how to cite the bible in a research paper

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APA Style (7th Edition) Citation Guide: Biblical Sources

• Introduction
• Journal Articles
• Magazine/Newspaper Articles
• Books & Ebooks
• Government & Legal Documents
• Biblical Sources
• Secondary Sources
• Films/Videos/TV Shows
• How to Cite: Other
• Additional Help

Table of Contents

Bible dictionary, single-volume commentary, multi-volume bible commentary, book-length commentary in a series.

Citing the Bible  

Bible Chapters and Verses

Note: All citations should be double spaced and have a hanging indent in a Reference List.

A "hanging indent" means that each subsequent line after the first line of your citation should be indented by 0.5 inches.

This Microsoft support page contains instructions about how to format a hanging indent in a paper.

In the Body of a Paper

Books, Journals, Reports, Webpages, etc.: When you refer to titles of a “stand-alone work,” as the APA calls them on their APA Style website, such as books, journals, reports, and webpages, you should italicize them. Capitalize words as you would for an article title in a reference, e.g., In the book Crying in H Mart: A memoir , author Michelle Zauner (2021) describes her biracial origin and its impact on her identity.

Article or Chapter: When you refer to the title of a part of a work, such as an article or a chapter, put quotation marks around the title and capitalize it as you would for a journal title in a reference, e.g., In the chapter “Where’s the Wine,” Zauner (2021) describes how she decided to become a musician.

The APA Sample Paper below has more information about formatting your paper.

• APA 7th ed. Sample Paper

Entry Author's Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if Given. (Year of publication).  Title of entry. In Editor’s First Initial. Second Initial if Given. Last Name (Ed.), Title of work: Capital letter also for subtitle (edition if given and is not first edition, Vol. volume#, pp. first page-last page). Publisher Name.

Sarna, N. M. (2008). Exodus, book of. In D. N. Freedman (Ed.), The Anchor Yale Bible dictionary (Vol. 2, pp. 689- 700). Yale University Press.

In-Text Paraphrase:

(Author's Last Name, Year)

Example: (Sarna, 2008) 

In-Text Quote:

(Author's Last Name, Year, p. Page Number)

(Sarna, 2008, p. 690)

Entry Author’s Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if Given., & Second Author’s Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial. (Year of publication). Title of chapter. In Editor’s First Initial. Second Initial. Last Name & Second Editor’s First Initial. Second Initial. Last Name (Eds.), Title of work: Capital letter also for subtitle (edition if given and is not first edition, Vol. volume#, pp. first page-last page). Publisher. DOI (if available) or URL

Browning, W. R. F. (2009). Daniel, book of. In A Dictionary of the Bible (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press. https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780199543984.001.0001/acref9780199543984-e-485

Example: (Browning, 2009) 

(Author's Last Name, Year) - if the online source does not provide page numbers then omit the page number from the in-text citation

(Browning, 2009) 

A single-volume commentary is a book that contains chapters covering each of the books of the Bible.

Author’s Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if Given. (Year of publication). In Editor’s First Initial. Second Initial. Last Name & Second Editor’s First Initial. Second Initial. Last Name (Eds.), Title of book: Subtitle if given (edition if given and is not first edition, pp. first page-last page). Publisher Name.

Perkins, P. (1990). The gospel according to John. In R. E. Brown, J. A. Firzmyer, & R. E. Murphy (Eds.),  The new Jerome biblical commentary (pp. 942-85) .  Prentice-Hall.

Example: (Perkins, 1990)

(Perkins, 1990, p. 955) 

Author’s Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if Given. (Year of publication). In Editor’s First Initial. Second Initial. Last Name & Second Editor’s First Initial. Second Initial. Last Name (Eds.), Title of book: Subtitle if given (edition if given and is not first edition). Publisher Name. DOI (if available) or URL

Franklin, E. (2001). Luke. In J. Barton and J. Muddiman (Eds.),  Oxford Bible commentary . Oxford University Press. http://site.ebrary.com/lib/uportland/reader.action?docID=10269141

Example: (Franklin, 2001)

(Author's Last Name, Year, p. Page Number) -  if the online source does not provide page numbers then omit the page number from the in-text citation

(Franklin, 2001) 

A multi-volume commentary is a set of multiple books that contains chapters covering each of the books of the Bible.

