The Bible Companion: A Handbook for Beginners

Rating:
Summary: A wonderful introduction to the Bible
Review: This brilliant little book is a godsend! Witherup answers most of the common Bible questions while providing a wealth of information in a compact format. Written from a Catholic perspective (the Apocryphal books are included and the book carries the Nihil Obstat and Imprimatur), it is a wonderful introduction for any reader who wants to explore the Bible. The book provides an overview of Biblical scholarship, history and modern translations along with general introductions to each book in the Bible including study tips and reading exercises. A helpful glossary is included along with appendices that compare different biblical canons, abbreviations and Jewish feasts. Best of all, Witherup leads the reader through the Bible with an ecumenical approach that radiates wisdom, insight and humanity.

Just as its title implies, this book is an excellent starting point for those who have never read the Bible. My only criticisms of the book are that it does not include an index and that it lacks any maps of lands mentioned in the Bible (like those found in any good Study Bible), but these are minor points. Also, the discussion of available Bible versions is not exhaustive, but as Witherup states in the Preface, "[t]his book aims to claim the middle ground" (p. xi). Readers searching for a more complete discussion of modern Bible translations (from a Protestant perspective) should consult Philip Comfort's "Essential Guide to Bible Versions" (Tyndale, 2000). Overall, Witherup provides far more than just a good guide or introduction. He invites the reader to enter into a life-long relationship with the Bible and lights the way to further study and prayer.

Rating:
Summary: A wonderful introduction to the Bible
Review: This brilliant little book is a godsend! Witherup answers most of the common Bible questions while providing a wealth of information in a compact format. Written from a Catholic perspective (the Apocryphal books are included and the book carries the Nihil Obstat and Imprimatur), it is a wonderful introduction for any reader who wants to explore the Bible. The book provides an overview of Biblical scholarship, history and modern translations along with general introductions to each book in the Bible including study tips and reading exercises. A helpful glossary is included along with appendices that compare different biblical canons, abbreviations and Jewish feasts. Best of all, Witherup leads the reader through the Bible with an ecumenical approach that radiates wisdom, insight and humanity.

Just as its title implies, this book is an excellent starting point for those who have never read the Bible. My only criticisms of the book are that it does not include an index and that it lacks any maps of lands mentioned in the Bible (like those found in any good Study Bible), but these are minor points. Also, the discussion of available Bible versions is not exhaustive, but as Witherup states in the Preface, "[t]his book aims to claim the middle ground" (p. xi). Readers searching for a more complete discussion of modern Bible translations (from a Protestant perspective) should consult Philip Comfort's "Essential Guide to Bible Versions" (Tyndale, 2000). Overall, Witherup provides far more than just a good guide or introduction. He invites the reader to enter into a life-long relationship with the Bible and lights the way to further study and prayer.