Which Bible do Catholics Read? The Definitive Guide for Americans
If you've ever wondered what Bible Catholics use, you're not alone. It's a common question that often sparks curiosity, especially for those outside the Catholic faith. While all Christians read the Bible, there are some key distinctions in the versions and canons that Catholics adhere to. This article aims to provide a detailed and specific answer for the average American reader, shedding light on the official Bible of the Catholic Church and why it differs from some Protestant Bibles.
The Catholic Bible: More Than Just a Book
At its core, the Bible is the sacred scripture for Christians, a collection of books considered divinely inspired. For Catholics, the Bible is a cornerstone of their faith, guiding their beliefs, practices, and understanding of God's relationship with humanity. However, the specific collection of books considered canonical – meaning officially recognized as part of the Bible – is where a significant difference lies.
The Deuterocanonical Books: A Key Distinction
The most notable difference between Catholic and many Protestant Bibles is the inclusion of what Catholics refer to as the Deuterocanonical Books. These are a set of ancient texts that are part of the original Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures used by early Christians. Protestants, following a later canonization process from Jewish scholars, generally do not include these books in their Old Testament.
The Deuterocanonical Books include:
- Tobit
- Judith
- 1 Maccabees
- 2 Maccabees
- Wisdom (also known as the Wisdom of Solomon)
- Sirach (also known as Ecclesiasticus)
- Baruch
- Additions to Esther
- Additions to Daniel (The Prayer of Azariah and the Song of the Three Holy Children, Susanna, Bel and the Dragon)
These books are considered inspired scripture by the Catholic Church and are read and preached from during Mass and in Catholic teachings. They offer valuable historical context, theological insights, and moral guidance.
Which Translation is Preferred?
While the canon is a fundamental aspect, the specific translation of the Bible also matters. The Catholic Church has specific guidelines for Bible translations that are approved for liturgical use and general reading.
Some of the most common and widely accepted Catholic translations in American English include:
- The New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE): This is the most commonly used translation in the United States for Mass readings and liturgical purposes. It's known for its scholarship and faithfulness to the original languages.
- The Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSV-CE): A venerable translation that maintains a more traditional feel while being academically sound.
- The New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSV-CE): An updated version of the RSV, it's also widely respected for its accuracy and readability.
- The Jerusalem Bible and The New Jerusalem Bible: These translations are known for their scholarly introductions and extensive footnotes, offering a rich context for readers.
It's important to note that while other translations might be read by Catholics, the ones listed above are generally considered the most authoritative and appropriate for Catholic use, particularly within the United States.
Why the Difference in Canon?
The divergence in the Old Testament canon between Catholic and many Protestant Bibles has historical roots. The early Christian Church generally accepted the Septuagint, which included the Deuterocanonical books, as its Old Testament. When the Protestant Reformation occurred in the 16th century, reformers re-examined the canon. Martin Luther, for instance, placed these books in a separate section of his German translation, deeming them "apocrypha" but still valuable for reading.
The Council of Trent (1545-1563) reaffirmed the Catholic canon of Scripture, definitively listing the Deuterocanonical books as inspired and on par with the other books of the Old and New Testaments. This council was a response to the challenges posed by the Reformation and sought to clarify and solidify Catholic doctrine and practice.
The New Testament: A Shared Foundation
When it comes to the New Testament, the canon is identical for Catholics and Protestants. Both traditions accept the same 27 books, from the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John to the epistles of Paul, the letters of Peter and John, and the Book of Revelation.
This shared New Testament forms the foundation of Christian belief, focusing on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as well as the early development of the Church.
In Summary: What to Look For
So, to answer the question directly: Catholics read a Bible that includes the 73 books of the Catholic canon, which encompasses the 46 books of the Old Testament and the 27 books of the New Testament. The Old Testament contains the Deuterocanonical books, which are not typically found in Protestant Bibles.
For Americans, the New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE) is the most common and officially recognized translation used in Catholic churches and by many individuals.
When purchasing a Bible or if you're curious about what your Catholic friends or family might be reading, look for titles that explicitly state "Catholic Edition" or are one of the approved translations mentioned above. This ensures you have a Bible that aligns with the teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does the Catholic Bible differ from a Protestant Bible?
The primary difference lies in the Old Testament. Catholic Bibles include seven books (and additions to others) that are known as the Deuterocanonical books, which are generally not found in Protestant Bibles. Both Catholic and Protestant Bibles share the same New Testament canon.
Why do Catholics include the Deuterocanonical books?
Catholics include these books because they were part of the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures used by Jesus and the early Church. The Catholic Church officially affirmed their canonicity at the Council of Trent in the 16th century.
Is the New American Bible (NABRE) the only Bible Catholics can read?
While the NABRE is the most common and officially approved translation for use in the liturgy in the United States, Catholics can read other approved translations like the RSV-CE, NRSV-CE, or the Jerusalem Bible. The key is that the translation adheres to the Catholic canon and is approved by the Church.
Are the Deuterocanonical books considered less important by Catholics?
No, Catholics consider the Deuterocanonical books to be inspired scripture, just like all the other books in the Bible. They are read, preached from, and used in Catholic teaching and worship.
