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BIBLE STUDY

in its original historical and literary context

A Biblical Theology Online Resource

Biblical theology explores the message of the biblical writers in their historical and literary contexts. This involves delving into the original languages (Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek), cultures and historical situations of the Old and New Testament writings.

Resources for Biblical Studies

Many biblical scholars have dedicated their lives to understanding the original languages, cultural backgrounds, geography and history of the Hebrew people. Below are some of the resources available to the modern Bible student.

Bible Commentary

Commentaries

Bible Commentaries explain the meaning of words, provide historical context and shed light on cultural norms assumed in the text of Scripture. They also explain the meaning of passages according to sequential flow.

Lexicons

Lexicons

 Lexicons explain the etymology and original meaning of a Hebrew or Greek word used in the Bible. They are specialized dictionaries, revealing nuances and connotations often lost in translations. 

Exegetical Dictionary

Exegetical Dictionaries

Exegetical dictionaries explain key Hebrew and Greek words according to their literary and historical contexts. Unlike traditional dictionaries, entries relay substantial information rather than mere definitions of words.

Image by Sixteen Miles Out

English Translations

There are hundreds of English translations of the Hebrew Bible and the Greek New Testament. Cross-referencing a particular scripture with various translations is helpful in capturing nuances of the original text.

Introductions

Introductions

Introductions are volumes that focus on historical questions of individual books of the Bible, such as authorship, date, occasion, purpose, audience and themes. They also provide a general survey of the contents of biblical books.

Bible Atlas

Atlases

Bible atlases aid in understanding the geographical settings and civilizations of the Ancient Near East. They contain maps of biblical lands, pictures, charts, timelines, and much more.

Inductive Bible Study

1

Observation

What does the text say? What words are repeated? Who is speaking? Who is being addressed? Where and when was the passage written?

2

Interpretation

What did the text mean to its original recipients? What does a particular word mean? What is the cultural and historical context of the passage?

3

Application

What universal principles are found in this text? How does it apply to me? What is God asking me to do? How will this impact my life, plans, priorities and decisions?

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