Author’s Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if Given. (Year of publication). Title of chapter. In Editor’s First Initial. Second Initial. Last Name (Ed.), Title of book: Subtitle if given (edition if given and is not first edition, Vol. volume#, pp. first page-last page). Publisher Name.

Perkins, P. (1994). Mark. In L. E. Keck (Ed.), The new interpreter’s Bible (Vol. 8, pp. 507-734). Abingdon Press.

Example: (Perkins, 1994) 

(Perkins, 1994, p. 601) 

A book-length commentary is a book that includes commentary on just one book of the Bible (and sometimes only part of one book of the Bible).

Author’s Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if Given. (Year of publication). Title of book: Subtitle if given .  Title of series. Publisher Name.

Vinson, R. B. (2008). Luke . Smyth & Helwys Bible commentary. Smyth & Helwys. 

Example: (Vinson, 2008) 

(Vinson, 2008, p. 302)

Author’s Last Name, First Initial. Second Initial if Given. (Year of publication). Title of book: Subtitle if given . Title of series. Publisher Name. DOI (if available) or URL

Vinson, R. B. (2008). Luke . Smyth & Helwys Bible commentary. Smyth & Helwys. https://login.uportland.idm.oclc.org/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nlebk&AN=942774&sit e=ehost-live&scope=site

Citing the Bible

Citing the Version of the Bible

The first time you paraphrase or quote from the Bible, identify which version of the Bible that you used. Include both the original and republished publication dates in the reference. You do not need to repeat the version name in subsequent references. Then cite the Bible in your reference list.

Version of the Bible . (Year of publication). Publisher Name.

Version of the Bible . (Year of publication). Publisher Name. URL. (Original work published Earlier year of publication)

King James Bible . (2017). King James Bible Online . https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/ (Original work published 1769)

In the body of your paper, include a sentence similar to this:

The researchers consulted the Bible ( King James Version , 1769/2017) to provide items for the development of their religious values assessment.

Citing Biblical Chapters and Verses

When referring to books of the Bible within the body of your paper:

• Example: Genesis, Luke 4, Revelation 1-3
• Example: Exod 2:1-3; Matt 13:12

Note: it isn't necessary to add a period after the abbreviated book name. Include a space between the book name and the chapter number, and include a colon between the chapter number and the verse(s).

Citing Introductions, Annotations, or Supplemental Content in the Bible

Bibles that have annotations, introductions, or other supplemental content should cite the editors in place of authors. If the supplemental content is written by someone other than the editors of the book, then cite the content as a chapter within a book.

Carr, D. M. (2010). Introduction to Genesis. In M. D. Coogan, M. Z. Brettler, C. Newsom, & P. Perkins (Eds.),  The new Oxford annotated Bible with apocrypha: New revised standard version (pp. 7-11). Oxford University Press. 

Kaiser, W. C., Jr., & Garrett, D. (Eds.). (2006).  NIV archaeological study Bible: An illustrated walk through biblical history and culture . Zondervan.

In-Text citations:

(Carr, 2010)

(Carr, 2010, p. 8)

(Kaiser & Garrett, 2006, Genesis 1:20)

(Kaiser & Garrett, 2006, footnote to Genesis 1:12, p. 4)

See the APA "Religious Work References" page for more guidance.

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Home / Guides / Citation Guides / APA Format / How to Cite the Bible in APA

How to Cite the Bible in APA

The Bible is a frequently used source of information for many types of papers, but is referencing it the same as citing a book? This page will help you format citations for the Bible based on APA 7th edition guidelines.

