I’ve been thinking some about the format of the Bible. That is, the idea of the Bible as a book.
Obviously it wasn’t originally a book. It was a group of books (scrolls actually).
The Jews didn’t have their scriptures in a book. Or I guess their “Good Book” was the Torah; other writings were grouped into separate scrolls.
We talk about “Scripture,” viewing the writings as a singular work. One book. The Bible talks about scriptures, the holy writings, a group of books.
Doesn’t it seem like that affects how we view the contents?
I always say that the Bible is a library (bibliotheek in Dutch) and teach people how to find their way around their library (don’t forget the music section in the middle). I have had many a person’s eyes light up when they realise it is not a book. It frees them up as to how to read as well.
Scott, I’ve used the concept of an anthology in a similar way.
I’ve been helped to see it as an all you can eat buffet.
I feel that your general comment is leading toward other questions. Is that so?
Harland, I do have more musing out loud on the subject. And probably more questions than conclusions.