Conceived by Swedish publishers Illuminated World as a way to get old-world texts into the hands of today's readers, Bible Illuminated: The Book New Testament does just that. From start to finish, Bible Illuminated delivers the words of the New Testament in paragraph format (no verses) interspersed with eye-catching images and photo essays.
Displayed in a magazine-like format, the colors and imagery are striking and will keep the reader wanting to turn the pages. There are a few images that are hard to see simply because of the subject matter (such as human injustice around the world) and yet are culturally relevant and help give the text modern-day relevance. However, parents will want to use discretion and make sure their children's maturity levels are compatible with images shown (such as the mother nursing her infant, cattle being slaughtered, etc).
My main thoughts about Bible Illuminated can be summed up in one word: controversial. While I believe that it does the job it was intended for — getting Biblical texts in front of people who wouldn't normally have any interest — it also contains select images that may be disturbing to some.
Readers should also be aware that Bible Illuminated claims no affiliation with any religion: "We have no religious agenda and support no specific faith. Bible Illuminated is intended to be a unique vehicle for reacquainting today’s reader with one of history’s most important texts." (from BibleIlluminated.com) I'm assuming this is why Bible Illuminated contains quotes and images from religious leaders outside the Christian faith as well as actors, musicians, and other celebrity figures.
Some of the time the images truly connected me to the text and other times I had a hard time making the connection. I will say, though, that the photos did draw me in and cause me to think about not only how the editors thought the photos related and why they chose each image for the selected text, but also the intended meaning of the text - which is what is most important about getting it into reader's hands.
In my opinion, Bible Illuminated: The Book New Testament could readily be used as an effective outreach tool. I would encourage readers to look through a copy and make an educated decision before purchasing. This version of the Bible won't be for everyone, but if you're looking for a way to get a new perspective on the Bible or a way to share the Bible with friends or colleagues, this modern version may be the key.
Article comments
1 - Dave
In my opinion, Bible Illuminated: The Book New Testament could readily be used as an effective outreach tool. I would encourage readers to look through a copy and make an educated decision before purchasing. This version of the Bible won't be for everyone, but if you're looking for a way to get a new perspective on the Bible or a way to share the Bible with friends or colleagues, this modern version may be the key.
Amen to that! I recently flipped through a copy of Bible Illuminated and have to say... well, first, a big WOW to the photos and the way they're used, but also that this strikes me as a bit of an introductory Bible. Maybe not the translation those who become interested in the stories will make their primary Book, but possibly the one that'll make them interested in the first place.
Although some might not like the Bible being looked at as a historical and cultural document instead of the direct Word of God, I think this would be a great way for readers to think more critically about the Bible, how we feel about it personally and how it informs (or irritates) others.
Thanks for the review! Very well done.
2 - Jennifer @ Quiverfull Family
Just curious Jill - is this the complete New Testament? Which version of the New Testament text are they using?
Sounds gritty, and I'll admit a bit odd to me, I'll admit. The Bible presented from a non-Christian perspective. I'd have to take a peek before drawing a conclusion, like your review suggested :).
3 - philip ravi kumar
pl send the free booksfor holly