Guide overview

Citing a bible (print or ebook), citing a translated bible, citing a bible on a website, apa in-text bible citations, apa reference page entry for a bible.

Reference page citations for the Bible are similar to that of a book; however, Bible texts are treated as not having an author.

However, if an editor or translator contributed to the text, then they must be included following the same citation conventions as a book.

In terms of dates, you must include the current version’s date after the title. For the original publication date, include the republished date only (if provided), as the date of publication for the Bible and for other religious texts is uncertain.

Reference page structure:

Bible name. (Year published). Publisher. URL (Original work published year)

Reference page PRINT Bible example:

King James Bible. (2019). Christian Art Publishers. (Original work published 1769)

Bible name (Translator’s F. M. Last name, Trans.). (Year published). Publisher.

Reference page example:

The holy Bible translated from the Latin Vulgate (R. Challoner, Trans.). (2017). Andesite Press.

If there is no site/page published date, use “n.d.” which stands for “no date.”

Bible name. (Year published). Publisher or Website Name. URL (Original work published year)

Holy Bible – American Standard Version. (n.d.). Holy-Bible.online. https://holy-bible.online/asv.php (Original work published 1901)

In-Text Citation Structure:

When quoting or paraphrasing specific excerpts from the text, use the name/version of the Bible, the year(s) (remember to write the original publication year, a slash, and then the year of the version you are using), the chapter name, the verse, and then the line.

( Version name , Year, Chapter name line:verse)

In-Text Citation Example:

The Bible extols the virtues of love; “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud” ( King James Bible , 1769/2019, 1 Corinthians 13:4).

APA Formatting Guide

APA Formatting

• Annotated Bibliography
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• et al Usage
• In-text Citations
• Multiple Authors
• Paraphrasing
• Page Numbers
• Parenthetical Citations
• Reference Page
• Sample Paper
• APA 7 Updates
• View APA Guide

Citation Examples

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• Magazine Article
• Newspaper Article
• Website (no author)
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To cite a bible verse in APA style, it is important that you know some basic information such as the bible version, year, chapter number, verse number, and/or URL (uniform resource locator). The templates for in-text citations and reference list entry of a bible verse along with examples are given below:

In-text citation templates and examples:

Set the bible version in italics along with the year. Include the biblical abbreviation for the book, chapter number, and verse number. There is no need to include the page number.

Bible version (Year, Book Name Chapter #:Verse #)

GOD’S WORD Translation (1995, Ruth 4:1)

Parenthetical:

( Bible Version , Publication Year, Book Name Chapter #:Verse #)

( GOD’S WORD Translation , 1995, Ruth 4:1)

Reference list entry template and example:

Title of the Bible Version . (Year). Publisher. URL

GOD’S WORD Translation . (1995). Bible Study Tools. https://www.biblestudytools.com/gw/ruth/4.html

The Bible is italicized both in the in-text citation and in the reference list entry.

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Find your librarian, schedule a research appointment, today's hours : , in-text citations:.

Template :  

(Bible Version, Date of Publication, Book chapter and verse)

Parenthetical

( English Standard Version Bible , 2001, Luke 6:31)

( New International Version , 1978/2011, Ephesians 3:20)

( King James Bible , 1769/2017, Ecclesiastes 12:12)

Narrative Citation

Luke 6:31 ( English Standard Version Bible , 2001)

Ephesians 3:20 ( New International Version , 1978/2011)

Ecclesiastes 12:12 ( King James Bible , 1769/2017)

Bibliography Entries:

When quoting the Bible you must cite the Bible version in the in-text and reference citations. Bibles will be referenced according to the type of source used whether a hard, printed copy of the Bible or an online version. 

Hard Copy/Printed Examples:

English Standard Version.  (2001). Crossway Bibles.

