quote the bible in a research paper

How To Properly Quote The Bible

Whether you are religious or not, you have probably come across Bible passages at some point. The Bible is a sacred text for Christians and Jews, but it is also an important historical document, and its many famous quotes have shaped our literature and culture.

So you may find yourself needing to cite the Bible at some point for an essay, article, or even casual writing.

If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer to citing the Bible: Enclose the book, chapter, and verse in parentheses after the quote, like (John 3:16) . Use abbreviations for books, like Gen. for Genesis.

Formatting Bible Quotations

Book name abbreviations.

When quoting from the Bible, it is important to properly abbreviate the book name. Here are some common examples:

• Genesis – Gen.
• Exodus – Exod.
• Leviticus – Lev.
• Numbers – Num.
• Deuteronomy – Deut.
• Joshua – Josh.
• Judges – Judg.
• Ruth – Ruth
• 1 Samuel – 1 Sam.
• 2 Samuel – 2 Sam.

The first time you reference a book, spell out its full name. For example: “In the Gospel of Matthew 5:3, it says…” Afterward, use the abbreviation. For example: “Jesus also referenced this in Matt. 6:24.” This helps the reader follow along.

Chapter and Verse References

When directly quoting a Bible passage, the reference should include the book name abbreviation, chapter number, colon, and verse number(s). For example:

• John 3:16 – Abbreviation, chapter, colon, verse
• Rom. 12:1-2 – Abbreviation, chapter, colon, range of verses

Chapter and verse numbers should be separated by a colon. Multiple verses should be separated by a dash. Commas and spaces are not used. The chapter and verse reference comes after the quotation. For example:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

If the quote spans multiple paragraphs, place the reference after the last paragraph. The reference should also be placed outside quotation marks and parentheses.

Following these formatting rules clearly communicates to readers where the passage is found in the Bible.

Quoting from Different Versions of the Bible

King james version.

The King James Version (KJV) of the Bible is an English translation originally published in 1611 . For centuries, it was the most widely used Bible translation in the English-speaking world and had tremendous influence on literature and culture.

Here are some tips for properly quoting the KJV:

• Use the archaic pronouns and verb endings found in the KJV, like “thee,” “thou,” and “-eth.” This helps convey the historical style of the translation.
• When directly quoting a verse, cite the book, chapter, and verse like this: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 KJV).
• If quoting multiple verses, use an ellipsis (…) or separate references for each verse quoted.
• Use brackets when a pronoun reference needs clarification, like changing “he” to “Jesus.”
• Retain any italicized words, archaic spellings, and punctuation found in the original.

The beauty of the King James Version’s language deserves to be carefully quoted to reflect both its historical elegance and scriptural authority.

New International Version

The New International Version (NIV) is a popular modern English Bible translation first published in 1978 and revised in 2011 . Here are some tips for properly quoting the NIV:

• Use contemporary pronouns and verb endings, like “you” and “-s” endings for third person.
• When directly quoting a verse, cite book, chapter, and verse: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16 NIV).
• Use an ellipsis (…) when omitting words from within a quoted verse.
• Retain any emphases like italics from the original.
• Clarify pronoun references by using brackets, like “Christ” instead of just “he.”

The NIV’s clear, accessible language makes quoting it straightforward. Just be sure to cite references and retain original formatting.

Other Popular Versions

Many other Bible translations are commonly quoted today, like the English Standard Version (ESV), New Living Translation (NLT), and New Revised Standard Version (NRSV).

Here are some tips that apply when quoting most modern versions:

• Use contemporary grammar and pronouns, but don’t modernize archaic words or names.
• Cite the full name of the version quoted, like “New Living Translation” rather than just the abbreviation.
• When comparing versions, use a table to contrast similar verses side by side.
• Clarify references to “the Lord,” “Christ,” etc. when the meaning is unclear.
• Use quotation marks or block quote formatting for extended passages.

Modern translations aim to make the Bible accessible to contemporary readers. Quoting them well involves retaining their readability while cites references fully. With care, we can insightfully quote God’s word from the wealth of English Bible versions available today.

When to Quote vs Paraphrase

Deciding when to directly quote versus paraphrase the Bible is an important consideration when writing about scripture. Here are some tips on when each approach is most appropriate:

Direct Quotes

Use direct Bible quotes when:

• You want to point to the exact wording of a specific passage
• The phrasing is especially powerful, moving, or memorable
• You are analyzing the meaning of specific words or phrases
• You need to reference a passage that prophesies the coming of Christ or other important events
• The passage is a well-known or oft-quoted section that the reader will recognize

For example, you would want to directly quote John 3:16 instead of paraphrasing:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Paraphrases

Paraphrase Bible passages when:

• You want to simplify complex phrasing or archaic language for clarity
• You need to condense a long or detailed passage to summarize the main point
• You are comparing events across different books or sections
• You want to explain passages to non-Christians unfamiliar with the Bible

For example, you could paraphrase part of Paul’s letter to the Romans 3:23-24:

Paul explains that everyone sins and falls short of God’s glorious standard, yet are justified freely through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ.

Finding the right balance of direct Bible quotes and paraphrased explanations requires wisdom and discernment. Study each passage carefully when deciding whether to quote verbatim or rephrase the meaning using your own words.

Both approaches have their place in writing that brings scriptural truths to light.

Using Long Quotes

When quoting long passages from the Bible in an essay or article, it is important to format the quote properly to make it clear that you are citing a direct quote. Here are some tips for formatting long Bible quotes:

For Bible passages that are more than 4 lines long, format them as a block quotation. Start the quote on a new line and indent the entire quote 0.5 inches from the left margin. Do not use quotation marks around the passage. Here is an example:

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.

(John 3:16-18, NIV)

Citing the Translation

When quoting Scripture, be sure to cite which Bible translation you are using. Abbreviate the title and include it in parentheses after the quote. Common abbreviations include:

• NIV – New International Version
• ESV – English Standard Version
• KJV – King James Version
• NRSV – New Revised Standard Version

Formatting Line Spacing

Add extra spacing above and below long block quotes to separate them from the rest of the text. This improves readability. Many style guides recommend spacing block quotes 0.5 inches from the surrounding text.

For Bible passages less than 4 lines long, format them as a short in-line quotation. Enclose the quote in double quotation marks and cite the translation.

Make sure to properly introduce the quote in the lead up text. Here’s an example:

Jesus clearly explains that “man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4, NIV). This demonstrates that spiritual nourishment is important.

Merging Quotes

You can also merge a short quote into the text without using quotation marks. Make sure it fits grammatically into your sentence. For example:

The prophet Isaiah reminds us that no eye has seen what God has prepared for those who love Him (1 Corinthians 2:9).

Using these formatting tips will help ensure your Bible quotes are properly cited and easy for readers to understand within the context of your writing.

Examples of Common Bible Quotes

The Bible contains many memorable and influential quotes that have become an integral part of our culture. Here are some examples of commonly quoted Bible verses and passages:

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want” – Psalm 23:1

This beloved verse from Psalm 23 has brought comfort and hope to millions of people over the centuries. It poetically expresses the close relationship between God and those who follow him.

“Love your neighbor as yourself” – Matthew 22:39

This command from Jesus simply yet powerfully encapsulates the Christian ethic of selfless love and care for others. It has become a widely known moral principle even among non-Christians.

