Multi-volume encyclopedias and dictionaries are good sources for historical background information, introductory material, word studies and biblical themes. While newer volumes are often preferable since they contain the latest in archeological evidence, older volumes can be superior in some respects. Older volumes tend to focus more on fact-gathering while newer volumes focus more on synthesis of material and answering questions like “how do we know what we know”.
Multi-volume encyclopedias used to be too expensive for home use and were confined to those with access to a large library system. However, they are becoming more widely available on computer software and online.
If you use e-sword (like I do), you can download many of these references so they are at your fingertips as you study.
Alternately, StudyLight.org has many of my favorites available for free online.
Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology
Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology. Edited by Walter A. Elwell Copyright © 1996 by Walter A. Elwell. Published by Baker Books, a division of Baker Book House Company, PO Box 6287, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49516-6287.
Holman Bible Dictionary
These dictionary topics are from the Holman Bible Dictionary, published by Broadman & Holman, 1991. All rights reserved. Used by permission of Broadman & Holman.
Hastings’ Dictionary of the Bible
A five-volume Biblical encyclopaedia published 1898–1904. James Hastings (1852-1922) was a Scottish Presbyterian minister and founding editor of the Expository Times journal. Hastings worked with over 75 authors to produce this dictionary. Though the title is “Dictionary”, it is more properly an encyclopedia. These files are public domain.
Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature
The Cyclopaedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature is a reference work of ten volumes and two supplements published in the 19th century, co-authored by John McClintock, academic and minister, and Dr. James Strong, professor of exegetical theology. John McClintock and 200 other writers spent 20 years compiling, editing, and writing the Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature. Even modern Bible encyclopedia’s lack the depth of the Cyclopedia’s nearly 50,000 entries and 17 million words! These files are public domain.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
This encyclopedia, written in 1915, was published by Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. Hailed for its authoritative explanation of every significant word, person and place, it is the standard by which all other biblical encyclopedias are measured. These files are public domain and were generously provided by the folks at WordSearch Software.
Kitto’s Popular Cyclopedia of Biblical Literature
Dr. John Kitto’s encyclopedia was the first Bible Dictionary or Encyclopedia to have experts in each subject share their knowledge. Many subsequent Bible dictionaries and encyclopedias reference Kitto’s work. This encyclopedia does focus on names, places, and events, as one would expect. However, this work remains also explains manners, customs, culture, and background behind most of the words of Scripture. John Kitto lived just 50 years, from 1804 to 1854. These files are public domain.
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