how to know if a bible is catholic

Daniel Parker

2 min read

·

21-01-2025

1

0

Share

Determining if a Bible is Catholic involves looking beyond just the cover. Several key features distinguish Catholic Bibles from Protestant ones. This guide will help you identify these differences, ensuring you select the right Bible for your needs.

Key Differences Between Catholic and Protestant Bibles

The primary difference lies in the number of books. Catholic Bibles include seven additional books in the Old Testament, known as the deuterocanonical books. Protestant Bibles omit these books, referring to them as apocryphal.

Catholic Bibles contain:

• 73 books: 46 Old Testament books (including the deuterocanonical books) and 27 New Testament books.

Protestant Bibles contain:

• 66 books: 39 Old Testament books and 27 New Testament books.

How to Identify a Catholic Bible: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check the Table of Contents: The most straightforward method. A Catholic Bible's table of contents will list the seven deuterocanonical books: Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach (Ecclesiasticus), Baruch, 1 Maccabees, and 2 Maccabees. These books are often placed between the Old and New Testaments or at the end of the Old Testament section.

2. Count the Books: A simple count of the books will tell you definitively whether it's a Catholic or Protestant Bible. 73 books indicate a Catholic Bible; 66 indicate a Protestant one.

3. Look for Publisher Information: Many Catholic Bibles will clearly state on the cover or title page that they are a "Catholic Edition" or will be published by a Catholic publishing house. Familiar publishers include Ignatius Press, Catholic Book Publishing, and others.

4. Examine the Introduction or Preface: Many Bibles include introductory material explaining their theological perspective and the selection of included books. Catholic Bibles will typically justify the inclusion of the deuterocanonical books and their theological significance.

5. Check for Apocrypha/Deuterocanonical Section: If you find a section clearly labeled "Apocrypha" or "Deuterocanonical Books," it’s a strong indicator that the Bible is Catholic. Note that the term used may vary slightly.

Understanding the Deuterocanonical Books

The seven deuterocanonical books were considered canonical (belonging to the Bible) by the early Church and are still accepted as such by the Catholic Church. However, the Protestant Reformation resulted in their exclusion from many Protestant Bibles. This difference stems from differing views on biblical canon within Christianity. The Catholic Church considers these books inspired scripture, while Protestant churches generally do not.

Beyond the Book Count: Other Considerations

While the book count and inclusion of the deuterocanonical books are the most reliable indicators, some other things to note:

• Translations: While some translations are used predominantly by one denomination or another (like the New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE) which is commonly used by Catholics), the translation itself doesn't automatically determine Catholicity.

• Annotations and Introductions: Catholic Bibles often include extensive annotations and introductions that reflect Catholic theological interpretations. These are helpful resources but aren’t the definitive way to determine if a Bible is Catholic.

• Presentation and Format: While a beautiful, ornate cover might suggest a Catholic Bible, this is purely aesthetic and not a reliable way to distinguish one.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Bible

Understanding the differences between Catholic and Protestant Bibles is crucial for selecting the right one for your faith tradition and personal study. By carefully examining the table of contents, counting the books, and reviewing the publisher information, you can confidently determine if a Bible aligns with Catholic teachings. Remember, the inclusion of the deuterocanonical books is the defining factor.