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How Many Different Types of Bibles are There?
Aaron Lewendon - Eden Bibles & Bible Study Specialist
There is no one kind of Bible.
When it comes to the Bible, there's an incredible variety all over the world. And no, I'm not counting books called "The Soup Bible" or the "Bake Your Own Sourdough Bible". I'm talking about the Bible. The Holy Bible. The foundational text for Christians all across the planet.
The main types of Bibles are categorised by their purpose, such as Study Bibles for in-depth notes, Journaling Bibles for creative reflection, Large Print Bibles for readability, and Compact Bibles for portability.
The Bible speaks to a range of denominations, languages, age groups, and personal preferences. With over 450 translations and hundreds of features to suit how you read, there really is a Bible for everyone.
Let's explore the fascinating world of Bibles!
First, let's look at the different types of Bibles you might read depending on what kind of Church you attend (if you attend one).
Different Bibles by Denomination
Christian denominations often have distinctive Bibles that reflect their theological perspectives and traditions. Here are the three main types of Bibles across denominational lines:
- Protestant Bibles: These are what most people might think of when you say The Bible. The Protestant Bible has 66 books, starting with Genesis and ending with Revelation. Popular translations include the King James Version, the New International Version, and the English Standard Version.
- Catholic Bibles: These include the Deuterocanonical books, often referred to as the Apocrypha. Catholic Bibles have a total of 73 books. The 7 additional books in the Catholic Bible are: Tobias, Judith, Baruch, Ecclesiasticus, Wisdom, First and Second Maccabees and also the Greek additions to Esther and Daniel.
- Orthodox Bibles: These Bibles, used by Eastern Orthodox Christians, include books not found in the Catholic or Protestant canons, such as 3 Maccabees and Psalm 151. Orthodox Bibles often feature upwards of 75 books. The Septuagint (LXX) is a significant ancient Greek translation often used.
Each of these types of Bible offers different ways of understanding Christianity's history.
But it's not only the number of books that determines the different types of Bibles. The translation of these books led to an explosion in the different types of Bibles in the world.
Different Bible Translations
Few people alive today speak Aramaic and Greek and Hebrew. So, naturally, some help is required. The Bible has been translated to be accessible to as many people in the world as possible.
Let's break down the numbers:
- English Translations: According to the Bible Project, there are over 900 English translations of the Bible! Each aims to cater to various reading preferences. You can find Bibles from the poetic cadence of the King James Version to the contemporary language of The Message.
- International Translations: The Bible has been translated into over 3,000 languages worldwide (for reference, there are about 7000 spoken languages in the world - so we aren't even halfway done!). This monumental effort meant that people from many cultural backgrounds are able to read and understand the Bible.
These translations range from 'word-for-word' to 'thought-for-thought' translations. Essentially, taking you from accurate to understandable. These all provide a range of options for readers to choose based on their needs and preferences.
But this all relates to the types of Bibles grown-ups read. What about the younger generations?
Different Types of Bibles for Children
Introducing children to the Bible can be a delightful experience with the right version. Children's Bibles are designed to be engaging and understandable for young minds. Here are some popular types of Bibles for children:
- Picture Bibles: These are filled with colourful illustrations and simplified text, perfect for younger children.
- Storybook Bibles: These focus on the narratives within the Bible, retelling stories in an accessible and exciting way.
- Devotional Bibles for Kids: These include age-appropriate devotions alongside the biblical text, encouraging daily reading and reflection.
Children's Bibles often feature interactive elements, such as puzzles, activities, and questions. More modern Bibles will link to online resources with QR codes and YouTube playlists.
Both of these are considered Bible features, which leads us to the final way that you can discover different types of Bibles.
Different Types of Bibles You Can Read Today
Modern Bibles come with a variety of features designed to enhance the reading and study experience. Some make the text easier to see and some open up the world of God's word. Here are some notable types of Bible features:
Bibles for Deeper Understanding: Study Bibles
Study Bibles include extensive notes, maps, charts, and articles to help readers gain deeper insights into the text. Examples are the NIV Study Bible and the ESV Study Bible. Shop Study Bibles
Bibles for Creative Reflection: Journaling Bibles
Journaling Bibles feature wide margins or dedicated spaces for readers to write. This could be notes, reflections, or a prayer. There is room for whatever your heart desires. The ESV Journaling Bible is a popular choice for journalers, as are the Bibles designed by Hosanna Revival. Shop Journaling Bibles
Bibles for Daily Life: Devotional Bibles
Devotional Bibles structure the text around a reading plan. A great way to make sure you read every day. Examples include the NIV Women's Devotional Bible and the Life Application Study Bible. Shop Devotional Bibles
Bibles for Comfortable Reading: Large Print Bibles
It's not always easy to make out what the Bible says, but Larger Print Bibles work to make the reading experience as comfortable on the eyes as you need. With a bigger typeface, the range of Large Print Bibles on offer today eases your time in scripture. Shop Large Print Bibles
Bibles for Life On-the-Go: Compact & Thinline Bibles
We aren't just called to be Christians at Church. You are a believer wherever you go, and Compact Bibles are made to be with you every step of the way. Thinline Bibles reduce the width of the Bible, whilst Compact and Pocket Bibles reduce the overall size of the binding. Both make it easier to fit the Bible into everyday life. Shop Compact Bibles or Shop Thinline Bibles
Bibles for Wider Understanding: Parallel Bibles
These present two or more translations side by side for comparison. This allows you to see how different versions interpret the same passages. Shop Parallel Bibles
These features cater to various reading styles and spiritual practices. They are also a great aspect to consider when buying a gift Bible. To help you find your perfect Bible (without needing to remember the different types of Bibles), we've made an easy-to-use Bible Finder.
It's the perfect way to find the right Bible every time.
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