The Collegeville Pastoral Dictionary of Biblical Theology distills the best of biblical scholarship and pastoral theology and presents it in clear and concise articles. The dictionary is primarily (although not exclusively) pastoral, bringing to priests, religious, teachers, and educated laity a deeper understanding of the Bible and its central place in the life of the Church. Four types of articles comprise this dictionary: introductory articles, major articles, secondary articles, and brief entries. Introductory articles introduce readers to key background issues. They are: - Using the Dictionary: An Introduction; - The Bible and Its Books; - English Versions of the Bible; - History of the Major Religious Movements in the Bible; - Old and New Testaments; - Biblical Interpretation Through the Ages; - Archaeology and Biblical Interpretation; - The Bible and Culture; - and Biblical Theology Major articles cover topics with multiple and distinct components written by scholars who specialize in those areas. They explore not only biblical meanings but also the influence of major biblical ideas on the Church's pastoral and liturgical practices. Secondary articles cover either biblically or pastorally important topics. Brief entries round out the information offered in this volume of biblical, theological, and pastoral thought. A chart of biblical history and maps of biblical lands are printed on the inside covers of this volume. With more than five hundred insightful and instructive entries, this practical pastoral dictionary is a primary resource for preaching and liturgy preparation, classroom teaching and learning, and Bible study and reflection. A wonderful resource for those who study the Bible! Hardcover with dust jacket 1114 pages