The Bible is the most widely read, translated and printed book in history. It has been translated, in whole or in part, into thousands of languages, including every major language of India. But for someone opening it for the first time, it can be hard to know what it actually is. Is it one book or many? Is it history, poetry or law? Who is it for?
This article gives a simple introduction.
One book made of many books
The word Bible comes from the Greek word biblia, meaning "books". That is a good description, because the Bible is really a library of 66 books bound together in one volume. These books were written by many different authors over a period of more than a thousand years, in three languages, on three continents.
Even so, Christians read the Bible as one story with one main character: God, who creates the world, rescues his people and promises to make all things new through Jesus Christ.
Two main parts
The Bible is divided into two main sections:
- The Old Testament (39 books) was written before the time of Jesus. It tells of creation, the beginnings of humanity, and God's relationship with the people of Israel, through their history, laws, songs, wisdom and prophets.
- The New Testament (27 books) was written after the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. It contains four accounts of his life (the Gospels), the history of the early church, letters to churches and individuals, and the book of Revelation.
The word testament means "covenant" or "agreement" — a reminder that the Bible is the story of God's relationship with people.
What kinds of writing are in it?
The Bible contains many types of writing:
- History, such as the stories of Abraham, Moses, David and the early church.
- Law, including the Ten Commandments.
- Poetry and songs, especially the Psalms.
- Wisdom, such as the Proverbs.
- Prophecy, messages from God through prophets.
- Gospels, accounts of the life and teaching of Jesus.
- Letters, written to guide early Christians.
- Apocalyptic writing, full of symbols, in parts of Daniel and Revelation.
Knowing which kind of writing you are reading helps you understand it.
Why do Christians call it "God's Word"?
Christians believe that the human authors of the Bible wrote under the guidance of God's Spirit, so that their words are also God's words to us. One New Testament letter says, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16, KJV). For this reason, Christians read the Bible not just as an ancient book but as God speaking today.
What is the Bible about?
At its heart, the Bible answers life's biggest questions: Who made the world? Why is there suffering and evil? Who am I? Is there hope? Its central message is that God loves the world he made, and that through Jesus Christ he offers forgiveness, new life and a restored relationship with him.
How should I start reading?
You don't need to start at page one. Many people begin with the Gospel of Mark or John, which tell the story of Jesus. Choose a translation that is easy to read, read a little each day, and ask questions as you go. Our guide to reading the Bible for the first time will help.
Summary
- The Bible is a library of 66 books, in two parts: the Old and New Testaments.
- It was written by many authors over more than a thousand years.
- It contains history, law, poetry, wisdom, prophecy, gospels and letters.
- Christians believe it is God's Word and that its central message is Jesus Christ.
Looking for a Bible? Read how to choose a Bible translation or browse our new Bibles.