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The Holy Bible was compiled through a process that spanned centuries and involved various individuals and councils. Here’s a brief overview:
Old Testament
- The Old Testament consists of texts that were written over many centuries by different authors. These texts include historical accounts, poetry, prophecy, and religious laws.
- The Catholic Church played a crucial role in determining which books should be included in the Old Testament canon. The process involved discernment, scholarly study, and guidance from the Holy Spirit.
- The final compilation of the Old Testament occurred in the late fourth century, with the Church officially recognizing the 39 books that make up this part of the Bible.
- The Old Testament, also known as the Hebrew Bible, was already put together by the time of Jesus. It consists of 39 books written over centuries by prophets and leaders. These writings were established as "the Scriptures" during Jesus' time.
- Moses authored the first five books of the Bible, and other prophets contributed to the remaining books.
- By the time of Jesus, the Hebrew Bible was a well-defined collection.
New Testament
- After Jesus' ministry, followers began writing historical records of his life, which became the Gospels (such as Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John).
- Church leaders like Paul and Peter wrote letters (Epistles) to guide early Christian communities.
- Over time, hundreds of letters and books circulated, explaining Jesus' life and teachings. However, not all writings were authentic, leading to questions about which books should be considered authoritative.
- The New Testament contains writings related to the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. These texts were authored by apostles and early Christian leaders.
- The process of compiling the New Testament was more gradual. Early Christians recognized certain writings as sacred and authoritative. These writings were read during Mass and used for teaching.
- By the late 300s, the Church had identified the 27 books that would become the New Testament. The Council of Rome (382), under the leadership of Pope Damasus, played a significant role in affirming this canon.
- Regional councils in Hippo (393) and Carthage (397) further confirmed the New Testament canon. Later, the Council of Florence (1442) and the Council of Trent (1546) reaffirmed the same canon.
Compilation Process
Christian church leaders convened to address these questions. Key gatherings included the Council of Nicea (A.D. 325) and the First Council of Constantinople (A.D. 381).
Criteria for inclusion in the Bible were established:
- The book had to be written by a disciple or someone closely connected to Jesus' ministry.
- It had to be written in the first century A.D., ensuring proximity to the events.
- The book couldn't contradict other trusted elements of Scripture.
- St. Jerome, around A.D. 400, translated and compiled all 66 books into a single volume in Latin. This edition is known as The Vulgate.
In summary, the Catholic Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, compiled the Holy Bible as we know it today by discerning which texts were inspired and authoritative. The Bible remains a foundational text for Catholic Christians and other Christian denominations worldwide, providing spiritual guidance and wisdom.
Sources:
- Learn Religions. (2015, February 7). Who compiled the 66 books of the Bible and when? [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.learnreligions.com/when-was-the-bible-assembled-363293
- Reyna, M. (2024, February 16). How was the Bible compiled [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.theholyscript.com/how-was-the-bible-compiled/
- Catholic Answers. (2017, August 30). Who compiled the Bible and when? [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.catholic.com/qa/who-compiled-the-bible-and-when
- Roos, D. (2020, February 24). Who decided which books of the Bible made the final cut? [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://people.howstuffworks.com/books-of-bible.htm
- Vargo, A. (2014, August 22). Yes, Catholicism is in the Bible..... [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.catholic365.com/article/73/yes-catholicism-is-in-the-bible.html