How to Cite from the Bible
Citing from the Bible is an essential part of academic writing, especially in religious studies, theology, and biblical scholarship. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original source but also ensures that readers can easily locate the specific passage being referenced. In this article, we will discuss the different citation styles commonly used for citing the Bible and provide guidelines on how to cite from the Bible accurately.
1. Modern Language Association (MLA) Citation Style
The MLA citation style is widely used in the humanities and is also applicable for citing the Bible. To cite a Bible verse in MLA format, you need to include the book, chapter, and verse numbers, followed by the translation name and edition, if applicable.
Example:
– King James Version (KJV): Romans 3:23 (KJV)
If you need to include a page number, place it after the verse reference:
– Romans 3:23 (KJV): 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.
2. American Psychological Association (APA) Citation Style
The APA citation style is commonly used in the social sciences. To cite a Bible verse in APA format, you need to include the book, chapter, and verse numbers, followed by the translation name, year of publication, and edition, if applicable.
Example:
– New International Version (NIV): Romans 3:23 (NIV, 1984)
If you need to include a page number, place it after the verse reference:
– Romans 3:23 (NIV, 1984): 23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (p. 8).
3. Chicago Manual of Style (CMS) Citation Style
The CMS citation style is used in a variety of academic fields. To cite a Bible verse in CMS format, you need to include the book, chapter, and verse numbers, followed by the translation name and edition, if applicable.
Example:
– New Revised Standard Version (NRSV): Romans 3:23 (NRSV)
If you need to include a page number, place it after the verse reference:
– Romans 3:23 (NRSV): 23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (p. 8).
4. Author-Date Citation Style
The author-date citation style is commonly used in the sciences and social sciences. To cite a Bible verse in author-date format, you need to include the book, chapter, and verse numbers, followed by the translation name, year of publication, and edition, if applicable.
Example:
– (Smith 2005, Romans 3:23)
If you need to include a page number, place it after the verse reference:
– (Smith 2005, Romans 3:23): 23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (p. 8).
In conclusion, citing from the Bible is an important aspect of academic writing. By following the appropriate citation style and including all necessary information, you can ensure that your work is properly credited and your readers can easily locate the specific passages being referenced.
