Bible

For referencing of biblical texts the University of Divinity observes the latest edition of The SBL Handbook of Style available online via the UD Library Hub. Alternatively, you can access the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) Student Supplement Handbook.

Bibles are not usually listed in the bibliography (except in particular types of essays, for example, a historical or missional theology study of the publication of particular Bible editions and translations).

When referencing the Bible, there are a number of referencing rules for how the specific references are made in the text as well as in footnotes and your bibliography.

1. Short biblical references are displayed in parentheses
2. Multiple bible references are separated by semicolons
3. Specify the translation after the verse in abbreviated form
4. If using the same translation throughout your work, this is only needed in the first note
5. Quote the Bible in the original language or transliteration
6. Do not begin a sentence with a numeral, but work the name of a book with a number into the text. (e.g 1 Corinthians can be First Corinthians or the first letter to the Corinthians)
7. Use the full title of the book of the Bible if mentioning in the text, if referencing in parentheses use the abbreviated title

Example Bible Reference (Full Title)

Jesus’ parable of the weeds in the field in Matthew 13:36–43 Jesus' illustrates that good and evil will exist together in the world until the final judgment.

Example Bible Reference (Abbreviated)

Jesus’ parable of the weeds in the field (Matt 13:36–43) illustrates that good and evil will exist together in the world until the final judgment.

Example Note Entries

3. (Gal 5:22–23a, 25; Jer 17:7–8 NRSV)

For a range of verses use an em dash with no spaces either side of the dash. Do not use ff.

For example: Luke 10:38–42; 15:3–10 or Luke 1:5–25, 57–66.

For non-consecutive verses use a comma to separate.

For example: Galatians 5:13, 26.

For a range of chapters use an em dash with no spaces either side of the dash.

For example: Luke 16–19.