This Very Short Introduction looks at the importance accorded to the Bible by different communities and cultures and attempts to explain why it has generated such a rich variety of uses and interpretations. It explores how the Bible was written, the development of the canon, the role of Biblical criticism, the appropriation of the Bible in high and popular culture, and its use for political ends.

The Bible in the modern world: classic or sacred text? -- How the Bible was written -- the making of the Bible -- The Bible in the world of the belieivers -- The Bible and its critics -- The Bible in the post-colonial world -- The bible in high and popular culture -- The Bible in politics -- Conclusion.