New International Version Bible.  (2011). Zondervan. (Original work published 1978)

King James Bible.  (2017). Cambridge University Press. (Original work published 1769)

Online/Web Examples:

English Standard Version Bible . (2001). ESV Online.  https://esv.literalword.com/

New International Version Bible . (2011). The NIV Bible.  https://www.thenivbible.com  (Original work published 1978)

King James Bible . (2017). King James Bible Online.  https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/  (Original work published 1769)

Concordances & Lexicons

There is no strict advice in the APA Style Manual about citing concordances or lexicons. The Research Librarians decided to model these entries similar to dictionary citations. The APA website offers specific guidance on how to structure dictionary entries. You can structure your concordance or lexicon entries in a similar fashion, as follows:

Template: Name of Concordance. (Publication date). Number & word. Access point . Retrieval date, retrieval link.

• Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. (n.d). 430 elohim: God, god. In  Bible Hub.com . Retrieved February 21, 2022, from  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/430.htm 
• (Strong's, n.d., 430)

Template: Author/editor/publisher. (Publication date). Number & word. Name of concordance or lexicon (edition, page number).

• Strong, J. (1996). 430 elohim: God, god. In Strong's exhaustive concordance of the Bible (p. 153). 
• (Strong, 1996, p. 153)
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• In-text citations
• Articles from Journals, Magazines and Newspapers

Bible citations for Fenimore & Fisher College of Business

Bible citations according to apa 7th (for colleges other than the f&fcob).

• Dictionary or Encyclopedia
• Social Media and Blogs
• Specialized Databases
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For scripture citations, the ORU College of Business observes the guidelines of the 6th edition of the APA  style manual rather than the current (7th) edition.

According to the 6th edition, an entry on the reference list is not required for Bible verses quoted or paraphrased. Instead, place an in-text citation after the quotation or paraphrase, indicating on the first reference the version or translation used. 

If it is a paraphrase, the version is not required unless you believe it is relevant to the way you interpret it.  

Throughout his long career, Mr. Brown has exemplified the admonishment of St. Paul to do everything as though working for God (Col. 3:23). 

If it is a direct quotation, identify the version or translation you used. There is no need to repeat the version name in subsequent references if same version is used.

The team faced their daunting task encouraged by the words of Jesus: "with God all things are possible" (Matt. 19:26, New King James Version).

A narrative citation incorporates the reference into the text. This method can be used for a paraphrase or quotation, but if it is a quotation, the version should be indicated in parentheses after the quotation.

In Col. 3:23, St. Paul instructs Christians to give all they have to every endeavor, as thought doing it for God.

In Col. 3:23, St. Paul instructs Christians to work as though "working for the Lord rather than for people" (New Living Translation).

Amplified Bible . (2015). Bible Gateway. https://www.biblegateway.com (Original work published 1965)

Barker, K. (Ed.). (1985). The NIV study Bible: New International Version . Zondervan.

Holy Bible, New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers (Original work published 1996).

The Holy Bible, New International Version . (1984). International Bible Society. (Original work published 1973).

The Holy Bible, New International Version . (2011). Blue Letter Bible. https://www.blueletterbible.org/niv/index.cfm (Original work published 1973)

Holy Bible, New Living Translation . (2015). BibleGateway. https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-Living-Translation-NLT-Bible/ (Original work published 1996)

King James Bible. (2017). King James Bible Online. https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/ (Original work published 1769)

New King James Bible . (2004). Thomas Nelson (Original work published 1982).

Peterson, E. H. (2018). The message . Bible Gateway. https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/Message-MSG-Bible/ (Original work published 1993)

Peterson, E. H. (2018). The message: The Bible in contemporary language . NavPress.

Author: APA 7th considers religious works to have no author, so the title of the version is in the position of the author and italicized. Study Bible citations should include the editor.

Date: For printed Bibles, consult the back of the title page for the publication date. If the year original publication is given, include it at the end. (APA. pp. 302, 303, 325)

Title: Use the title on the title page of a printed Bible or on the web page.

For more examples and guidance on citing religious works, see opens new window https://apastyle.apa.org/style-grammar-guidelines/references/examples/religious-work-references and pages 264, 274, 302, 303, and 325 of the APA manual.

