Great Introduction to Orthodoxy
I have really enjoyed my copy of the The Orthodox Study Bible: Ancient Christianity Speaks to Today’s World from Thomas Nelson. I come from a primarily “Protestant” background and the short introduction to the Orthodox Church was very helpful for me to understand just who is the Orthodox Church. I’m sure there is much more to know than the information contained in the short introduction, but it is a good starting point for someone who has no idea.
I found the other introductory material very informative as well, such as a chart showing differences between the Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Protestant canons as well as a short overview of all of the books. The introduction to each of the books is to-the-point. The font used in printing is easy on the eyes.
But what makes this Bible unique is the English translation from the Septuagint and the notes throughout the text. The Old Testament text is very readable and in modern vernacular. The verse notes are “stable,” in that they are based on a tradition that advocates reading the Scriptures in community rather than the latest fad. I will continue to enjoy reading not only the Protestant canon but the Orthodox canon as well.
One thing I miss in this particular volume is a bookmark. I know, it’s a small thing, and there are plenty of things around I can use instead, but that would be a nice feature for future printings.
I read this as part of Thomas Nelson Book Review Blogger Program.
