Special thanks to the publishers for providing a copy of this book for review purposes.
Book Description:
Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary is the most comprehensive and up-to-date Bible dictionary available. With a fresh new look and updated photographs, this new and enhanced edition is a wealth of basic study information with more than 7,000 entries plus more than 500 full-color photographs, maps, and pronunciation guides.
About the Editor and Contributors:
Ronald F. Youngblood is Professor of Old Testament and Hebrew Emeritus, Bethel Seminary San Diego.
F.F. Bruce (1910-1990) was Rylands Professor of Biblical Criticism and Exegesis, University of Manchester in England.
R.K. Harrison (1920-1993) was Professor of Old Testament at Wycliffe College, University of Toronto.
Book Details:
- Hardcover: 1280 pages
- Publisher: Thomas Nelson; New Enhanced edition (October 28, 2014)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0529106221
- ISBN-13: 978-0529106223
- Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.8 x 2.4 inches
- Retail Price: $49.99
My Thoughts:
My first thought when this illustrated Bible dictionary arrived was that it was huge (almost 2.5 inches thick) and heavy (just over 5 pounds). I honestly didn’t realize that it would be so thick, but it was a pleasant surprise because it was more comprehensive than I originally expected. Part of the larger size is due to the fact that they decided to go with a larger font size which makes it easier to read than your typical Bible dictionary.
Some of the extra features include:
- 5 Easy Steps to Better Bible Study
- Visual Survey of the Bible
- Bible History Chart
- Articles and Teaching Outlines on Books of the Bible
- Variety of Charts, Tables, and Maps
The dictionary is filled with full color images and photographs. When needed, the words have pronunciation guides to help sound out the words. Some of the entries, like Archaeology of the Bible or Egypt, have more of an encyclopedia feel than a dictionary feel as they go beyond just the definition of the word. Many of the entries have scripture passages associated with them.
The books of the Bible are also covered in this dictionary. Each of the books of the Bible have a Study and Teaching Outline as well as a more detailed entry in the dictionary that covers topics such as the structure of the book, authorship and date, historical setting, theological contribution, and special considerations.
As with any Biblical dictionary, it is important the individuals and families make sure that specific entries line up with their beliefs.. There are definitely some biases and opinions presented which may go against a family’s beliefs/religion. Because of the nature of this Biblical dictionary, it’s virtually impossible for there not to be some conflicts with different beliefs and religions.
Even with some differences of opinion on some of the entries, I feel the Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary is a valuable tool to have within the home.
