The Bible
The Bible is a collection of many books, which was historically written by many authors over many years. It contains historical information, historical narratives, laws, poetry, wisdom, apocalyptic literature, epistles and the gospels. Many biblical concepts are often explained by metaphors and symbolism.
Currently, there are many Bible Translations available today, which differ in the use of language, style, source text.
How to read the Bible
Unlike English, both Hebrew and Greek does not have lowercase letters and in both Hebrew and Greek the same word could have multiple meanings depending on the context. Therefore, it is up to the translators interpretation to decide how a scripture should be translated, which is often influenced by the church denomination that sponsored the translation. Thankfully because of the repetitive Hebrew style of writing and different witnesses from the Bible times we have a way to cross-check certain important concepts.
In addition, the Bible was divided into Testaments, chapters, verses and divided by titles written by the translators which were not originally part of the source manuscripts. This turned the Bible into an address book for the sake of ease to find specific scriptures so that people could have a reference and read the same verses. But with this convenience, the Bible was also turned into a very dangerous tool where one could cherry-pick certain verses to proof a view that is false.
Also note that most of the modern Bibles are not in chronological order, because the Bible translators choose to rather group similar books together, than keeping the chronological order because the time period of some books overlap.
Therefore, when one study the Bible, one needs to consider:
- Who wrote the scripture? (For example an unknown author or a respected prophet or apostle?)
- Who was the intended audience? (For example the ancient Israelites, the Greek, the Romans, etc. ?)
- When was it written? (Chronological order of events often matters and explain why people behaved a certain way)
- What was the culture? (Which could explain "unusual" idioms or reactions of the people)
- Who's words is it? (Some arguments or false accusations are recorded that may include false statements so that we can learn from their errors)
- Ignore, title, chapter and verse divisions as it did not exist in the original manuscripts.
- Ignore, capital letters or the lack thereof as it did not exist in the original manuscripts.
- What is the context? (Sometimes important detail is left out because the author assumes the reader already as context)
- Should the scripture be understood literally? (Usually everything should be taken literally unless the context makes it clear that we are reading a poem, song, vision, prophecy, parable, metaphor or idiom)
- Note that unlike the English word for "God", in both Greek and Hebrew could also mean an important person. Usually translators translated it as "lord" when it refers to a human, but there are cases where the translators incorrectly translated it to "God" when it was not the Almighty God that was referenced. Therefore, the context is important to consider which "god" is addressed.
- Note that God's identifying name was replaced with "Lord" in most English Bibles. Some translations maintained the uppercase "LORD" to mark this change. However, this could still lead to confusion if the context is unclear because important humans or angelic beings are also considered "lords".
- If in doubt use an Interlinear bible to look up the original texts and considered alternative meanings of the words.
- Avoid relaying on "bible" tales which were written to entertain children. They are often shorten, oversimplified and may even be deceiving.
Commentaries, creeds, sermons, Christian books, apps, videos and websites (even this one you are currently reading) are based on human interpretations. They should inspire you to turn to the Bible, but should not be used to replace the Bible. It is your own responsibility to search the scriptures and ask for God's Spirit to guide and reveal the truth.
Download
Some recommended electric bibles that you could download or access on your device.
Please note that these apps and the content that these apps provide are not affiliated with us. Use your own discretion when you browse or use their resources.
Bible SA
Features:
- All bibles are free
- Provide bibles in South African languages like: Afrikaans, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi, Setswana, Xitsonga
- Can read bibles without internet (offline)
Download the free app for:
Alkitab / Quick Bible
Features:
- All bibles are free
- Provide bibles in international languages
- Can read bibles without internet (offline)
- The software is open source (you can inspect or change the source code if you like)
- With a bit of effort, you can compile your own bible and use it in your app
Download the free app for:
Olive Tree Bible
Features:
- Provide bibles in international languages
- Can read bibles without internet (offline)
- Some bible translations are free
- Can purchase additional non-free bible translations
Download the app for:
You Version
Features:
- Provide bibles in international languages
- You can only read the bible with an active internet connection (online)
- All bible translations are free
- Includes a very wide variety of translations even ones that you would normally have to purchase
Download the free app for:
Bible Hub
Features:
- Provide bibles in international languages
- You can only read the bible with an active internet connection (online)
- Includes both free and commercial content
- Includes a very wide variety of translations
Download the app for:
Bible Gateway
Features:
- Provide bibles in international languages
- You can only read the bible with an active internet connection (online)
- Includes both free and commercial content
- Includes a very wide variety of translations
Download the app for:
