“HOW TO READ THE BIBLE”

Have a read of Richard Holloway’s new book “How to Read the Bible” in the “How to Read…” series. This slim volume (£6.99) is worth every penny and more.

Bishop Holloway has a reputation for being refreshingly stimulating – and at times provocative. Here he has done a masterly job of decluttering the Bible: what it is, what it means, what it stands for and why it is important. Writing as a Christian, but not being dogmatic about his faith, he explains why the Bible is relevant to anyone trying to understand the meaning of life and the human condition, of whatever faith, or of no faith.

He says the Bible can be understood as either the message of God to humankind (literally as God’s word, or as writers’ – sometimes flawed - interpretation, inspired by God) or on a more secular level as a series of texts attempting to explain and make sense of the reason for our existence. He understandably resists the fundamentalist literal interpretation, preferring the writers’ struggle with or without God’s prompting. Whichever way you look at it, the Bible is a huge storehouse of human experience and insights into divine intervention.

Flaws, contradictions, hidden agendas and human frailties do not detract from the power and relevance of the Book.

Richard Holloway goes on to comment on a series of texts, in the process touching on historical and moral dilemmas. It is a fascinating panorama of aspects of life and history many of us never knew or have long since forgotten. It makes the Bible come alive and for us to take it into our hands again with renewed vigour.

Do buy this book (or beg or borrow it – not “steal”!) You will find that it opens doors for a better understanding of a book we take so easily for granted.

Christopher Davies

“How to Read The Bible”: Richard Holloway: Granta Books: ISBN 1-86207-893-9: £6.99, from the Cornerstone Bookshop (St John’s Princes St.) or any bookseller.