Bible Software recommendations?

[Hesychios]

Greetings all,
I was hoping I could get some good advice on Scripture software.

What’s good, what works. What does everyone recommend?

I am also interested in a version that works on Macs but that is secondary to being otherwise useful.

If any here have experience with more than one product, I am interested in usability before price (although both considerations are important), and any other comments you may have by way of comparison.

I have several different Bibles including the New Jerusalem, RSV, NAB, D-R Challoner and KJV. But I would like to make better use of my computer than just surfing the 'net and getting into cyber-arguments!

Thanks in advance to all who may be able to help, God Bless

Michael

 

[adventistnomore]

Hi Michael,

I’ll begin with the high-end software, geared towards academics. Many consider Accordance the premier Bible software suite on any platform; I should add that it is EXCLUSIVE to the Mac. The standard in the Windows world is probably BibleWorks. Both are designed for an intensive study of the Bible in its original languages. The latter is less exepensive in its full version ($349); Accordance begins AS LOW as $15; a decent package will bring the bill to several hundred dollars; but the full scholar’s package, for instance, could clock in at $2000. Again, you should have a fair sense of what features you need in a Bible study program, and then unlock them as necessary. Also remember that some volumes are available online as it is; be selective.

Honestly though, I imagine you’re looking for something less extravagent. Logos would be a great place to start for someone seeking a solid library of Bible versions and commentaries (albeit with an evangelical flavor). It comes in several flavors, each more extensive (and expensive) than the last; you’re sure to find at least one flavor that first your needs, and again, it works by unlocking programs. QuickVerse is also popular, and has both Windows and Mac versions.

When choosinga program, my first advice is play with the program (if a friend owns it). If not, review screenshots or animations on the product’s website, and decide if you’d feel comfortable with the program. Also (as with any piece of shopping), you can always begin to lust after software, progams, or features you won’t really need. Avoid that fever at all costs.

Which brings me to my next point…

Don’t forget that there are free, open-source programs that are adequate for the simplest needs. E-Sword and MacSword immediately come to mind. There are many free modules available online for each (see if the modules they offer are adequate for your needs; if so, you’ve saved yourself some money).

Finally, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, realize that almost every Bible translation or original language text is available online. I’m not using any study program right now, because the NAB, ESV, RV, ASV, NIV, and NASB, are searchable on BibleGateway, and the NRSV is on Oremus. More exciting, the standard Hebrew text (Stuttgartensia) is available online as well, and can parallel with the KJV. Also, GreekBible has excellent parsing tools built right into the site. NetBible is excellent for study, and other websites can provide you with the textual variants for each verse.

All of these are free, and until my needs grow, they more than suffice. Bookmark them into your browser, and play with them for a couple of weeks. If theyre not meeting your needs (unlikely), then begin investigating the websites for the programs that’ll cost you money.

You can message me if you have anymore questions.

 

[Hesychios]

Dear ANM,
Thank you for the kind response. I will look into the online options right away!

I must feel my way along this path, I don’t want to be hasty and waste money. I particularly like your comment about lusting after programs and features I do not need: yes, I am prone to do that

Thanks a bunch!

Michael