Understanding the Bible: Origins, Structure, and Key Concepts
The Bible: An Introduction
The Bible is a collection of books on varied topics. They are united by the theme of God’s love for humanity. It originates from the experiences of people who felt loved by God. This process involves:
- Experiencing God’s intervention in life and history.
- Reflecting on these experiences and expressing faith in God.
- Sharing these important experiences as gifts from God.
- Writing down this faith to preserve the experience.
Old and New Testaments
Old Testament: 46 books, collecting the history of Israel from its origins to the birth of Jesus.
New Testament: 27 books, including the four Gospels that tell the story of Jesus, the Acts of the Apostles, letters describing the life of early Christians, and the Apocalypse.
These texts were written in Hebrew and Greek, translated into Latin, and later translated for wider accessibility with the advent of the printing press.
Literary Styles of the Bible
Each age and author had their own way of telling their story. The Bible encompasses various literary genres:
- History: Narratives of significant events in Israel’s history.
- Parable: Short stories with a moral about God and people.
- Epic: Legends extolling the heroes of Israel.
- Mythological: Narratives using myth to answer fundamental human questions.
- Wisdom: Proverbs and sayings reflecting the wisdom of those who lived by trusting in God.
- Prophetic Books: Texts speaking of God’s message.
- Epistolary: Letters teaching communities and sharing faith.
- Apocalyptic: Texts addressing suffering while conveying hope.
The Bible tells the story of the people of Israel over nearly 2000 years, written by different people with specific intentions.
Key Components of the Old Testament
- Pentateuch: The first five books, reflecting Israel’s early relationship with God.
- Chroniclers: Authors who retold Israel’s history from a religious perspective.
- Prophets: Books in which God speaks out against injustice, offering hope.
- Poets and Sages: Authors who wrote about God artistically.
The New Testament: Evangelists and Letters
- Evangelists: Four writers who shared the story of Jesus with the first communities.
- Letters: Writings from the apostles to the early communities, offering valuable insights into their lives.
God’s Message
God communicates love through the harmony of nature, human history, and both joys and sufferings.
The People of Israel
The People of Israel are a sign of God’s presence in humanity. Key moments in this story of love include:
- God of Abraham
- God of Moses
- God of David
- God of Jeremiah
- God of Ezra
Judaism
Judaism continues to live by its covenant with God, centered on the Torah. Following the Jewish Revolt against Rome and the destruction of Jerusalem, Judaism is based on these pillars:
- Synagogue: A center for prayer, meeting, and study.
- Circumcision: A sign of belonging to the community.
- Sabbath: A time to contemplate God and creation, during which no work is to be done.
The Evangelists
- Mark: Associated with Jerusalem, converted by Peter and Paul. Wrote the first Gospel, intended for Roman Christians. Main Idea: Jesus’ life is God’s victory over evil. Symbol: Lion.
- Luke: A doctor of pagan origin. Wrote his Gospel for Christians from pagan backgrounds, portraying Jesus as a savior. Symbol: Bull.
- Matthew: Tradition holds that Matthew wrote this Gospel, believing the author was a Christian familiar with the social and religious environment of Palestine. Written for believers from Judaism. Symbol: Angel.
- John: The author is uncertain, though believed to be John the Apostle. Written for Palestinian Christians from Judaism, emphasizing the divinity and humanity of Jesus. Uses symbolic language. Symbol: Eagle.