Ignatius Catholic Study Bible: Old and New Testaments

I will qualify my review by stating that I am Catholic-adjacent, and considering entering into the Catholic church soon. I will also add that I am a lifelong student of the Bible. Studying scripture is my single biggest hobby, and I am also a Christian author. Anyways, here's my review. The Ignatius Press Study Bible is unbelievable. I've had mine for 3 weeks, and I'm convinced this is the best study Bible on the market (perhaps only second to the Word on Fire Bible, which isn't really the same). Before I bought it, I borrowed several competing study Bibles from friends and the Library, and there's really no comparison – the Ignatius Press Study Bible, which took around 25 years to complete from what I've heard, is the only one of its kind. I've read about 5-6 of the included essays, and they were all brilliantly written, and I learned quite a bit from them. The commentary strikes a good balance between modern scholarship and traditional beliefs. It doesn't shy away from the tough questions (i.e. the divine council in the OT, the glorification of killing in Joshua, the multiple authors of Isaiah, etc.) That said, it mostly leans conservative with its interpretations (e.g., it never hints at parts of Genesis or Joshua as being ahistorical, or anything like that). The style of interpretation didn't feel surface level at all. Unlike many of the competing study Bibles I read, the Ignatius Press Study Bible has already taught me a ton. It has notes on the cultural contexts, the Hebrew and Greek wording, quotes from the Church Fathers, etc. In fact, some of the pages had so much commentary that there were more footnotes than actual Scripture (the first page of Genesis only gets through three verses because the commentary is so stacked!) It has the typical notes you'd expect (e.g., explaining difficult passages), but also, typological and anagogical interpretations that I'd never have come to on my own. That said, I still find myself googling often. There aren't a ton of notes on the poetic and chaistic structure of the text. There also aren't Strongs numbers for looking up Hebrew and Greek words. The style of commentary is definitely a better fit for a Catholic than for a Messianic Jew or someone who really skews towards the Jewish roots of the faith. In fact, this study Bible is unapologetically Catholic. But that is its greatest strength. This Bible is a behemoth. It's almost as wide as a tin can. I can't imagine getting the floppy leather version – hard back is the only way to go. In fact, while looking into which version to get, I learned that many people returned their floppy leather versions to get the hardback version. So maybe do yourself the favor and do that ahead of time. One strange omission is that there are no bookmark ribbons. Also, there are no tabs on the side to easily find the book you're looking for. That's not a big deal, but I wanted to mention it. As far as the RSV-2 translation goes, I find it to be very readable except for the way it translates the names of people and places. There's often weird apostrophes (e.g., Abraham's brother is Na'hor instead of Nahor.) Otherwise, I find it to be just as readable as ESV, NASB, and other mainline translations.

36 years old and I never read a Bible. I did try as a child- the ancestry chapters lost me. I never really had a guide. Catholics don't typically do Bibles. But now I have been moved to try again. I didn't even know a Catholic Study Bible was a thing until I stumbled across it. Can I call it a Godsend without sounding like a pun? It is the word of God, passed through centuries of faithful scholars and Saints. Every page of scripture has the verses on the top and a corresponding analysis on the bottom. There are NUMEROUS essays that have really helped me understand. Many of my questions have been answered. There are some WEIRD things happening in the Bible. But now I see- it's not the Bible that's weird- it all makes perfect sense when it's explained. If you're wondering why on earth is there a part about the family escaping Sodom and Gomorrah only for the surviving daughters to get their dad drunk and betray him- the answer is here. If you're wondering why Noah is bumbling around naked and yelling at his sons, the answer is here. If you're wondering why everybody is washing each other's feet- it's here. If you're wondering what part of the Red Sea was parted in Exodus- they have maps. If you want to know if that's what someone REALLY meant- it's here. This Bible provides asterisks throughout whenever a word has more than one possible translation- they explain WHY they chose the meaning that they did. It often has to do with following the writer's patterns of use with that word in other areas. It's also a great history lesson. Why are these specific books included in the Catholic version and not others? It's here. Timelines are provided for Adam to Noah to Jesus. MANY maps are included of the Holy Land to include the various name changes over the centuries. You will learn God's word and so much more. It also tells us who the authors REALLY are- by providing most common beliefs, theories, and evidence. It always provides a few possible options. Did you know the Old Testament features one righteous line of descendants and one wicked? It is laid out here. So if you're wondering why we are reading about horrible people, what is the purpose- it's to illustrate the wicked blood line who will later be enemies of Israel. If you're wondering why Abraham's wife, Sarah, tells him to sleep with her maid to have a child- this explains it. Back then it was basic surrogacy. I could NOT comprehend the morality of it all without context. I can't imagine how anyone could. There is also an AMAZING index. I posted a photo of one. There's also an index of parables and metaphors of Jesus. A chart that will list miracles of Jesus and then reference each Gospel it was featured in and compare. The cover and binding are still perfectly intact despite being dragged all over the place, trampled by my dog, attacked by my toddler, and shared with my six year old. It's full of underlining, flag notes, and post-its. It's not cheaply made. It will last years of reading, re-reading, and sharing. I feel confident this book will allow me to answer my children's questions one day. I had those questions and the answers were not to my satisfaction. I took a sad pause from religion for 20 years or so- mainly because of unanswered questions. I am back, praise and glory to God. I am so glad I found this book. Seek Him and you will find Him. He is waiting for you.

So incredibly and thoroughly researched and chock full of relevant notes for study. I don't think I've seen a more relevant Catholic Bible in all my years as a cradle Catholic. Elegantly printed and bound, excellently researched and written commentary, this is THE Bible for all serious students of the Catholic faith, or anyone interested reading the honest, truthful tenets of the faith. What a joy this is to have, what a joy that we Catholics now have a Bible that brings our faith to us in an concise, helpful and understandable way.

