Understanding the Bible: History, Structure, and Significance

Holy Scriptures: The Bible

Also known as the Holy Book, the Bible was referred to by Hebrews using the letters TNK (Torah, Neviim, and Ketuvim). Its content is diverse, covering a vast chronological period. The theme is human history, from its origin to its eventual end. It reflects life, politics, religion, and society since ancient times, showcasing a worldview that evolves across books and eras. The unifying element of the various books is their religious value, the concept of inspiration. When a text presents a lesson that the author could not have known through human means, it is considered a revealed text. The Bible is a sacred religious book, inspired by God and a vehicle of His revelation.

Two Main Sections

Old Testament

The Old Testament includes books based on the first or old covenant between the Jewish people and God. They promised to worship only Yahweh, and God undertook to lead them to the promised land, bless them, give them a large descent, grant them dominion over other peoples, and protect them. The Hebrews often failed to comply, falling into idolatry. In the Old Testament, God is spatially located in the sky, has human feelings, and can be appeased with offerings. The authenticity of some Old Testament books is debated due to oral transmission and their eventual transcription into ancient Hebrew (without vowels or punctuation).

New Testament

The New Testament includes books based on the new or second covenant. The concept of a chosen people disappears; the covenant is between God and humanity through Jesus. The vision of God also changes. The New Testament ends with the Apocalypse of St. John.

Concept of the Bible

The Bible is a collection of sacred scriptures. Its name comes from a Greek phrase adopted by the early church, ta hagia biblia, meaning "the holy books."

Old Testament Content

The Old Testament comprises writings related to the religion, history, institutions, and customs of the Jews. It was written almost entirely in Hebrew.

New Testament Content

The New Testament includes the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, which focus on the life, passion, and death of Jesus Christ. The Acts of the Apostles primarily relate to the coming of the Holy Spirit and the initiation of the Church. Other books include the epistles of St. Paul, St. Peter, St. James, St. John, and St. Jude.