In-Text Citation
In-text citation is an important part of any academic paper and it is essential that it is taken into consideration when citing the Bible. APA (American Psychological Association) is one of the most commonly used citation styles and it provides guidelines on how to cite the Bible using in-text citation. To cite the Bible, one must use the book name, chapter, verse and include the parenthetical reference in the text.
The Bible
The Bible is one of the most influential and important works of literature in the history of mankind. It contains the teachings and stories of various religious sects and provides spiritual guidance to billions of people all over the world. The Bible has been translated into hundreds of languages and is available in multiple versions. For example, some versions contain the original Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek language as well as its English translation. In any case, the Bible should be cited in a particular way based on the version used.
In-Text Citation Basics
When citing the Bible in text, it’s important to use the book, chapter, and verse. The format is usually listed as follows: “Books chapter : verses”. For example: Matthew 6:2 – 3. Additionally, one should list the appropriate parenthetical documentation. When citing the Bible, parenthetical documentation usually looks like this: Bible, n.d. or Bible, verses. Any time the Bible is cited in the text, it should also be included in the works cited section.
In-Text Citation Using APA
When citing the Bible in text using APA, the format should follow that of a standard book citation. When citing the Bible in text, italicize the title and the edition should be listed after the title. Additionally, use either the abbreviated or full version of the book in the parenthetical documentation. For example, if you are citing the King James Version of the Bible, the parenthetical documentation would look like this: (KJV Bible, n.d.). Additionally, if the chapter and verse is given, it should be included in the parenthetical document. For example: (KJV Bible, 1 Thessalonians, 4:13–17, n.d.). The term ‘verses’ should be used instead of page numbers when citing the Bible.
Citing Different Versions
In APA citation, it’s important to include the specific version of the Bible used. Different versions of the Bible contain different translations and should be noted accordingly. For example: (NIV Bible, 1 Thessalonians, 4:13–17, n.d.). The abbreviated version of the Bible should also be listed in the works cited page.
In-Text Citation Examples
Below are some examples of how to cite the Bible in APA format in-text:
- According to the Bible, “love your neighbor as yourself” (KJV Bible, Matthew 22:39, n.d.).
- Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers” (NIV Bible, Matthew 5:9, n.d.).
- Paul encouraged Christians to think about “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just” (ESV Bible, Philippians 4:8, n.d.).
Works Cited
Bible, King James Version. n.d.
Bible, New International Version. n.d.
Bible, English Standard Version. n.d.
