The "Bible" is a central feature in the religious beliefs and devotions of most Christians - and a major portion of it, known as the "Old Testament," is important to Jews. Muslims, whose holy scriptures are collected in the Qur'an, also revere the Bible. But just what is the Bible? What is contained in it, where did it come from, and how reliable is it? This developing FAQ will present historical and critical information about the Bible and biblical scholarship.
Biblical Prophecies
Have biblical prophecies really come true? Many believers claim that the fulfillment of prophecies found in their Bible is evidence that it has supernatural origins. But which, if any, prophecies really were accurate?Bible and Science
Is the Bible a scientific text? Some believers argue that the Bible contains scientific information which was recorded thousands of years ago - long before modern science "rediscovered" it independently. This is then used as evidence of the Bible's supernatural origins - but are these arguments valid?Old Testament Laws
There are a lot of really unpleasant laws to be found in the Old Testament. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem - the laws for most ancient cultures would be considered barbaric today, but that was simply the nature of life at the time. However, why would a loving god insist on such barbaric laws? Why not hold people to better standards?Bible and Communism
Many conservative and fundamentalist theologians have long condemned communism - not simply because many supporters were also opposed to religion, but because communism is, in principle, ungodly. But what does the Bible really say about basic communist principles?Original Sin
The doctrine of Original Sin is an important feature of Christianity, explaining why humans need the saving grace of God and the sacrifice of Jesus. However, the biblical record on the notion that all humans are tainted by Adam's original disobedience is not entirely clear or univocal.Bible and Salvation
Many Christians argue that salvation can only come through believing in the sacrifice offered by Jesus Christ. A few, however, argue that through this sacrifice and/or through God's grace, everyone will be saved, regardless of their actual beliefs. What does the Bible have to say on this matter? In fact, the Bible is not entirely clear which position is definitely correct.
Glossary: Religion & Philosophy
This extensive glossary provides detailed information on philosophical and religious concepts, from
abandonment to
Zeno of Elea!
(over 2400 entries total)
