Study Bibles - What are Study Bibles

Study bibles are made to help people who have always wanted to examine the bible deeper, yet are being held back by their limited knowledge of certain biblical vocabularies and facts. Because the messages behind bible verses originally date back from the ancient period, most of the concepts and ideals included are incomprehensible to most of us modern readers. On the account of such concern, publishers of major Christian books have made it a point to help the public in their quest to get serious in learning the bible. Hence, aside from the conventional prints, new versions of the bible containing additional helpful features have been released.

Study bibles are specifically one of these versions that distinctly aim to assist and guide readers into understanding nearly every element in the bible text. They basically have two functions: one as a bible and another as a tool in dissecting the details of the bibles. Their common features include Book Introductions, Cross References, Concordance, Maps, Study Notes and the Topical Indexes.

The introductions familiarize the readers with the author, themes, and sometimes with brief outlines. These are helpful in the sense that they prepare the audience on what conditions to expect as they read along. In most cases, they even give essential background information. With cross references, the book shows a column next to a certain text that carries other passages patterned with the same idea. This feature allows the reader to focus and expand on a certain concept, which makes understanding that concept easier. In the case that one forgets the exact words of a bible text or verse, the concordance and indexes help in finding by using only a few key words. Maps are also found to be very accommodating as a lot of bible scriptures consist of narrations with detailing of geographical settings. With the visual aid of maps, readers will no longer have a hard time picturing a scenario or some circumstances. Study notes and commentaries are those added drafts to explain further vague concepts that readers encounter. Some examples of these are the usual footnotes.

Aside from such beneficial components of these bibles for studying, they also come in various presentations to suit personal preferences. Some examples are the materials used in the covers of the bibles, such as leather, hardbound and paperback. Although there are a lot of choices in the market, you are not obligated to choose the best one among them. Expect that all study bibles are equal in their intention to help, guide and support you in your way to learning the words of the Lord.

Also see this online bookstore if you want to buy bibles.