Biblical Studies: Overview

Getting Started

In conducting research in biblical studies, there are several kinds of information you may need:

• Primary biblical texts in different versions and translations
• Online tools and software for performing concordance searches within biblical and contemporary texts
• Background information on the historical and cultural setting of the biblical text and reference resources on the field of biblical studies provided by dictionaries and encyclopedias
• Scholarly research on biblical texts and topics found in peer-reviewed journal articles, essay collections, and monographs
• Interpretations of biblical passages and books found in commentaries

Versions of the Bible

It is important to pay attention to the version of the Bible you are using as the basis for your studies. Each translation is an interpretation. Most faculty prefer the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) for general coursework. When doing exegetical work, you will likely want to consult more than one version.

General Resources