In a
world of Biblical literature that is overflowing with reference books, you
would think it would be a monumental task to produce a volume that is unique,
informative, practical and just plain fun to hold in your hands and peruse. But
not so with The A to Z Guide to Bible Signs & Symbols; Understanding their Meaning and Significance by Neil
Wilson and Nancy Ryken Taylor and published by Baker Books.
Wilson
and Taylor have endeavored to catalogue and explain 131 signs and symbols found
within the sixty-six books of the Bible. All 131 are arranged alphabetically
for ease of access. (Thus the lack of need for an index.) The book is printed
on glossy paper with illustrations included for every entry.
Entries
range from Altar to Zion/Jerusalem with items like Fire, Light and Salt sprinkled in between. Each entry
also contains a short practical application/devotional just to get you
thinking. There are even several “numbers” – forty, one, seven – that are
included.
Sure
they may have omitted one or two of your favorites but they do not claim the
list to be exhaustive. This volume is not written for an ivory tower inhabitant
who dabbles in the minutia of this fascinating topic, but rather for the busy
pastor or the die-hard Bible student who seeks to glean all he or she can out
of scripture.
And a
note about format: You’ll want to get this is the paperback style. Baker Books
is very adept at producing glossy books with great illustrations – Baker Illustrated Bible Commentary/Dictionary/Handbook. This one you’ll want to hold in your hands
to more easily enjoy the layout of the book and the illustrations.
The end
of the matter is this: if you are at all serious about Bible study, this book
will enrich your endeavors.
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