How the Bible Became the Bible
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by:
ISBN:
0-7414-2993-4
©2006
Price:
$19.95
Book Size:
5.5'' x 8.5''
, 308 pages
Category/Subject:
RELIGION / Bible / Criticism, Interpretation / General
Finally! This sane, well-documented work explains what the Bible really is and—more importantly—what it isn’t. Pssst! Those preaching sin and guilt probably won’t like this book.
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Abstract:
It is just as unbalanced to believe the Bible is only metaphorical – supporting male dominance – as it is to believe each word must be interpreted literally.
People have a desire to know that one's religion is right. This quells doubt and is fear-based. This inclination began in the Old Testament, led to abuses in Israel's Temple-State system, and influenced the documents that were included and excluded from the New Testament. These same fear-based beliefs dominate many faiths today.
The reader will understand how and why this occurred and will understand the original, historic messages of the prophets and Jesus.
Recipient, Florida Writers Association, 2006 Royal Palm Literary Award
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Customer Reviews
 
How the Bible Became the Bible
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09/18/2006
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Reviewer:
James J. DeFrancisco, Ph.D.
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This book is of much value to the serious student of Holy Scripture. It will enable the reader to view the Holy Scriptures in the context in which the books were written and arranged. It provides excellent historical background and Don's personal reflections effectively enhance his message with a glimpse of how the Holy Scripture has been integrated into his own life. Don has taken some very technical subjects and made them understandable to the average reader.
Embracing and understanding message contained in HOW THE BIBLE BECAME THE BIBLE potentially forms a bridge of understanding between various faiths within the three great Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity and Islam) and other religions as well. It can break down barriers that need not exist and shed light on the source texts that bring peace, understanding, enlightenment, and freedom.
Don raises ten questions at the beginning of the book and I didn't put the book down with the belief that all of the answers were clearly provided. From my perspective, I would like to have seen a bit more emphasis on Hebraic and Aramaic texts to get closer to sources than the Septuagint and Koine Greek texts allow. It would have been good to explain that comparisons with modern (especially Western) historical time periods must be taken with the realization that exponential growth and a rapid rate of change has existed in the West which radically differs from that of the Near East, especially during the Biblical periods.
Also, the book would benefit from more balance between various textual theories in contrast with Documentary Hypothesis, Quelle Gospel and "Community" which are presented more as fact that theoretical constructs. Fortunately, these theories are covered by other authors and more information continues to be presented to address these issues and clear the air. Perhaps, a future edition of Don's book will address these areas as well.
Donald O'Dell has made a significant contribution to those of us interested in knowing the message of the Holy Scripture. I am glad to have a copy of HOW THE BIBLE BECAME THE BIBLE in my library.
James J. DeFrancisco, PhD.
Miltha Ministries, Mishawaka, Indiana
james.j.defrancisco@gte.net
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