First citation:

( Amplified Bible , 1965/2015, John 3:16)

( Holy Bible, New Living Translation [NLT] , 1996/2015) OR ( Holy Bible, New Living Translation [NLT] , 1996/2015, Psalms 37:4)

(The Holy Bible, New International Version [NIV] , 1973/2011) OR (The Holy Bible, New International Version [NIV] , 1973/2011, Psalms 37:4)

( New King James Bible [NKJ] , 1982/2004) OR ( New King James Bible [NKJ] , 1982/2004, Mark 8:36)

(Peterson, 2018) OR (Peterson, 2002, Psalms 37:4)

Subsequent citations:

( NIV , 1973/2011) OR ( NIV , 1973/2011, Psalms 37:4)

( NKJ , 1982/2004) OR ( NKJ , 1982/2004, Psalms37:4)

( NLT , 1996/2015) OR ( NLT , 1996/2015, Psalms 37:4)

Note: In-text citations of the Bible may include the book, chapter and verse if the reference is not mentioned in the text. The original publication year and the publication year for the edition used are also given. (APA 7th, p. 274)

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Citation & Format Guide: Bible

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Citing the Bible

• Abbreviations
• Study Bibles
• Biblical Commentaries

Within the body of your text, books of the Bible are generally spelled out. Do not abbreviate, italicize or underline.

• According to Genesis 1:27, God created man in his own image.

If referencing in the body of your text a list of Biblical references, then abbrevations may be used.

• My concordance lists five instances of the word nourish: Gen. 47:12, Ruth 4:15, Isa. 44:14, Acts 7:21, and 1 Tim. 4:6.

Abbreviations may also be used in footnotes as follows:

• For abbreviations of the Hebrew Bible see CMOS 10.45
• For abbreviations of the Apocrypha see CMOS 10.46
• For abbreviations of the New Testament see CMOS 10.47
• For abbreviations of versions and sections of the Bible see CMOS 10.48

Chicago Style includes two types of abbreviations for books of the Bible, you can select either form but be consistent in your usage.

In-Text or Parenthetical Citation

References to scripture can appear in the body of your text  with parenthetical citation. 

"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you" (Isa. 26:3 NRSV).

Include the version of the Bible you are using the first time you reference a chapter and verse.  There is no need to include the version after. If citing from multiple versions, then include the version after each citation.

If you reference the name of a biblical book in your text, do not italicize, underline or abbreviate the title.

Genesis is the first book of the Hebrew Bible.

To cite scripture in a footnote, include the following:

Abbreviate book name Chapter #:Verse #  (Name or abbreviation of translation)

Cite chapter and verse in arabic numerals, no page numbers should be provided. A colon is used between the chapter and verse. When referencing consecutive verses, separate the first and last verse numbers by an en dash, not a hyphen. When citing multiple passages from the same biblical book, use a semicolon to separate the passages.List the passages in canonical and numerical order.

For example:

1 Thess. 4:11, 5:2–5, 5:14 (New Revised Standard Version)

Matt 2:3; 3:4–6; 4:3, 7; Luke 3:6, 8; 12:2, 5 (NRSV)

If you're using the same version of the Bible, you can insert a note as follows after the first scripture footnote:

All subsequent scripture quotations are taken from the New Revised Standard Version unless otherwise stated.

Shortened Footnote

Thess. 4:11 (NRSV)

When referencing notes from a study Bible, do not treat these as part of the Bible. When citing such notes, or any of the accompanying articles, include all the information from the specific study Bible you consulted.

#. David L. Petersen, “Ezekiel,” in The HarperCollins Study Bible Fully Revised and Updated: New Revised Standard Version, with the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical Books , ed. Harold W. Attridge et al. (San Francisco: HarperSanFrancisco, 2006), 1096. 

Shortened footnote

Petersen, “Ezekiel,” 1096.

