"The Bible: A Very Short Introduction explores the material, cultural, and religious history of the Bible. The Bible is both one of the most read and the most influential books in the world. Its stories form the heart of Western civilization, while biblical language is interwoven into literature and everyday speech. As a source of shared Abrahamic beliefs, it has both drawn communities together and fuelled bitter disputes. This VSI examines how the books of the Bible have been read and interpreted by different communities across the centuries, including post-colonial and feminist readings of the Bible. It also surveys the Bible's role in art, music, poetry, and politics"-- Provided by publisher.

Previous edition: 2000.

The Bible in the modern world: classic or sacred text? -- How the biblical books were written -- The making of the Bible -- Translation, production, and distribution of the Bible -- Jewish and Christian readings of the binding of Isaac -- Galatians through history -- The Bible and its critics -- The Bible in the post-colonial world -- The Bible in politics -- The Bible in high and popular culture -- Conclusion.