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As you look to deepen your relationship with Scripture, you might find yourself deciding between two of the most popular types of Bibles available today: the Study Bible and the Journaling Bible. Both are incredible tools designed to enrich your reading, but they serve two very different purposes.
One is like having a knowledgeable guide sitting beside you, explaining context and answering your questions. The other is like having a personal journal, giving you the space to reflect, create, and respond to what you've read.
So, how do you choose? Are you looking for a Bible that will help you understand Scripture, or one that will help you respond to it?
This simple guide will clearly explain the difference between a Journaling Bible and a Study Bible, helping you choose the perfect companion for your faith journey.
The main difference between a Journaling Bible and a Study Bible is their primary purpose: Study Bibles are designed to help you understand the text with expert notes and articles, while Journaling Bibles provide wide margins for your own personal notes, reflections, and creativity.
At a Glance: Key Differences
The Study Bible: Your Guide to Deeper Understanding
A Study Bible is a complete library in a single book. Its main goal is to help you understand the historical context, theological themes, and practical application of the Bible. Alongside the full scriptural text, it is packed with helpful resources written by trusted scholars.
Key features often include:
- Verse-by-verse notes: Explanations and clarifications at the bottom of each page.
- Book introductions: Detailed overviews of each book's author, theme, and outline.
- Concordance and maps: Tools to help you find words and locate biblical places.
- Articles and character profiles: In-depth essays on important topics and people.
A Study Bible is the right choice for you if:
- You are new to the Bible and have a lot of questions.
- You want to move beyond simple reading into deeper study.
- You want a single, all-in-one resource for your biblical learning.
Our Top Recommendation for a Study Bible:
NIV Life Application Study Bible, Fully Revised Edition
★★★★★
"Bought this as a gift for an adult baptism. It has features I was not expecting, including a family tree page, as in an old family bible. And a presentation page. Plus, of course, all the study features. I was expecting good. This was better than good. All in all, delightful."
The Journaling Bible: Your Canvas for Personal Reflection
A Journaling Bible is designed to give you space. Its primary goal is to provide a place for you to record your personal journey through Scripture. It invites you to write down your thoughts, prayers, questions, and creative responses right on the page, next to the verses that inspire them.
Key features often include:
- Wide, lined margins: The defining feature, providing ample space for notes.
- Single-column layout: This format creates more space and a more natural reading experience.
- Thicker, high-quality paper: Specially designed to reduce ink bleeding from pens and highlighters.
A Journaling Bible is the right choice for you if:
- You love to take notes, write down prayers, or underline key verses.
- You are an artist who enjoys Bible journaling, drawing, or hand-lettering.
- You find that writing helps you process and remember what you've read.
Our Top Recommendation for a Journaling Bible:
NLT Hosanna Revival Journaling Bible
★★★★★
"I had kept seeing this Bible on Instagram but could only find it available to buy in the US, so delivery was expensive. So I was delighted to see this now available on Eden! Firstly, the Bible looks and feels beautiful. The NLT translation is an easy to read Bible, and the font looks great and is clear. There is space alongside every page to make notes. The paper is good quality and pen and highlighters do not bleed through. Totally recommend."
Conclusion: Learn or Reflect?
Choosing between a Study Bible and a Journaling Bible comes down to your primary goal.
- If your main goal is to learn and understand the text on a deeper level, choose a Study Bible.
- If your main goal is to reflect on and respond to the text in a personal way, choose a Journaling Bible.
Of course, you don't have to choose just one! Many people find that using both a Study Bible for their in-depth learning and a Journaling Bible for their daily devotions is the perfect combination.
Our Bible Finder tool can help you find the right Bible in just a few clicks! Try the Bible Finder ►
Still not sure which Bible is right for you? You can learn more in our complete, free 97-page ebook, 'How to Choose Your Bible'.