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” – Genesis 1:1

The majestic opening words of the Bible have been memorized by countless Christians. They affirm God’s sovereignty as the divine Creator who brought the universe into being.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” – John 3:16

This concise yet profound verse summarizes the gospel – that God sent his Son Jesus Christ to die for our sins and give us salvation. It is often called the “gospel in a nutshell.”

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength” – Philippians 4:13

Paul’s uplifting words of encouragement have motivated generations of Christians to press on with fortitude and hope in their faith. The verse emphasizes our dependence on God’s strength.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” – Proverbs 3:5

From the book of wisdom, this call to trust God fully resonates with believers seeking guidance. It speaks to forsaking self-reliance and submitting to God’s good plans.

The Bible’s most significant verses have become touchstones of truth and wisdom for billions of people. Even for those unfamiliar with Scripture, quotes like these often carry profound meaning and influence.

They reflect Christianity’s immense cultural impact over thousands of years.

Quoting scripture can enrich your writing while lending credibility and weight to your ideas. With the right citation format and context, Bible passages blend seamlessly into essays, articles, and other texts.

While different versions and translations exist, the strategies outlined here will help you quote the Bible accurately in your own work.

Amanda Williams is a dedicated Christian writer and blogger who is passionate about sharing Biblical truth and encouraging believers in their faith walks. After working as a youth pastor and Bible teacher for several years, she launched her blog in 2022 to minister to Christians online seeking to grow deeper in their relationship with Jesus Christ. When she's not creating content or connecting with readers, Amanda enjoys studying theology, being out in nature, baking, and spending time with family. Her goal is to provide practical wisdom and hope from a genuine Christian perspective. Amanda currently resides in Colorado with her husband, daughter, and two rescue dogs.

Similar Posts

The 5 Basic Beliefs Of Christianity

Christianity has shaped the world as we know it today. Understanding its core tenets can provide insight into Western history, values, culture, and politics. At its foundation, Christianity is centered around five key beliefs. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The 5 basic beliefs of Christianity are belief in…

What Does The Bible Say About Stars?

The night sky has captivated humanity since the beginning of time. When we gaze up at the stars, we can’t help but marvel at their beauty and mystery. This leads many to wonder – what does the Bible say about stars? If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: The Bible refers to stars…

Why Does God Want Us To Worship Him?

Worship is a central part of many people’s relationship with God. But why does God want us to worship Him in the first place? This is a question that has been pondered by theologians and philosophers for centuries. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: God wants us to worship…

The Three Laws Of God: A Complete Explanation

The laws of God provide guidance on how to live a righteous life. For centuries, theologians and philosophers have contemplated what exactly God’s laws entail. While numerous principles could be considered divine laws, three primary laws form the foundation of God’s expectations for human behavior. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to…

Unveiling The Enigmatic Meaning Of 1215: A Comprehensive Exploration

In the vast tapestry of numbers, some hold a peculiar allure, captivating our curiosity and inviting us to unravel their mysteries. One such number is 1215, a seemingly innocuous combination of digits that has intrigued minds across generations. Whether you’re a history buff, a numerologist, or simply someone seeking to quench their thirst for knowledge,…

Who Is The Strongman In The Bible?

When it comes to displays of superhuman strength in the Bible, a few key figures stand out as the strongest men in scripture. Many Bible stories feature mighty warriors and heroes of enormous physical power, but who has the greatest claim to the title of ‘Biblical strongman’? If you’re short on time, here’s a quick…

The holy script

How To Cite The Bible In Apa 7Th Edition

Introduction

Citing the Bible correctly in APA 7th edition can be a confusing and unfamiliar task for new students. The APA 7th edition authors and editors at the American Psychological Association have developed a specific format for citing religious texts, such as the Bible. It is important for students to know and understand the proper way to cite the Bible because when writing research papers, articles, and essays, the reader should be able to locate the source material quickly and easily. In this article, we will explain how to cite the Bible in APA 7th edition, and provide tips and perspectives from experts.

General Rules For Citing

When citing the Bible in APA 7th edition, the first rule is to use the abbreviation “Bible” rather than spelling it out. After stating “Bible” in the reference list, include the version of the Bible, followed by the book name, chapter, and verse. For example, “(New International Version, Matthew 5:7).” When citing the Bible in the body of the paper, refer to the book name, chapter, and verse—for example, “(Matthew 5:7).” The book name is not italicized, and the chapter and verse are not italicized.

How To Cite A Bible Verse But Not Necessarily Quote It

When citing a Bible verse but not quoting it, the APA 7th edition authors and editors recommend that you include both the book name and the chapter and verse after the word Bible. This can be done in two ways: you can include the chapter and verse in parentheses after the book name, or you can include the chapter and verse in a superscript after the book name. For example, “the Bible tells us in Matthew 5:7,” or “the Bible tells us in Matthew 5:7 1 .”

How To Cite A Bible Quote

When citing a Bible quote, the APA 7th edition authors and editors recommend that you include both the book name and the chapter and verse after the quote. This can be done in two ways: you can include the chapter and verse in parentheses after the quote, or you can include the chapter and verse in a superscript after the quote. For example, ““Do not be afraid, for I am with you” (Matthew 5:7),” or ““Do not be afraid, for I am with you” 2 .”

Perspective From Experts

When citing the Bible in APA 7th edition, it is important to remain consistent throughout the paper. One way to do this is to always list the book name and the chapter and verse in parentheses, or in a superscript, for both citing a Bible verse and quoting it. Experts also recommend that you limit the amount of quotes from the Bible in a paper, as excessive quoting can take away from the quality of the paper.

In-text Citations

When citing the Bible in the body of the paper, the APA 7th edition authors and editors recommend that you include both the book name and the chapter and verse in parentheses or a superscript, as described above. You also need to include an in-text citation after the quote or Bible verse. This can be done by simply including the author’s last name, the year of publication, and the page number in parentheses. For example, ““Do not be afraid, for I am with you” (Matthew 5:7, Jackson, 2020, p. 54).”

When citing the Bible in the reference list, the APA 7th edition authors and editors recommend that you include the version of the Bible you are citing, followed by the book name, chapter, and verse. For example: Jackson, D. (2020). The Bible. New International Version, Matthew 5:7. When citing older versions of the Bible, the publication year should be included. For example: Holy Bible (King James Version). (1611). New York, NY: American Bible Society.

Emotional Triggers In Citing Bible Verses

When citing the Bible, it is important to remember that the Bible contains many emotional triggers and can evoke powerful emotions in the reader. In order to avoid any potential triggers, it is essential to express the Biblical quotes accurately and clearly. Additionally, it is important to practice sensitivity when citing the Bible, to ensure that no one takes offense to the words written.

Style Guide For Bible Citations

When citing the Bible in APA 7th edition, it is important to stick to the style guide established by the American Psychological Association. Students should never abbreviate books of the Bible, as each book has a proper name in the English bible. Additionally, it is important to give proper credit to the version of the Bible you used by including the name of the version in the reference list.

Formatting Bible Citations

The APA 7th edition authors and editors recommend that students use the same formatting style when citing the Bible throughout their entire paper. This ensures that all citations are consistent and easily identifiable by the reader. It is also important to include the page number when citing the Bible in the body of the paper, so that the reader can easily locate the source material.

