The Oxford Guide to Ideas and Issues of the Bible

The Bible has been in existence for nearly 2,000 years and is often claimed to be the most published book in the world. It has undoubtedly played a central role in shaping western culture and history and it has been a great source of inspiration to many and will continue to be so in the future. Bruce M. Metzger and Michael D. Coogan have come together again to produce yet another fine, authoritative A-Z reference book on one of the many topics of interest concerning the Bible. In The Oxford Guide to Ideas and Issues of the Bible they have included approximately 270 articles, which have been adapted from the Oxford Companion to the Bible, to provide readers with a fascinating yet informative guide to many of the ideas, concepts, and traditions mentioned in the Bible. Readers will find informative articles on such timeless issues as adultery and abortion, divorce and drunkenness, marriage and murder, suffering and temptation. The text also covers religious concepts such as incarnation, sin, grace, baptism, ethics, and the Holy Spirit. The A-Z entries are supplemented with additional material including a detailed index and a table of abbreviations and transliterations. All in all this book will prove to be a handy and comprehensive guide for both students, scholars, and general readers interested in the Bible.