This is the best study Bible I have ever read! The amount of details in the notes is incredible and has already helped me to better understand the context, intention, and multiple meanings behind our Lord, Jesus Christ, words. I can’t wait to dive into this Bible even deeper - I’m going to start Fr. Mike Schmitz’s Bible in a year podcast using this study Bible since it is the RSV2CE translation that Fr. Mike uses on his podcast. This is a quality study Bible that uses a great translation that is easy to read but stays on the more literal end of the scale. I highly recommend it!

This is a large book!!! If you are not carrying it around this is most definitely a Study Bible you should buy. If you want a smaller version, there is the "Personal Sized" Version with slightly smaller # 9 point font and thinner pages. The larger version is ideal for me though and my older eyes. It has # 10 point font. The Bible itself is the Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition translation (RSV2CE) complete Old and New Testaments in a single volume. It is not just a "Catholic" only Bible though and it is perfectly suited for Protestants that desire to have a complete resource for scriptures. Each Chapter has a very well written, through introduction, which is Bible Study level detail . There are also explanatory notes for each biblical outlines, word studies, maps, cross references, cultural historical, archaeological notes, and absolutely amazing attention to detail given to almost every verse. I was impressed that some pages only have a few verses and an entire page of notes and explanations. I own several Protestant Study Bibles, but none have this level and depth of detail. I liked it so much have have bought another full sized version and 2 personal sized copies as gifts. The feedback I have received from the people I gifted them to are they are just as thrilled, if not more, than I am with this Bible.

This study bible is a work of art! Scott Hahn and his team put in over 26 years of research and analysis to provide the most comprehensive interpretation of both Old and New Testament scripture. Through their incredible efforts they have provided insight that only astute theologians possess. Connecting the dots between old and new testament and perhaps just as importantly interpreting things through the lens of the people who lived in Jesus' time provides a tremendous amount of insight. Understanding the meaning of what was written in the original Greek or Hebrew sheds a bright light on the truth's of the Christian faith. Its unfortunate that things get lost in translation. This goes for any language but providing context helps the reader better understand what is being professed. This study bible is worth every penny and more! Would HIGHLY recommend it!!

The Ignatius Catholic Study Bible: Old and New Testaments is truly the gold standard of study Bibles. It stands out not only for its comprehensive approach to Scripture but also for the depth of commentary and scholarly insight it provides. The study notes, compiled by Scott Hahn and Curtis Mitch, are a masterclass in theology and exegesis, seamlessly blending historical context, Church teachings, and practical application. The annotations are rooted in Catholic tradition, making them invaluable for deepening one’s understanding of Scripture in line with Church teaching. Yet, they remain accessible for those new to Bible study. What sets this Bible apart is its meticulous attention to detail. The commentary addresses key doctrinal points, clarifies challenging passages, and highlights connections between the Old and New Testaments that illuminate the unity of God’s plan of salvation. The inclusion of references to the Catechism of the Catholic Church is particularly helpful, offering readers a fuller picture of how Scripture informs the Catholic faith. The layout is another highlight. The text is easy to read, with clear division between Scripture and commentary. The maps, essays, and introductory materials for each book are thoughtfully designed and incredibly informative. It feels like having a seminary-level course in your hands. Whether you’re a lifelong Catholic, a curious Christian, or someone exploring faith, this Bible will be a source of inspiration and understanding. It’s not just a Bible; it’s a study tool, a spiritual guide, and a connection to the richness of Catholic tradition. If you’re looking for a study Bible that combines rigorous scholarship, faithful adherence to Catholic teaching, and practical insights, the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible is unparalleled. It’s an investment in your spiritual journey and an absolute treasure for any Christian library.

By far the largest book in every dimension I own. I highly recommend the hardcover as with it being this size I think the leather would be annoyingly floppy and awkward. As far as the content, i think it’s by far the best study bible if you are a Catholic who wants to study the Bible. It is conservative and faithful to Catholic thought and also goes in deep. I appreciate the many articles on various topics as well as the many helps throughout like word studies, charts, etc. As a sort of inquiring Protestant myself it is a go to to get a Roman Catholic viewpoint on some of the debated passages

I'm quite glad for this purchase. I live in Italy. Amazon delivered it earlier than expected. Negative note: they did not inform me about the early delivery. No major issues. I bought a Bonded Leather Book. Beautiful. The font size is satisfying for all ages. No page is missing. I checked it.

One of the most Amazing study Bibles

Great notes , I didn’t expect it to be as big as it is but I took a look at the notes and I was impressed with them 👍 Also most as big as one chad mode from choq

Leather bound is better just need to take care of book properly. Leather bound opens flat easy to read hardcover becomes difficult to keep steady and open flat which is very irritating. Quality is good.

I don't normally do reviews but as I have been looking for a particular catholic bible for some time and this is the one I've been waiting for I cannot help leave a review. First of all the package itself, it travelled well. The dust sleeve it comes with tuck the brunt on the impact through travel. The bible itself, beautiful leather and fantastic quality. Now on opening the bible I have heard people say they are missing pages. John being the affected pages on page 1883. I can confirm that the pages are all intact in my copy. Inside the bible is the contents pages, abbreviations, contributing writers, Introduction to the Ignatius Catholic study bible, The Catholic church and sacred scripture, The Catholic canon of scripture, overview of salvation history, introduction to the Pentateuch and then before every story in the bible is an introduction to the story. Half the pages are bible stories other half is bible study. There are fantastic charts and charts scattered throughout, word study the list goes on. Highly recommend this bible to everyone. A must have for any catholic but also worth an investment for people of different faiths due to the extra apocrypha. I am having so much fun reading this and studying the bible in a never before way. Thank you to Ignatius for working over the 20 something years to create this.