Inaccurate Citing

When citing the Bible, it is important to make sure that you are accurate in your citations. If you cite the wrong book, chapter, or verse, the reader might get confused or question the accuracy of your work. Therefore, it is important to triple check your sources and make sure that you are citing the correct source.

Proper Attribution

When citing the Bible, it is important to practice proper attribution. This means that you should give credit where it is due and include the original source work in the reference list. This will show the reader that you have done your research correctly and are respecting the work of the original author.

Using Bible Verses For Support

When using a Bible verse to support an argument or an opinion, it is important to not misquote or misinterpret the verse. When using the Bible to support an argument, be sure to explain what the verse means and how it supports your argument. Additionally, it is important to explain how the verse fits into the Biblical context, as some verses can be taken out of context and lose their intended meaning.

Practicing Sensitivity

When citing the Bible, it is important to practice sensitivity. This means being respectful of individual beliefs and cultural backgrounds, as well as being aware of any potentially emotionally charged words or references. This is especially important when referring to a controversial topic or event, as this could elicit a strong emotional response from the reader.

Expert Analysis

When citing the Bible in APA 7th edition, it is important to remember that each book, chapter, and verse should be cited accurately and correctly. Additionally, it is important to practice proper attribution and give credit to the original author. Furthermore, it is important to practice sensitivity when citing the Bible and to make sure that no one takes offense to the words written. Finally, it is important to remember to always use the same formatting style when citing the Bible throughout the entire paper.

Marcos Reyna

Marcos Reyna is a Christian author and speaker. He is dedicated to helping create disciples of Christ through spreading the power of the gospel to others. He has written several books and articles on a variety of theological topics, including matters of faith, worship, biblical studies, practical ethics, and social justice. A trained theologian and devotee of spiritual writing, Marcos has a mission to spread Christian love everywhere. He lives with his family in Nashville, TN where he spends his days encouraging others to seek Christ's grace in all things.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Books, Articles, & More
• Curriculum Library
• Archives & Special Collections
• Scholars Crossing
• Research Guides
• Student Support
• Faculty Support
• Interlibrary Loan

MLA Writing Guide: Citing the Bible

• Formatting for Individual Papers
• Formatting for Group Papers
• In-text Citations
• Article Examples
• Book/eBook Examples
• Citing the Bible

What follows below are some examples of how to cite the Bible in MLA. For more detailed information and examples, please see Liberty University's Writing Center MLA citation examples or MLA's style site .

In-text Citation

Include the version (ESV, NIV, ASB, etc.) followed by the book, chapter, and verse(s). 

Paul explains salvation when he says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast" ( English Standard Version , Eph. 2:8-9). 

You do not need to list the version in subsequent in-text citations as long as you are using the same Bible version throughout your paper.

Works Cited

Physical Bible:

The Bible . Authorized King James Version, Oxford UP, 1998. 

The ESV Study Bible . Crossway, 2012.

Electronic Bible :

New International Version. Bible Gateway, https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-International-Version-NIV-Bible/#booklist. Accessed 10 September 2020.

Bible App :

English Standard Version. ESV Bible, app version 4.1.1. Crossway. 2021.

• << Previous: Book/eBook Examples
• Last Updated: Aug 28, 2023 2:29 PM
• URL: https://libguides.liberty.edu/MLAguide

Generate accurate Chicago citations for free

• Knowledge Base
• Chicago Style
• How to Cite the Bible in Chicago Style | Format & Abbreviations

How to Cite the Bible in Chicago Style | Format & Abbreviations

Published on October 31, 2019 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on April 9, 2024.

The Bible is cited differently from other books in Chicago style . Biblical citations can appear either in the text, in parentheses , or in Chicago footnotes or endnotes , but the Bible is not included in your bibliography or reference list .

A Bible citation always includes the book, chapter, and verse. It sometimes also includes the version of the Bible you are using.

Chicago Citation Generator

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

Table of contents

Referring to the bible in your text, abbreviating books of the bible, versions of the bible, citing multiple verses or chapters.

Unlike other book titles, the Bible should not be italicized, but it should always be capitalized:

The same applies to individual books of the Bible and to the names of the Old and New Testaments:

Don't submit your assignments before you do this

The academic proofreading tool has been trained on 1000s of academic texts. Making it the most accurate and reliable proofreading tool for students. Free citation check included.

Try for free

When referred to in running text, books of the Bible need not be abbreviated:

However, abbreviations should be used when a Bible citation appears in parentheses or in a note. There are two widely used abbreviation styles: traditional abbreviations and shorter abbreviations.

In the traditional abbreviations, some shorter names are not abbreviated, and a period appears after all names that are abbreviated.

In the shorter abbreviations, all names are abbreviated, usually to two or three letters, and no period is used.

Use one or the other consistently, not a mix of the two. A full list of the traditional and shorter abbreviations for each book can be found here .

Bible verse and chapter numbering, as well as the text itself, vary between different versions, so it’s important to specify which version you are citing.

This doesn’t mean identifying the specific publisher, but rather which version of the Bible text they are using. For example, with the Oxford World’s Classics edition of the Authorized King James Bible, you’d specify “Authorized Version,” not “Oxford University Press” or similar.

Include the Bible version in parentheses after your citation:

If it is part of a parenthetical citation, put the version in square brackets instead:

Citing from only one Bible version

If you cite from the same Bible version throughout your text, you can note this with your first citation and then leave out the version in subsequent citations:

Footnotes example

1. Gen. 4:9 (Hebrew Bible; all subsequent citations are from this version). 2. Job 4:5.

Citing from multiple Bible versions

If you cite from multiple different versions of the Bible, specify which version with each citation, but use abbreviations for the second and subsequent citations of each version:

1. Gen. 4:9 (Hebrew Bible). 2. Job 4:5 (HB). 3. Mark 1:2 (English Revised Version).

Information on standard abbreviations for various Bible versions can be found here .

If a citation refers to multiple verses or chapters, use an en dash to indicate the range:

When citing a range of verses within one chapter, do not repeat the chapter number:

• Thess. 5:2–5:4
• Thess. 5:2–4

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Caulfield, J. (2024, April 09). How to Cite the Bible in Chicago Style | Format & Abbreviations. Scribbr. Retrieved September 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/chicago-style/bible-citations/

Is this article helpful?

Jack Caulfield

Other students also liked, chicago in-text citations | styles, format & examples, chicago style footnotes | citation format & examples, how to cite a book in chicago style | format & examples, "i thought ai proofreading was useless but..".

I've been using Scribbr for years now and I know it's a service that won't disappoint. It does a good job spotting mistakes”

APA Format Style Guide: Citing the Bible

• Formatting Your Paper
• In-Text Citations
• Periodicals
• Books and Reference Works

Citing the Bible

• Reports and Gray Literature
• Dissertations and Theses, Conference Sessions and Presentations
• Reviews, Unpublished Works, and Informally Published Works
• Data Sets, Software, and Tests
• Film and Audio Visual Materials
• Social Media
• Legal References

General Rules

• Religious works published as books follow the book reference format.  Religious works published as websites follow the webpage reference format.
• Religious works are usually treated as having no author.
• Annotated versions of a religious work should be treated as having an editor.  Translated works use the translator's name in the reference.
• Use the year of publication of the version you used in the date element of the reference.
• The year of original publication of a religious work may be unknown or in dispute, and is therefore not included in the reference.  However, versions of works such as the Bible may be republished; these republished dates are included in the reference.
• When two dates appear in the reference, include both years in the in-text citation, separated with a slash, the earlier year first.
• When referring to the Bible generally, or to versions of the Bible generally, do not use italics (e.g. the King James Version of the Bible, the New Revised Standard Version).
• Cite a chapter or verse in the text using canonical numbering rather than page numbers:

The person vowed to "set me as a seal upon thine heart" ( King James Bible , 1769/2017, Song of Solomon 8:6).

