The Bible
The Bible is a collection of religious texts or scriptures sacred in Christianity, Judaism, and Samaritanism. It is divided into two main sections:
- Old Testament: This section contains texts that are also sacred in Judaism, known collectively as the Tanakh. It includes:
- New Testament: This is unique to Christianity and includes:
History and Formation
The process of forming the Bible as we know it today was complex:
- Old Testament: The texts were written over a period of many centuries, from approximately 1200 BCE to 165 BCE. The Masoretic Text, which is the authoritative Hebrew text, was completed around 1000 CE.
- New Testament: The writings date from about 50 CE to 120 CE. The canon was not officially settled until the Council of Carthage in 397 CE, although there were earlier lists and agreements on what should be included.
The Septuagint, a Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, was influential in the spread of Jewish scripture among Greek-speaking communities, including early Christians.
Translations and Versions
Over the centuries, the Bible has been translated into numerous languages:
Impact and Influence
The Bible has profoundly influenced:
- Literature: Many literary works have drawn inspiration or themes from Biblical narratives.
- Art: It has been a source of inspiration for countless paintings, sculptures, and other artistic expressions.
- Law: Legal systems, especially in Western cultures, have been shaped by biblical principles and ethics.
- Culture: Phrases and references from the Bible are deeply embedded in everyday language and culture.
External Links
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