Dr. Ronald Youngblood is a graduate of Valparaiso University (BA), Fuller Theological Seminary (BD), and the Dropsie College for Hebrew and Cognate Learning (PhD). He has served as professor of Old Testament at Bethel Seminary in St. Paul, Wheaton Graduate School, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and Bethel Seminary in San Diego, and is currently serving in the same capacity at International College and Graduate School in Honolulu. He is an associate editor of the NIV Study Bible; author of 1 and 2 Samuel in the Expositor's Bible Commentary series; and a co-translator and co-editor of the Holy Bible, New International Version. He has also edited and/or written ten other volumes, including Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Dictionary, for which he was awarded the Gold Medallion Book Award by the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association. He serves as chairman of the board of directors of International Bible Society and frequently engages in preaching and teaching ministries at home? F.F. (Frederick Fyvie)Bruce was born in October the 12 th , 1910, in Elgin (Scotland), to a Brethren Assemblies family. His father was an itinerant preacher for the Assemblies. F.F. was baptized and accepted as a member of his local congregation in September 1928. He remained loyal to his denomination for the rest of his life. “Through my own experience with the Brethren, I can say they are the ideal place where a lay theologian can serve the Church with his gifts” (Restrospect, p. 285). As a lover of the Biblie and of the classical languages, when he was only 10 years old, he started simultaneous studies in Greek and Latin. F.F. was admitted to Aberdeen University in October 1928. He studied also in University of Cambridge (England, 1932-34) and in the University of Vienna (Austria, 1934-35), studying in preparation for his Graduation and Doctoral degree, excelling in both. Bruce taught Greek in the Universities of Edinburgh (1935-38) and Leeds (1938-47). Afterwards, he taught Bible History and Literature in the University of Sheffield (1947-59) followed by Bible Criticism and Exegesis in the University of Manchester (1959-78). He lectured in prestigious universities all around the world: Marburg (Germany), Amsterdam (The Netherlands), Auckland (New Zealand), and Makerere (Uganda). He also lectured in numerous Theological Seminaries, among them the Calvin Seminary, in Grand Rapids (U.S.A.) and the Union Seminary, in New York City (U.S.A.). He was voted President by the prestigious Societies of Old Testament Studies and New Testament Studies. F.F. Bruce wrote some 50 books, plus several thousand articles, essays and reviews. His masterpiece The Acts of the Apostles: The Greek Text with Introduction and Commentary (1951) marked for the evangelical world the beginning of a new era in Bible study, being seriously considered by the Academia. In spite of never having made formal studies in Theology, he was an extraordinary reader of the subject and the Aberdeen University granted him in 1957 a Doctor Honoris Causa degree in Divinities.
Features & Highlights
Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary
is the most comprehensive and up-to-date Bible dictionary available.
With a fresh new look and updated photographs, this new and enhanced edition is a wealth of basic study information with more than 7,000 entries plus more than 500 full-color photographs, maps, and pronunciation guides.
Features include:
Cross-references to major translations
Cross-references to major translations
More than 7,000 up-to-date entries
More than 7,000 up-to-date entries
More than 500 full-color photographs and maps
More than 500 full-color photographs and maps
Enlarged type size for easier reading
Enlarged type size for easier reading
Visual Survey of the Bible from The Open Bible
Visual Survey of the Bible from
The Open Bible
Customer Reviews
Rating Breakdown
★★★★★
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Most Helpful Reviews
★★★★★
5.0
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My go-to Bible Dictionary!
Bible dictionaries are incredibly helpful and insightful to anybody of any level of bible study. I am a layman bible student, only having been on my journey to better understand God’s word for about the past year. I had purchased a few study bibles, commentaries, and bible study workbooks, but didn’t really see the point in getting a dictionary, because it sounded as if I was going to be trying to interpret Greek and Hebrew or really complicated word studies to justify my purchase. But then i’ve realized as ive been learning that there are plenty on words, phrases, people, places, etc., im the bible that i needed definitions and context for, and this one has been tremendously helpful!
It has beautiful coloring and illustrations, and carrie’s almost any and all terns ive searched for. I own 3: This one, the Holman dictionary, and the Zondervan. They each provide great definitions, and often have slightly different info, so they’re great to use together. However, I find myself grabbing for this one the most, and if I can only carry 1, it will usually be this one. The Nelson’s has fantastic and detailed book introductions and outlines. It has more words than the Holman, although I do enjoy the layout, look and feel of the Holman the most.
If I could only pick one, I personally find this one to be the most helpful in my bible study.
2 people found this helpful
★★★★★
4.0
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Pretty good for a Bible dictionary
"Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary" is a Bible reference book intended to help you study your Bible. They suggest that you read a passage in the Bible and then read the entries in the dictionary for the names, places, and things mentioned in the passage. The entry briefly explained that word and pointed out where it's mentioned in the Bible. While the entries did give enough information to help you better understand a passage, it usually just gave information that you could pick up from reading the whole Bible on a regular basis.
Some entries did have more detail, especially those that contained controversial topics. They'd give their take on the issue but didn't usually explain the other positions. For example, under "Chronology, New Testament," they gave a couple popular dates for Jesus birth and death but only give some brief supporting reasons for their own choices.
Under Genesis, they tried to side-step controversy by saying that Genesis 1 is mainly theological and is highly poetical rather than giving scientific details. Under the Flood entry, they acknowledge that the Flood was "not simply a downpour of ordinary rain," yet under "Chronology, Old Testament" they suggest the Flood happened at a time where it couldn't have been a world-wide flood. They suggest that Genesis was heavily influenced by Sumer rather than Sumer being influenced by the earlier, real history that is recorded in the Bible. They suggest that the years given in the genealogies in Genesis can't be taken at face value. Basically, they have their biases but it shows up more in implied assumptions than by taking a hardline stance on an issue.
There were full-color pictures on about every other page--a picture of some coins near the entry for money, for example, or someone playing a flute for "flute." There were charts and maps for certain events. If you don't have a study Bible and want help understanding who various people are and what is going on (what is a tent maker? a shekel?), then you will probably find this Bible dictionary fairly useful.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher through BookLook.
The Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary lists and defines key words based on the NKJV, but also has variants from 5 other translations - KJV, NASB, REB, NIV, and NRSV. The inclusion of all these variations will make this edition easily compatible with pretty much whatever Bible version you have on hand.
The Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary does not only include words found in the Bible - it also includes related themes and ideas, such as "Archaeology of the Bible", "Bible, Interpretation of the", "Bible Versions and Translations", etc. There are also entries for each book of the Bible that include "A Study and Teaching Outline", which are great for a quick overview and reference of each book. There are also a variety of study helps included in the Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary (pages x through xxxviii). The entries range from a single line to multiple pages (there are 12 pages for the entry "Jesus Christ").
As the title implies, the Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary includes illustrations (some drawn, some photos) throughout. I must admit that I had higher hopes for the illustrated portion of this Bible dictionary. With "Illustrated" being obviously highlighted in the title, I hoped to see more images (and more prominent images) among the dictionary entries. There are over 1200 pages with over 500 images - I just had hoped the ratio would be weighted a bit more on the illustration side. Even so, the images are definitely a welcome addition to the informative text and will be especially appreciated when using this with a family. I especially appreciate the topographical illustrations which show the surface structure of the land.
In addition to the photos and illustrations, there are 9 maps in the back of the Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, similar to those you will find in the back of many Bibles.
The Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary includes the "Fan-Tab™ Thumb Index Reference System" (which I believe is just a fancy term for the index color being visible on the closed page edges - making it easy to find which letter you are looking for).
All in all, I am happy to have the Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary on our bookshelf and I think it will be a handy resource for our family.
FTC Declaration: The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book or advanced reading copy through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. This does not change the fact that I will give my honest opinion in my reviews.
1 people found this helpful
★★★★★
5.0
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Excellent Bible Study Resource
When I received this dictionary in the mail I was surprised by the weight as it weighs in at 5.1 pounds and the huge size – 2 1/2 inches thick with it’s hardcover and it’s 1,280 pages, it’s a mammoth resource to have on hand when studying. If you recall the NKJV Study Bible I reviewed a couple weeks ago, this is a companion resource to that Bible although it doesn’t have to be used with just that Bible. While it’s called a dictionary, the entries are almost like an encyclopedia of sorts as they aren’t just short definitions but in depth analysis of the people, places and cultures contained within the Bible itself – such as “Jerusalem Council, The” takes up almost 1 1/2 columns in telling what the council was. There are many charts, I like the visual survey of the Bible, as well as maps and photographs all in vivid, full-color to hold your interest and really show what images and scenery looks like.
As I said it doesn’t have to be used with just the NKJV Study Bible I mentioned above as the dictionary is cross referenced with most major translations, so whether you use KJV or the ESV, you’ll find this a helpful study resource. I’m not sure if I’d use it for Bible study while laying in bed as it’s a hefty book but if that is where you study God’s Word best then by all means – I can see myself in front of a large desk with my Bibles open and this dictionary studying the people and times of Christ in vivid words and pictures. Included are five easy steps in using your Bible in conjunction with this dictionary to get the most out of your study, whether you’re a pastor or a lay person who just wants to learn more the five easy steps will have you delving more into the Bible.
**I was provided a copy of this dictionary from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest opinion, no other compensation was given.
1 people found this helpful
★★★★★
4.0
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A Great Bible Dictionary
What a great new dictionary! I love several things about this new enhanced version. First, in the opening pages, 5 steps are given to instruct readers how to use this Bible dictionary in your regular Bible reading to enhance your learning of Scripture. Second, the Visual Survey of the Bible is great! I love being able to see the history of Scripture put on one comprehensive timeline. It gives a great overview of Scripture. Third, the pictures and maps used throughout the dictionary are wonderful. They add another great layer of interest! Now, I must say as with all literature, you must compare men's words with Scripture. Men aren't always correct in their interpretation of Scripture and so must be thoroughly cross-examined with what God's Word says. There may be other theories represented in these pages that you will not agree with... such as the six days of creation not being a literal 24 hour period (pg. 278). In spite of some difference like these, I'm excited to be able to use this new dictionary to enhance my own personal Bible study. This will be a great new edition to our library.
***I received this book free from BookLook bloggers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
★★★★★
5.0
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Get it!
This book is huge! And I must admit that the new and enhanced edition of Nelsen's Illustrated Bible Dictionary is amazing. If you are a visual learner this book is a great tool as there are updated color photos to go along with some of the definitions of terms. This edition comes with over 7,000 updated entries, over 500 color photos and maps and it has been cross-referenced to major translations. It even has "enlarged type size for ease of use'.
I think what I love most about the Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary is that it is a great asset to any biblical research, sermon prep, Bible story teaching as well as for personal use. One can never stop learning more about the Bible. One can never stop researching something to help ones own sermons and Bible lessons. This book will only add to what you will need or want to use in being properly educated and informed about the culture, geography, and time period throughout the Bible.
If you are wondering whether this book is well worth your time and money, doubt no longer. I strongly suggest that you add Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary to your own personal study time and library.
This book was given to me by booklookbloggers.com and these opinions are my own.
★★★★★
5.0
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Best Bible Dictionary!
This is the absolute best Bible Dictionary I've ever seen. Anything you want to know, you're sure to find it in this amazing volume!
I really like the pictures and illustrations throughout. It makes it so much easier and enjoyable to understand what you're reading. Things I didn't really understand before, I really understand now because of this wonderful dictionary!
It also has cross-references so you can dig deeper and really get a clear understanding of a word. I thought the section on Occupations was exceptional! It went into every conceivable occupation in the Biblical times. It is so interesting!
Anything you'd like to know, anything you'd like to understand, you'll find in this Bible Dictionary. It's been so great as I do my Bible studies or have my quiet time to look up something I'm not sure about or have no understanding of. It makes my reading of the Bible so much more enjoyable and interesting because I understand what I'm reading.
I highly recommend this Bible Dictionary. It's amazing and packed with information! I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by BookLook Bloggers Program
★★★★★
5.0
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An Indispensable Reference Tool
If you are interested in learning more about the Bible and everything in it, you will soon find that owning a good Bible Dictionary is a necessity - even if you have a great Study Bible.
Since 1986, Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary has been an indispensable reference tool to new Christians, Bible students and Bible scholars alike - and, with the release of Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, New And Enhanced Edition - a good book just got a whole lot better.
Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, New And Enhanced Edition is the most comprehensive and up-to-date Bible Dictionary available. With its fresh new look and updated photographs, this new and enhanced edition contains a wealth of basic study information, including more than 7,000 entries and over 500 full-color photographs, maps, and pronunciation guides.
What I like most about the new Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary is that it's such a fascinating book to read. Many of the entries are similar to what you would find in an encyclopedia. While many people will probably use it to look up information based on their reading in their Bible, you can also just sit down with the book, flip through, and read whatever entries interest you. You can also use the outlines and materials to help you plan your lessons if you are a Bible teacher.
If you are looking for the perfect Bible Dictionary to complement your studies or to give as a gift, Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary is my recommendation to you!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. However, the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
★★★★★
5.0
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Great for in depth Bible study
If I had to describe this book in one word it would be WOW! There are so many useful tools included in the Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary to enhance the user's Bible study time. There are several useful articles such as five easy steps to better Bible study, the history of the early world, history of Israel,the people,the land and the kingdom. From Aaron to Zuzim and every word imaginable from the Bible in between the definitions are in depth and plenty of color photographs not only enhance but allow the user to visualize many of the people, places and things found in the Bible. The print is an easy to read size and the overall book is set up in a user friendly way. It is a bit of a chunkster with over 1200 pages. Overall this is an valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their Bible study!
A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.
★★★★★
5.0
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Must have Bible Study tool
Having a good Bible dictionary when you enjoy digging deeper into the words from the Bible is a must. I love studying the Bible and Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary has been a great asset. I love the full color pictures, the maps, the pronunciation guides was a great help and the enlarged type size was wonderful.
Another great feature is it has more than 7,000 up-to-date entries, it has cross-references to major translations and it has a visual survey of the Bible from The Open Bible. You definitely will not be disappointed with this hardback, Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book for my honest review.
