guide since it was first published. The companion CD includes a wealth of resources that any avid student of Scripture will find extremely useful.
March 4, 2017
This is my favorite modern version of the Bible, because of how history is interwoven into each section of the Bible. For me, reading the history of the world makes comprehending the Bible easier, more complete.
July 31, 2022
The study Bible market is, I have to say, quite interesting. Study Bibles, despite their names, are marketed toward religious individuals, almost always Christians, who want to be more religious, not necessarily students or academics who want to better understand the Bible. This archeological study Bible is no different.
While some of the facts are genuinely good—an entire page is devoted to an overview of Ancient Egyptian history—the book is noticeably biased. For instance, it uses the creationist derogatory term “evolutionist” for people who accept the scientific consensus on biology. Most of the facts are presented with a religious bias. A section discussing horses and chariots in ancient warfare concludes by saying that God bested the most high-tech weapon of the ancient world.
Some of the facts are misleading. The book says that historians are debating the Exodus, and the book devotes several pages to different theories on which path the Israelites took out of Egypt. In actuality, almost all historians agree that the Exodus didn’t happen. The “debate” is among people who reject the consensus.
Finally, some of the “facts” are completely false. The book says that Ancient Israel, under the Judges, was the only true theocracy in history because it wasn’t a dictatorship, democracy, or republic. But by that reasoning, “real” theocracy is just a type of anarchism. If so, there have been religious communes which were theocracies. And never mind the fact that outside the Bible, there’s no evidence the Judges even existed.
This book is great if you’re a Christian and want to strengthen your faith via pseudohistory and cherry-picked archeology.
If you’re not a Christian, you’ll be subtly told that you’re mistaken and that all experts agree that the Bible is the word of God. That being said, if you remain aware of the bias, the book does offer nice insights into ancient history. However, there are shorter, cheaper, and more accurate books for anyone desiring an unbiased book on Biblical history and archaeology.
(To be fair, I read only Genesis and Exodus. I was a Christian for 22+ years before becoming an atheist, so I didn’t see a need to reread the entire Bible yet another time.)
While some of the facts are genuinely good—an entire page is devoted to an overview of Ancient Egyptian history—the book is noticeably biased. For instance, it uses the creationist derogatory term “evolutionist” for people who accept the scientific consensus on biology. Most of the facts are presented with a religious bias. A section discussing horses and chariots in ancient warfare concludes by saying that God bested the most high-tech weapon of the ancient world.
Some of the facts are misleading. The book says that historians are debating the Exodus, and the book devotes several pages to different theories on which path the Israelites took out of Egypt. In actuality, almost all historians agree that the Exodus didn’t happen. The “debate” is among people who reject the consensus.
Finally, some of the “facts” are completely false. The book says that Ancient Israel, under the Judges, was the only true theocracy in history because it wasn’t a dictatorship, democracy, or republic. But by that reasoning, “real” theocracy is just a type of anarchism. If so, there have been religious communes which were theocracies. And never mind the fact that outside the Bible, there’s no evidence the Judges even existed.
This book is great if you’re a Christian and want to strengthen your faith via pseudohistory and cherry-picked archeology.
If you’re not a Christian, you’ll be subtly told that you’re mistaken and that all experts agree that the Bible is the word of God. That being said, if you remain aware of the bias, the book does offer nice insights into ancient history. However, there are shorter, cheaper, and more accurate books for anyone desiring an unbiased book on Biblical history and archaeology.
(To be fair, I read only Genesis and Exodus. I was a Christian for 22+ years before becoming an atheist, so I didn’t see a need to reread the entire Bible yet another time.)
June 9, 2022
Why another bible? This is a bible I have had for years. It was a gift when I received it and continues to be a gift in my daily spiritual walk. I use it as a reference and comparative studies guide now. It's a large book, and heavy at five pounds. Not a purse bible then. It is one I recommended to my mother and a close friend. When my mom passed away, I found it open on her side table. This bible has much meaning and has been a joy to read over the years.
Now to the basics: print is small but legible , archaeological information with charts and photos are throughout the entire bible, chapters have background information and outlines, study helps section in back of book give even more cross references and information, maps included. There is also a disc. I have this book also in kindle version for easy reference when traveling or at the coffee shop. Highly recommend this bible for any believer who wants to dig deeper into the bible and historical record of God working in humanity.
Now to the basics: print is small but legible , archaeological information with charts and photos are throughout the entire bible, chapters have background information and outlines, study helps section in back of book give even more cross references and information, maps included. There is also a disc. I have this book also in kindle version for easy reference when traveling or at the coffee shop. Highly recommend this bible for any believer who wants to dig deeper into the bible and historical record of God working in humanity.
October 23, 2020
A fantastic addition to any biblical study. Being a person who has throughly read multiple versions, some more than once, I place this with the Message version as being my two favorites other than KIV. The archaelogical findings, history and additional details truly compliment the Bible and the history of those times when our scriptures were written. To be able to have this informative knowledge at hand along with study of the chapters and verses is beneficial to any student of biblical study.