Remember to indent the second and following lines as you write your reference list entries!

Citing the Bible as a Print Book

The English Standard Version Bible: Containing the Old and New Testaments with Apocrypha.  (2009). Oxford University Press.

• Parenthetical Citation: (The English Standard Version Bible, 2009)
• Narrative Citations: The English Standard Version Bible (2009)

Citing the Bible as a Digital Work/Website

King James Bible . (2017). King James Bible Online. https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/ (Original work published 1769)

• Parenthetical Citation: (King James Bible, 1769/2017)
• Narrative Citation: King James Bible (1769/2017)

Citing an Annotated Edition

Kaiser, W.C., Jr., 7 Garrett, D. (Eds.). (2006). NIV archeological study Bible: An illustrated walk through biblical history and culture . Zondervan.

• Parenthetical Citation: (Kaiser & Garrett, 2006)
• Narrative Citation: Kaiser and Garrett (2006)

Cite a chapter or verse of the religious work in the text using canonical numbering rather than page numbers: (Kaiser & Garrett, 2006, Genesis 1:20)

Cite a portion of the work created by its authors or editors using page numbers from the work: (Kaiser & Garrett, 2006, footnote to Genesis 1:12, p. 4)

Citing Commentaries

Remember to indent the second and following lines of your reference list entries!

Citing a Chapter in an Edited Book in a Multi-Volume Work

Hagner, D. A. (1995). The parable about fulfilling responsibility. In B.M. Metzger, D.A. Hubbard, & G. W. Barker

(Eds.),  Word biblical commentary: Vol. 33B. Matthew 14-18  (pp. 730-737). Thomas Nelson.

• Parenthetical Citation: (Hagner, 1995)
• Narrative Citation:Hagner (1995)

Citing a Multi-Volume Work

Nichol, F. (Ed.). (1980).  The Seventh-day Adventist Bible commentary (Vol. 5).   Review and  Herald Publishing Association.

• Parenthetical Citation: (Nichol,1980)
• Narrative Citation: Nichol (1980)

Citing a Book in a Series

Wilkins, M. J. (2004). Matthew. In T. Muck (Ed.),  The NIV application commentary series .  Zondervan.      

• Parenthetical Citation: (Wilkins, 2004)
• Narrative Citation: Wilkins (2004)

Changes from 6th Edition to 7th Edition

• Cite the Bible as a print book with no author.  
• Use the title as the author in both in-text citations and reference list citations.
• Use the canonical numbering instead of page numbers.
• << Previous: Books and Reference Works
• Next: Reports and Gray Literature >>
• Last Updated: Sep 25, 2023 12:46 PM
• URL: https://libguides.valleyforge.edu/c.php?g=1039788

APA 7th ed. Style Guide

• Student Papers
• Professional Papers
• In-Text / Parenthetical Citations
• Books and eBooks
• Miscellaneous resources
• Contact the Library

General guidelines for citing the Bible in APA 7 format:

Bible passages are classified as "religious and classical" books without authors and must be included with your References if they are mentioned in your text. (This is a new rule with the APA 7th ed.)

In-Text Citations

Bible Version, Date of Publication, Book chapter and verse.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.” (New International Version, 1973/1984, John 1:1-2)

Version. (YEAR). Publisher. (Original work published YEAR).

Example (Bible):

New International Version. (1984). International Bible Society. (Original work published 1973).

Example (religious work online):

King James Bible. (2017). King James Bible Online. https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/

(Original work published 1769)

Example (YouVersion Bible mobile app):

Amplified Bible. (2015). YouVersion (Version 8.23, RED 2.10.1.2272) [Mobile app].

https://www.youversion.com/the-bible-app/ (Original work published 1965)

Tips for using a mobile app:

• In YouVersion , the year of publication is found at the bottom of every page of scriptural text and the mobile app version is found at the bottom of the "About" page of the "More" menu on the Home page.
• Always include the URL for an app if possible.
• See the APA blog for more information about citing and referencing mobile apps and entries from mobile apps .

To see a detailed discussion of citing the Bible take a look at one of the sample papers below.

• Sample professional paper Example of a professional paper formatted in APA 7th edition.
• Sample student paper Example of a student paper formatted in APA 7th edition style.
• << Previous: In-Text / Parenthetical Citations
• Next: Books and eBooks >>
• Last Updated: Jul 28, 2023 11:08 AM
• URL: https://libguides.hiu.edu/apa7

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• College University and Postgraduate
• Academic Writing

How to Cite the Bible in APA

Last Updated: December 29, 2022 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Gerald Posner and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Gerald Posner is an Author & Journalist based in Miami, Florida. With over 35 years of experience, he specializes in investigative journalism, nonfiction books, and editorials. He holds a law degree from UC College of the Law, San Francisco, and a BA in Political Science from the University of California-Berkeley. He’s the author of thirteen books, including several New York Times bestsellers, the winner of the Florida Book Award for General Nonfiction, and has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History. He was also shortlisted for the Best Business Book of 2020 by the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 58,158 times.

Even in an academic research paper, you may find that you want to cite the Bible as a source. As with any source, you have to cite the Bible if you paraphrase or quote it in your text. The American Psychological Association (APA) Publication Manual does not require a reference list entry for the Bible – only an in-text citation. However, your instructor or advisor may want publication information in your reference list. If you include a reference list entry, use the APA format for a book with no identified author.

In-Text Citation

• Example: (John 3:16
• Abbreviate longer book names in your parenthetical citation. A handy table of abbreviations used in APA style can be found at https://www.apu.edu/live_data/files/288/citing_the_bible.pdf .

• Example: (John 3:16 New Revised Standard Version).

APA In-Text Bible Citation Format

(Book Chapter:Verse Version).

• For example, if you were comparing the language used in different translations, you would need to include each of the different versions in the parenthetical citations.

• For example, you might write "John 3:16 (New Revised Standard Version) states that everyone who believes in God and believes that Jesus is the Son of God will be granted eternal life in heaven."

Reference List Entry

• If you're citing supplementary material in the Bible, such as an introduction or study notes, you would typically include a reference list entry citing that portion as though it were an article or entry in a reference book, including the name of the author.

• Example: Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version .

• Example: Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version . (1990).

• Example: Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version . (1990). New York, NY: HarperCollins.

APA Reference List Format

Holy Bible: Name of Version . (Year). City, State: Publisher.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ https://www.messiah.edu/download/downloads/id/1647/bible_cite.pdf
• ↑ https://hbl.gcc.libguides.com/c.php?g=339562&p=2286667
• ↑ https://morlingcollege.libguides.com/apareferencing/bible
• ↑ https://libguides.up.edu/apa/biblical_sources

About This Article

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Nov 26, 2020

Did this article help you?

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

Thursday, February 23: The Clark Library is closed today.