Bibliography

Petersen, David L. “Ezekiel.” Pages 1096-1167 in T he HarperCollins Study Bible Fully Revised and Updated, New Revised Standard Version, with the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical Books . Edited by Harold W. Attridge et al. San Francisco: HarperSanFrancisco, 2006. 

Biblical Reference - Additional Resources

For more detailed information on referencing material from the Bible, please consult the Student Supplement for The SBL Handbook of Style, 2nd ed .

• SBL Handbook of Style Blog: Explanations, Clarifications, and Expansions This supplementary blog is maintained by the editors of the SBL Handbook and highlights changes from the second edition and notes corrections and additions that will be included in the third edition.
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APA 7th Edition: Citing the Bible

• What's New in the 7th Edition
• Student Papers & Professional Papers
• Social Media
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• In-Text Citations
• Additional Help

Citing the Bible

Citing the bible apa 7.

The APA Manual sections dealing with religious work are found in section 10.2 (35), section 9.42, section 8.13, and section 8.28.

When quoting the Bible, you must cite the Bible version in the body of the paper and include it in your reference list. When citing the Bible the in-text citation should follow the order of the template as shown here:

Template:  Bible Version , Date of Publication, Book chapter and verse. Example:  ( Holy Bible ,  New Living Translation , 1996/2015, Luke 6:31)

Use the guidelines found here or in the manual (sections mentioned above) to create your references: APA 7 Religious Works References

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General guidelines for citing the Bible in APA 7 format:

Bible passages are classified as "religious and classical" books without authors and must be included with your References if they are mentioned in your text. (This is a new rule with the APA 7th ed.)

In-Text Citations

Bible Version, Date of Publication, Book chapter and verse.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.” (New International Version, 1973/1984, John 1:1-2)

Version. (YEAR). Publisher. (Original work published YEAR).

Example (Bible):

New International Version. (1984). International Bible Society. (Original work published 1973).

Example (religious work online):

King James Bible. (2017). King James Bible Online. https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/

(Original work published 1769)

Example (YouVersion Bible mobile app):

Amplified Bible. (2015). YouVersion (Version 8.23, RED 2.10.1.2272) [Mobile app].

https://www.youversion.com/the-bible-app/ (Original work published 1965)

Tips for using a mobile app:

• In YouVersion , the year of publication is found at the bottom of every page of scriptural text and the mobile app version is found at the bottom of the "About" page of the "More" menu on the Home page.
• Always include the URL for an app if possible.
• See the APA blog for more information about citing and referencing mobile apps and entries from mobile apps .

To see a detailed discussion of citing the Bible take a look at one of the sample papers below.

• Sample professional paper Example of a professional paper formatted in APA 7th edition.
• Sample student paper Example of a student paper formatted in APA 7th edition style.
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How to Cite the Bible

Last Updated: May 7, 2020

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Jennifer Mueller is a wikiHow Content Creator. She specializes in reviewing, fact-checking, and evaluating wikiHow's content to ensure thoroughness and accuracy. Jennifer holds a JD from Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 2006. This article has been viewed 365,953 times. Learn more...

When used as a reference in research papers or articles, the Bible and other classic works have a different citation format than other works. The specifics also vary depending on whether you're using the Modern Language Association (MLA), American Psychological Association (APA), or Chicago/Turabian citation styles. Turabian is the student's version of the Chicago manual, which is more extensive. Neither APA nor Chicago requires a full citation entry in your reference list at the end of your paper. However, your instructor or editor may want one. [1] X Research source

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• Example: The New Oxford Annotated Bible.

Variation: If the version you used has a specific author listed, lead with the author's name, then provide the title of the version. For example: Peterson, Eugene H. The Message: The Bible in Contemporary Language.

• Example: The New Oxford Annotated Bible. Edited by Michael D. Coogan,

• Example: The New Oxford Annotated Bible. Edited by Michael D. Coogan, Oxford University Press, 2007.

MLA Works Cited Entry Format:

Title of Version in Title Case . