Study Bible or companion that focuses on historical context?

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FreeMoralAgent

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I am in search of a Catholic study Bible or companion that elaborates on scripture with historical context. I am not as concerned with interpretation as I am with expanding on scripture by providing historical context.

So what do you recommend?
 
Rene Girard talks about the historical context alot. But I would also be interested in a study Bible like this as well.
 
Thanks, does anybody else have any other recommendations?
 
The Thompson Chain Bible is **not **a good reference for Catholics. It “proof-texts,” jumping from verse to verse, which is one method anti-Catholics use to “disprove” our faith.

I do not know if there is a study that exclusively focuses on the historical background, but I believe “The Great Adventure” includes some.

The Denver Catholic Biblical School definitely includes it; I took the first two years. I believe it is available in a few other dioceses, too.

I also use the Jewish New Testament Commentary, by David H. Stern, to give me insight as to specifically Jewish meanings that might not come across on simple readings.

Keep a hopeful eye out for books by Thomas Smith. So far, he has only published “Inside Mormonism.” (He is a convert from the LDS.) He taught my first year of the Biblical School, and an excellent workshop on Jesus as a Rabbi - the historical background of Rabbinic teaching. I really hope he will publish some of his studies. He’s not just full of facts, but is a truly excellent teacher.

To God be the glory,

Ruthie
 
Wow that archaeological study Bible is impressive, its just too bad there isn’t a Catholic equivalent…
 
Me too and, really, it’s the best one out there for the purpose of getting historical and cultural background. I’ve used it extensively in preparing my Bible studies and I have noticed next to no denominational bias in it compared to, say, the NIV Study Bible and other Protestant study Bibles. Perhaps this is because in this particular study Bible, the focus is almost entirely on archeology, history, and biblical cultural background rather that a focus on doctrine and traditional Protestantism.

The layout is beautiful and articles are interesting and helpful. As with other Protestant Bible tools, my only caution would be in remaining cognizant of the fact that it is a Protestant translation (with the NIV bias and missing 7 books) and commentary. When encountering ideas or assertions that seem to contradict Catholic teaching, for Catholics the official Catholic teaching is the default position. Keep that in mind and this Bible can be used and enjoyed.
 
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