The Kindle version left me somewhat disappointed with the quality of the historic places and archeological findings. Being of such quality did not allow for the opportunity of enlarging the pictures and maps. Maps were of very pour quality, but served their job. The hardbound version is of much better quality and the version I would recommend.
The Kindle version left me somewhat disappointed with the quality of the historic places and archeological findings. Being of such quality did not allow for the opportunity of enlarging the pictures and maps. Maps were of very pour quality, but served their job. The hardbound version is of much better quality and the version I would recommend.
January 20, 2023
What can I say? It's the Bible, but its also a wealth of tidbits of archaeology and glimpses into the cultures of the eras in which the books of the Bible take place. If you're a history junkie and appreciate knowing the context of the stories within, you'll like this version.
I also appreciate its novel layout. The text is not formatted in the standard two-column text but replicates the visual style that may have been on the original documents (and by original, I mean the scrolls) with a lot of white space around it. Especially around the genealogies (if you read the Bible, you know what I'm talking about).
That said, it's not as thorough in the footnoting as my straight-up NIV Study Bible, so I do end up using them side by side.
I also appreciate its novel layout. The text is not formatted in the standard two-column text but replicates the visual style that may have been on the original documents (and by original, I mean the scrolls) with a lot of white space around it. Especially around the genealogies (if you read the Bible, you know what I'm talking about).
That said, it's not as thorough in the footnoting as my straight-up NIV Study Bible, so I do end up using them side by side.
October 26, 2024
Useful Study Bible
I recommend this study Bible for providing a better understanding of the biblical text’s background. As I read through the Bible I found the articles interleaved with the text helpful. They would address subjects such as the geographical, historical, or cultural contexts of the text. The articles were not overly long and thus did not disrupt the ongoing biblical narrative too much; mainly just enough information to add insights into the text at hand. I also liked the book introductions especially the pointed theme summaries and the topical outlines. I found these gave brief, but helpful, insights into the following text. Overly long introductions are often hard for me retain and focus on the actual biblical text at the same time.
I recommend this study Bible for providing a better understanding of the biblical text’s background. As I read through the Bible I found the articles interleaved with the text helpful. They would address subjects such as the geographical, historical, or cultural contexts of the text. The articles were not overly long and thus did not disrupt the ongoing biblical narrative too much; mainly just enough information to add insights into the text at hand. I also liked the book introductions especially the pointed theme summaries and the topical outlines. I found these gave brief, but helpful, insights into the following text. Overly long introductions are often hard for me retain and focus on the actual biblical text at the same time.
January 4, 2025
I appreciate all of the verse notes, testament introductions, chapter introductions, sidebars, articles, mini-articles, charts, glossary, and maps within this study bible. I love all of the photos of archaeological artifacts. All of these informational snippets help bring clarity to the text.
A few drawbacks are that I wish I had a large print version and if you get the hardback version, the spine wears out quite fast. I am not sure if there is a large print version of this bible, but it would be great! I also am not sure if they are still printing this version of the bible. It would be cool if they did though. I have looked for a large print version of this particular bible, but was not successful in finding one.
A few drawbacks are that I wish I had a large print version and if you get the hardback version, the spine wears out quite fast. I am not sure if there is a large print version of this bible, but it would be great! I also am not sure if they are still printing this version of the bible. It would be cool if they did though. I have looked for a large print version of this particular bible, but was not successful in finding one.
November 11, 2025
For years, I've been listening to the audio Bible a little bit every day, and then, when it ends, just starting it over again. I've gone back and forth between the ESV and the NIV, and during this listen through the Bible, I was very inconsistent with my daily listening.
It usually takes about 5 months to listen to the whole Bible if you listen for 30 minutes a day. This time through, it took me 16 months.
It usually takes about 5 months to listen to the whole Bible if you listen for 30 minutes a day. This time through, it took me 16 months.
December 31, 2017
I've read the Bible through several times, but I found reading this one interesting. The historical connections and discussions of archaeological finds enlightened my reading. I took 2 years to read this time so I could read all the notes and articles. I read the New Testament last year and the Old Testament this year.
August 3, 2020
They lost me when they said the story of Moses was “factual”
You can believe the Bible is truth as a part of your faith, but it is not a primary source historical document that no scholar can dispute. I would have rather this been completely unbiased and scholarly.
There’s a difference between fact and faith.
You can believe the Bible is truth as a part of your faith, but it is not a primary source historical document that no scholar can dispute. I would have rather this been completely unbiased and scholarly.
There’s a difference between fact and faith.
January 21, 2021
Perhaps my favorite Bible to date! Throughout you will find history tidbits and articles that give cultural and historical perspectives/insight. That alone separates it from all other Bibles I have read and own.
I have the VENETIAN BROWN Renaissance Fine Leather edition. I love the feel of holding it.
I have the VENETIAN BROWN Renaissance Fine Leather edition. I love the feel of holding it.
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