MLA Style (9th Edition) Citation Guide: Biblical Sources

• Introduction to MLA Style
• Journal Articles
• Magazine/Newspaper Articles
• Books & Ebooks
• Government & Legal Documents
• Biblical Sources
• Secondary Sources
• Videos/DVDs/TV Shows
• How to Cite: Other
• 9th Edition Updates
• Additional Help

Table of Contents

Bible dictionary, single-volume commentary, multi-volume bible commentary, book-length commentary in a series, citing the bible.

Note: For your Works Cited list, all citations should be double spaced and have a hanging indent.

A "hanging indent" means that each subsequent line after the first line of your citation should be indented by 0.5 inches.

Name of Generic Religious Texts in the Body of Your Paper

Do not italicize or use quotation marks in your paper when referring to a generic religious text. These terms appear without italics or quotation marks when referred to in your paper:

Bible, Old Testament, Genesis, Gospels, Talmud, Qur'an (Koran), Upanishads.

Only italicize titles of individual published editions of religous texts (e.g., The Talmud of the Land of Israel: A Preliminary Translation and Explanation, The Interlinear Bible, etc.) when specifically citing them in your paper.

In-Text Citations

The titles of books of scripture are often abbreviated for the in-text citation. For a full list of abbreviations, consult section 1.6.4 of the MLA Handbook.

Author's Last Name, First Name Middle Name if Given. “Title of Entry.” Title of Work , edited by Editor’s First Middle Last Name, vol. volume#, Publisher, Year published, pp. first page-last page.

Works Cited List Example:

 Sarna, Nahum M. “Exodus, Book of.” The Anchor Yale Bible Dictionary , edited by Daniel Noel Freedman, vol. 2, Yale UP, 2008, pp. 689-700.

In-Text Citation Example:

 (Author's Last Name Page Number)

 Example: (Sarna 690)  

Author's Last Name, First Name Middle Name if Given. “Title of Entry.” Title of Work , edited by Editor’s First Middle Last Name, Edition# ed., vol. volume#, Publisher, Year published. Database, URL of the entry.

Browning, W. R. F. “Daniel, Book of.” A Dictionary of the Bible , 2nd ed., Oxford UP, 2009. Oxford Reference , www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780199543984.001.0001/acref-9780199543984-e-485.

 (Author's Last Name) -  if the online source does not provide page numbers then omit the page number from the in-text citation

 Example: (Browning)  

A single-volume commentary is a book that contains chapters covering each of the books of the Bible.

Author's Last Name, First Name Middle Name if Given. “Title of Entry.” Title of Work , edited by Editor’s First Middle Last Name, Second Editor’s First Middle Last Name, and Third Editor’s First Middle Last Name, Publisher, Year published, pp. first page-last page.

Perkins, Pheme. “The Gospel According to John.” The New Jerome Biblical Commentary,  edited by Raymond E. Brown, Joseph A. Fitzmyer, and Roland E. Murphy, Prentice-Hall, 1990, pp. 942-85.

(Author's Last Name) Page Number

Example: (Perkins 955)  

Author's Last Name, First Name Middle Name if Given. “Title of Entry.” Title of Work , edited by Editor’s First Middle Last Name and Second Editor’s First Middle Last Name, Publisher, Year published. Database , URL of the entry.

Franklin, Eric. “Luke.” Oxford Bible Commentary , edited by John Barton and John Muddiman, Oxford UP, 2001.  ProQuest Ebook Central , ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/up/detail.action?docID=3052723&pq-origsite=primo.

(Author's Last Name)

 Example: (Franklin)  

A multi-volume commentary is a set of multiple books that contains chapters covering each of the books of the Bible.

Perkins, Pheme. “Mark.” The New Interpreter’s Bible , edited by Leander E. Keck, vol. 8, Abingdon Press, 1994, pp. 507-734. 

 Example: (Perkins 601) 

A book-length commentary is a book that includes commentary on just one book of the Bible (and sometimes only part of one book of the Bible).

Author's Last Name, First Name Middle Name if Given. Title of Book . Title of Series. Publisher, Year published.

Vinson, Richard Bolling. Luke . Smyth & Helwys Bible Commentary. Smyth & Helwys, 2008. 

 Example: (Vinson 302)

Author's Last Name, First Name Middle Name if Given. Title of Book . Title of Series. Publisher, Year published. Database , URL.

Vinson, Richard Bolling. Luke. Smyth & Helwys Bible Commentary. Smyth & Helwys, 2008.  EBSCOhost , search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nlebk&AN=942774&site=ehost-live&scope=site.

Citing the Version of the Bible

The first time you paraphrase or quote from the Bible, identify which version of the Bible that you used. You do not need to repeat the version name in subsequent references. You also do not need to cite the Bible in your bibliography.

In-Text Indication of the Bible Version Used

The researchers consulted the Bible (King James Version) to provide items for the development of their religious values assessment.

Bibliography

No citation needed

Citing Biblical Chapters and Verses

When referring to books of the Bible within the body of your paper:

• Example: Genesis, Luke 4, Revelation 1-3
• Example: Exod 2:1-3; Matt 13:12

Note: it isn't necessary to add a period after the abbreviated book name. Include a space between the book name and the chapter number, and include a colon between the chapter number and the verse(s).

Citing Introductions, Annotations, or Supplemental Content in the Bible

Works Cited List Examples:

Carr, David M. Introduction to Genesis. The New Oxford Annotated Bible with Apocrypha: New Revised Standard Version , edited by Michael D. Coogan et al., Oxford UP, 2010, pp. 7-11. 

Kaiser, Walter C. and Duane Garrett, editors. Footnote to Genesis 1:12.  NIV Archaeological Study Bible: An Illustrated Walk Through Biblical History and Culture, by Kaiser and Garrett,  Zondervan, 2006, p. 20.

In-Text Citation Examples:

(Kaiser and Garrett 4)

• << Previous: Websites
• Next: Secondary Sources >>
• Last Updated: Sep 5, 2024 3:20 PM
• URL: https://libguides.up.edu/mla

• Azusa Pacific University Libraries

Q. How do I cite the Bible in MLA format?

• 6 Biblical Studies
• 11 Borrowing - APU Libraries
• 4 Borrowing - Other Libraries
• 1 Call Number
• 1 Chemistry
• 1 Church History
• 20 Citation & Style
• 1 Communications
• 1 Copyright
• 28 Databases
• 3 Education
• 4 Exporting
• 4 First Year Seminar
• 19 For Faculty
• 2 FWS Orientation
• 3 Global Studies
• 4 Higher Education
• 60 How Do I...?
• 1 Information Literacy
• 6 Interlibrary Loan & Document Delivery
• 22 Journal Articles
• 3 Library Account
• 1 Library Catalog
• 1 Library Contact Info & Location
• 1 Library Hours
• 13 Library Policies
• 18 Library Resources
• 2 Los Angeles Pacific University (LAPU)
• 1 Multiculturalism
• 13 Off-Campus/Remote Access
• 1 Open Access
• 1 Peer Review
• 3 Placing Holds
• 1 Popular Sources
• 1 Practical Theology
• 1 Printing/Copying
• 3 Psychology
• 13 Public Health
• 5 Publishing
• 1 Purchase Request
• 4 Qualitative
• 4 Quantitative
• 3 Renewing Items
• 19 Research Help
• 14 Scholarly Sources
• 6 Scoping Review
• 1 Social Justice
• 1 Social Work
• 3 Sociology
• 7 Streaming Video
• 6 Systematic Review
• 1 Theater/Film/Television
• 1 Transformative Agreement
• 9 Where Is...?

Answered By: Lindsey Sinnott Last Updated: Jan 07, 2019     Views: 297439

With MLA style, you need to cite the Bible two ways: in the text of your paper, and on your Works Cited page.

The  first time you include a quote from the Bible, you need to include the translation, chapter (abbreviated), book, and verse, like this:

Paul urges Christians to "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect" ( English Standard Version , Rom. 12.2).

If you include quotations from the same translation later in your paper, you only need to include the book, chapter, and verse:

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4.6-7).

Works Cited

On your works cited page, your citation should include the translation you used; the editor's name, if given; and the publication information. Examples are given below (note that The  Message  is slightly different because it has an author, not an editor).

Printed Bibles

The English Standard Version Bible . New York: Oxford University Press, 2009. Print.

The New Oxford Annotated Bible . Ed. Michael D. Coogan. New York: Oxford University Press, 2007. Print.

Peterson, Eugene H.  The Message: The Bible in Contemporary Language . Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2002. Print.

Bible Gateway

English Standard Version . Bible Gateway. Web. 25 Oct. 2012.

Peterson, Eugene H. The Message . Bible Gateway. Web. 25 Oct. 2012.

• Share on Facebook

Was this helpful? Yes 465 No 115

Comments (7)

• This a good way of learning !!! Awsome by jordan on Jan 13, 2013
• Thank you so MUCH!! it was a great help.. by Lily on Nov 30, 2015
• this was very helpful, quick and straight to the point. Thank you. by monica on Oct 04, 2016
• this was extremely helpful for my research paper, thank you. by Mari F on Nov 13, 2016
• I thank you for your help, of great value, I did not make the error of quotation again. . by Henrique on Jun 26, 2017
• This was so helpful! Thank you for having examples it made it easier to understand. by Jill on Jan 25, 2018
• The most useful article on how to cite from the Bible after reading 10-15 articles. Quick and easy-to-understand concepts because of the great examples given. Thank you! R.S. Chao (Technical & Medical Writer & Author) by R.S. Chao on Nov 29, 2020

Related Topics

Library info & research help.

APU Libraries

• Darling Library
• Marshburn Library
• Stamps Library
• Regional Campuses

Library & Research Help Hours

Research Help

Starting Your Research

Research Guides

Contact a Librarian

Chat Research Help

• How to Cite
• Language & Lit
• Rhyme & Rhythm
• The Rewrite
• Search Glass

Writing Rules for Quoting Scripture

Incorporating Bible scripture into your essay, research paper or term paper isn't difficult, as long as you comply with your teacher's instructions and follow either Modern Language Association guidelines or American Psychological Association rules. They differ slightly. Always use quotations around scripture verses and include the book, chapter number and verse number at the end of the quotation. Provide the name of the Bible version in your first in-text citation.

Modern Language Association Style

Place parentheses at the end of your in-text Bible quotation when you're using the MLA style. The vital information for first citation is Bible version, book, chapter and verse. Include the full name of the translation, such as the New King James Version, the New International Version, the Living Bible or the New American Standard Bible. Italicize the name of the Bible version and place a comma after it. Next, add the name of the book, the chapter number -- followed by a colon -- and the verse.

For example, if you quote the first Book of John, Chapter 1, Verse 19, from the New International Version, you write:

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." ( New International Version , I John 1:9).

American Psychological Association Style

Add parentheses after your Bible quotation and write the name of the book when you're using the APA style. Next, include the chapter number and verse number, separated by a colon. In this style, you write the name of the specific Bible translation after the chapter and verse and include your closing parentheses.

For example, if you quote Romans, Chapter 3, Verse 23 from the New American Standard Bible, you write:

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23 New American Standard Bible).

Note that nothing is italicized in the APA citation.

Works Cited Page

APA style doesn't require you to include a Bible citation on the References page -- an in-text citation is sufficient. When using MLA style, include the Bible reference on your works cited page. Italicize the name of the Bible version and place a period after it. Use the abbreviation "Ed." for the editor, followed by her name and another period. List the name of the city of publication, a colon and the name of the publisher. Add a comma and the date, followed by a period.

For example, according to the Purdue University Online Write Lab you should write the works cited entry like this:

The New Jerusalem Bible . Ed. Susan Jones. New York: Doubleday, 1985.

Special Considerations

You can abbreviate most books of the Bible that contain more than four letters, or you can spell them out. Exceptions include First and Second Kings -- "Kings" is always spelled out. Abbreviate First and Second Chronicles "Chron.," Ecclesiastes "Eccles." and "Thess." for First and Second Thessalonians. Use "Philem." for Philemon and "Song of Sol." for the Song of Solomon, according to the Henry Buhl Library.

When using either the MLA or APA style format, list the version of the Bible in your first in-text citation only, unless you switch to another version. In subsequent citations, the book, chapter and verse information is the only information required.

• Henry Buhl Library, Grove City College: Citing the Bible and Other Biblical Resources
• Azusa Pacific University: How Do I Cite the Bible in MLA Format?
• Purdue University Online Writing Lab: MLA Works Cited Page -- Books

As curriculum developer and educator, Kristine Tucker has enjoyed the plethora of English assignments she's read (and graded!) over the years. Her experiences as vice-president of an energy consulting firm have given her the opportunity to explore business writing and HR. Tucker has a BA and holds Ohio teaching credentials.

Style Guide for Research Papers: Citing the Bible

• Style & Format
• Citing the Bible
• Footnotes & Bibliography
• Citing Books
• Citing Commentaries
• Citing Dictionaries/Encyclopedias
• Citing Journals
• Citing Lexicons
• Citing Digital Media
• Abbreviations
• Model Title Page

Biblical Citations

Parenthetical citation of bible references.

            It is common for papers in the fields of Bible and theology to cite or reference the Bible throughout the paper. This is particularly true for exegetical papers that interact extensively with the biblical text. Rather than placing references to the Bible in footnotes, the department requires students to employ parenthetical, in-text citation of the Bible, following the quotation or reference. For example:

Jesus made clear the necessity of spiritual rebirth when he told Nicodemus “unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3).

If the reference appears in the sentence, no parenthetical citation is necessary. If the context of the discussion makes clear the larger context of the book, the parenthetical citation can include just the chapter and verse(s).

In the Gospel of John, Jesus tells Nicodemus you must be “born again” (3:3). Nicodemus responds with a sense of bewilderment and Jesus declares that he must “be born of water and the Spirit” (3:5).

Identification of the Version of the Bible

            References to Bible versions should not include the publisher’s information in either the footnotes or bibliography. Instead, refer to bible versions by their standard abbreviations in the body of the paper (e.g., NIV, ESV, NASB, NRSV; see “Abbreviations of Bible Versions” in this guide, also SBLHS2 8.3.1-3).

If one version of the Bible is used throughout the paper, identify the version in a footnote. After the first time the Bible is used in the paper, a footnotes with a phrase such as “All references are from the NASB and for all future references unless noted” will suffice. If, on the other hand, various versions are used, these must be identified with each reference otherwise the reader will not know the version. This should be done in the parenthetical citation, e.g., (John 3:3 NASB).

How to Indicate Chapter and Verse in Biblical References

References to Biblical passages should not use the word “chapter” or “verse” between the chapter or verse numbers. Instead, the chapter should be represented by an Arabic numeral, followed by a colon, followed by the Arabic numeral for the verse or verse range. For example, the sixteenth verse of the third chapter of the Gospel of John would be referred to as “John 3:16,” not “John chapter 3 verse 16.”

How to List Multiple Biblical References

            If multiple biblical passages are in a list, separate verses by a comma, but separate chapters and books by a semicolon. Use an en dash to show a range of verses. For example:

            Matthew 6:16, 18; 17:21; 20:16; Mark 7:8; 16:9–20; Luke 11:2–4, 6; John 7:53–8:11.

• << Previous: Style & Format
• Next: Footnotes & Bibliography >>
• Last Updated: Apr 3, 2024 4:13 PM
• URL: https://nelson.libguides.com/styleguide

Citing the Bible and other Biblical Resources

• Turabian Style

Turabian Style -- General Guidelines

Footnotes/endnotes/parenthetical references.

• Chicago Style
• Citing Bible Commentaries
• Print Examples
• Database Examples
• Web Examples
• Citing Bible Atlases
• Citation Key

Referring to whole chapters/whole books of the Bible or Apocrypha in the text

• Spell out the names of the books; do not italicize or underline them.   

  Example :  2 Samuel 12 records the prophet Nathan’s confrontation of King David.

  Example :  The identity of the author of the book of Hebrews is not certain.

Cite the Bible in footnotes, endnotes, or parenthetical citations.  

• You do not need to include the Bible in your bibliography/reference list.

When you are citing a particular passage of Scripture  

• Include the abbreviated name of the book, the chapter number, and the verse number—never a page number. 
• Chapter and verse are separated by a colon.

Example :  1 Cor. 13:4, 15:12-19

Example :  Gn 1:1-2, 2:1-3; Jn 1:1-14

Turabian includes two lists of abbreviations for books of the Bible.  

• A traditional abbreviation list and a shorter abbreviation list. 
• Access  the lists of abbreviations . 
• You may use either list, but be consistent throughout your paper.  Or if you like, you may check with your professor.

Include the name of the version you are citing . 

• Spell out the name of the version, at least in the first reference, or use abbreviations without preceding or internal punctuation. 
• After the first citation indicate the version only if you quote from another version.

** Information taken from A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations , 9 th ed., 2018, sections 17.8.2, 19.8.2, and 24.6.1-4. Note:  A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations , edited by Kate L. Turabian, is an abbreviated version of The Chicago Manual of Style .

• << Previous: MLA Style
• Next: Chicago Style >>
• Last Updated: Feb 16, 2024 2:38 PM
• URL: https://hbl.gcc.libguides.com/citebible

Guide to Chicago/Turabian Style for Seminarians

• Elements of a Paper in Chicago Style
• When and Why to Cite Your Sources
• Citing Sources: The Three Requirements
• How to Use "Ibid."
• Creating Footnotes in MS Word or Google Docs
• Examples of Citations in Chicago Style
• Citing the Bible, and Citing the Notes in a Study Bible
• Citing a Source Within a Source
• Seminary Research Ring

How to Cite the Bible in a Chicago-Style Paper

Confusingly, the Bible (as well as epic poems like Paradise Lost , and ancient sources like Josephus or the Church Fathers) is cited differently than most secondary source material in Chicago style. For the Bible, just as you would with any other source, you should offer a full citation in your bibliography and in the first footnote reference to the specific edition of the text to which you are referring. This is because there are many different version of the Bible, and your information pertains specifically to the one you’re using. However, instead of citing a page number in your footnote, you should give an appropriate reference in parentheses at the end of your sentence. Moreover, after you have given a full footnote citation, you no longer need to footnote the text at all; simply provide the necessary information in parentheses within the body of your paper. Examples follow.

Bibliography Attridge, Harold W., et al., eds. The HarperCollins Study Bible: New Revised Standard Version, with the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical Books . San Francisco: HarperSanFrancisco, 2006.

First footnote

1 Harold W. Attridge et al., eds., The HarperCollins Study Bible: New Revised Standard Version, with the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical Books (San Francisco: HarperSanFrancisco, 2006).

In the body of your paper

“He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years, and threw him into the pit, and locked and sealed it over him, so that he would deceive the nations no more, until the thousand years were ended. After that he must be let out for a little while” (Revelation 20:2-3).

Note that the first time you identify a biblical book in your paper, the book name is spelled out fully. Any subsequent reference to that biblical book should be abbreviated with no period after the abbreviation (ex., Rev 20:4-5).

Citing the Notes in a Study Bible

If you refer in your paper to the commentary-style notes in a study Bible, you should credit the author of the notes. There will typically be a list of contributors in the book's front matter, which will identify who wrote the introduction and notes to each biblical book. Here is an example of a first footnote and subsequent footnote for

1 Mark E. Biddle, Notes on Jeremiah, The New Oxford Annotated Bible (augmented 3rd ed., NRSV, Michael D. Coogan et al., eds., Oxford/New York: Oxford University Press, 2007), 1142.

3 Biddle, Notes on Jeremiah, 1144.

For your bibliography, assuming you are using that version of the Bible for all the biblical references in your paper, you only need to cite the version of the Bible -- you do not need a separate bibliographic entry for the author of the study notes.

• << Previous: Examples of Citations in Chicago Style
• Next: Citing a Source Within a Source >>
• Last Updated: Jan 22, 2024 3:22 PM
• URL: https://upsem.libguides.com/chicago

Using the Bible in Academic Writing

• Post author By Collin Kavanaugh
• Post date March 26, 2021
• 1 Comment on Using the Bible in Academic Writing

This post was co-authored by Collin Kavanaugh, Abby Long, and Monica Colón.

A common misconception about writing in a Christian academic setting (such as Wheaton) is that you’re expected to reference the Bible in all of your writing assignments. While it’s effective to incorporate in some genres of writing, scripture isn’t appropriate evidence for every scholarly writing occasion.

This post will help you identify when to use biblical references and how to do so persuasively for your genre and audience.

Identify Your Rhetorical Purpose

Before you decide whether or not scripture is an appropriate source for your assignment, determine your rhetorical purpose for writing. Is it to reflect on your personal experiences? Make an ethical claim? Advance an historical interpretation? Explicate scripture? Further a scientific hypothesis? Conduct a literary analysis? Evaluate a social policy?

Referencing scripture may or may not be an effective persuasive strategy for your purpose. Next, consider your intended audience.

Identify Your Audience

When writing for a general academic audience, you can’t assume that your readers will share your religious beliefs. Therefore, the Bible may not be considered an undeniable source of information. Appeals to the Bible’s moral, ethical, or historical authority may be unconvincing to many in a general academic audience. 

While scripture may not serve as persuasive evidence for a general audience, biblical allusions can be appropriate in some cases. However, when writing to a wider audience, consider whether the biblical reference is well-known or more obscure. If the allusion is unfamiliar to most readers, contextualize it with a brief explanation to make sure your audience knows what you are referencing and why you are making that particular reference.

If you are writing for a more narrow audience with a shared belief in scriptural authority, such as a Wheaton College professor or your classmates, it may be appropriate to reference the Bible, depending on the genre of your piece. 

Identify Your Genre Norms

Genres within different academic disciplines, such as the sciences, humanities, and biblical studies, all call for different ways of interacting with scripture. Having a firm sense of your genre  will guide your use of the Bible in a particular paper. Outside of exegetical and applied biblical studies, the Bible is generally not seen as a persuasive source of authority for academic arguments. 

Academic research papers. When writing a scholarly research paper, avoid using the Bible as evidence for an empirical argument. One notable exception is when your argument centers on analysis of the practices, behaviors, or policies of the church or a group of Christians. The key here is to illustrate how a particular theological interpretation of a specific passage, theme, or doctrine has functioned historically to shape the pattern you are analyzing. In this case, you can reference a biblical passage followed by your analysis of the way it has been interpreted and enacted by the group in question.

Scientific writing. As the Rev. Canon Emily McGowin, Ph.D. notes, “In the hard and soft sciences, it’s not appropriate to use the Bible to support one’s theses because the audience, not to mention the broader field of inquiry, doesn’t generally recognize scripture as an authoritative source.”   

Literary analysis. When you notice a biblical allusion in a literary text, you can use it as evidence to support your interpretation of the work. You can also use close reading methods on the Bible as literature itself—though if you’re not familiar with Greek and Hebrew, it’s wise to stay at the narrative level and avoid making claims about the diction and syntax. However, you can examine the linguistic effect of different translation choices in the languages you speak.

Biblical exegesis. When writing an exegetical paper, it is, of course, appropriate to reference the Bible extensively. Carefully select a passage and, if appropriate, conduct an analysis of the word choice, grammar, and syntax in the original language. Be sure to consider the literary and historical contexts of the selected passage. Finally, explore applications of the text. To get started, visit this library subject guide or check out Elements of Biblical Exegesis by Michael Gorman.

Reflective writing. In many general education classes at Wheaton, your professor may assign a personal theological reflection, either as a stand-alone piece or as a section of another assignment. In these cases, you can bring in biblical anecdotes, verses, or concepts that you find meaningful and explain their personal significance. Still, you’ll want to avoid making overly complex or prescriptive claims if you haven’t done much interpretive work on the passage in question.

Guidelines for Using the Bible in Your Writing

If using the Bible is appropriate for your rhetorical purpose, audience, and genre, consider these tips. 

Avoid “prooftexting.” Prooftexting is when you take a verse or phrase from the Bible completely out of context to support your point, and it is generally considered a misuse of scripture. While it can be tempting to simply drop in a Bible verse, it is important to carefully consider the context, meaning, and purpose of the verse so you do not undermine your integrity through misapplications of scripture. 

Justify your use of scripture. When writing for a general academic audience, the Rev. Dr. McGowin points out that “you’re going to need to explain and make a case for why the Bible is relevant to the subject in question. Also, you’re going to have to give more contextual information for the scriptural reference.”

Dive into commentaries. If your argument rests on an interpretation of scripture, it is essential that you explore the ways the passage has been interpreted in a variety of historical and cultural contexts. Look to biblical commentaries to learn more about the history of the passage in question.

Cite the Bible correctly. Most citation guides have specific rules for citing sacred texts such as the Bible. Look up the manual for your particular citation style for specific guidance about abbreviations, in-text citations, reference page entries, and/or footnotes. (Note: The Writing Center is working on an online resource for this, and we will link it here when it’s live.) If you are unsure about your recommended citation style, check with your professor or academic department. Finally, feel free to make an appointment at the Writing Center to get assistance!

One reply on “Using the Bible in Academic Writing”

[…] no matter what sphere of society you end up serving in: whether that is music, art criticism, or theology. You will also benefit from writing both in the professional world and in your personal […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Home / Guides / Citation Guides / Chicago Style / How To Cite the Bible in Chicago/Turabian

How To Cite the Bible in Chicago/Turabian

When citing the Bible in Chicago style, the citation structure remains the same no matter what format of Bible you are using (in print, online, etc.). This guide will show you how to cite the Bible in notes-bibliography style using the 17th edition of the Chicago Manual of Style .

Bible – Any Bible in Print, on a Website, or in an Online Database

In Chicago, it is not necessary to cite scripture from the Bible in your bibliography. Instead, citation information should only be included in the notes. Since there are many different versions of the Bible, you should be sure to specify which version you are referring to in the note.

Note Structure:

1. Abbreviated Book Chapter:Verse(s) (Version Name).

Note Example:

1. Gen. 3:2-5 (New International Version).

Chicago Formatting Guide

Chicago Formatting

• Book Chapter
• Conference Paper
• Musical Recording

Citation Examples

• Thesis or Dissertation
• Encyclopedia
• Sheet Music
• YouTube Video

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

Chicago Citation Examples

Writing Tools

Citation Generators

Other Citation Styles

Plagiarism Checker

Upload a paper to check for plagiarism against billions of sources and get advanced writing suggestions for clarity and style.

Get Started

How to Cite Sources in SBL and Format Papers: Citing the Bible

• Citing the Bible
• CCEL (Christian Classics Ethereal Library)
• Commentaries
• Theses and Dissertations
• Encyclopedia and Lexicon Entries
• Journal Article
• Motion Pictures/Videos
• Formats for Paper
• Formats for Presentations or Websites

SBL - 8.2 and 8.3.1-3, *Turabian 9th edition – 17.8.2 and 24.6

*Do not include the Bible and other sacred works in the bibliography.

Cite Bible verses with chapter and verse(s) using arabic numerals separated by a colon. Do not write out the numbers.

YES:     John 5:8-9

NO:     John chapter five verses eight and nine.

Use abbreviations for the books of the Bible when citing texts or referencing them. Do not abbreviate the name of the book if it starts a sentence or is a reference to the entire book or the author.

YES:     Revelation 3 begins with the letter to the church in Sardis.

             We know little about the historical Habakkuk.

NO:     Rev 3 begins with the letter to the church in Sardis.

           We know little about the historical Hab.

When quoting the biblical text you should include the version being quoted the first time a version is being used. It will be assumed that you will continue to use that same translation throughout your paper. If you change translations, you must indicate the change. Quoting the biblical text does not require a footnote or a citation in the reference page. You would only cite the Bible, in notes or reference page, if you used study notes, commentary, articles or maps.

"Now Ahab had seventy sons in Samaria" (2 Kgs 10:1 NRSV).

Other quotations would leave out the reference to the translation.

A note about numerals and numbers

Numbers are typically spelled out for zero through ninety-nine, especially if it is done in two words. Numbers like 2.543 are written with numerals even though they are less than one hundred. Numbers greater than 100 are often presented as numerals, with some exceptions for numbers that can be written in two word, e.g. four thousand. If the number is to be followed by a measurement, e.g. milliliters, then use numerals and not words. The important aspect is to keep consistent; if a paragraph is presenting mathematical data and one place the data is a round number, continue to use the numerals as that is consistent.

Do not begin a sentence with a numeral.

When citing a Biblical passage, use numerals. The exception is when the numeral would start a sentence, in which case write out the number, e.g. First Peter 2:4 is an important verse....

• << Previous: Home
• Next: Books >>
• Last Updated: May 23, 2024 1:04 PM
• URL: https://apu.libguides.com/sblcitations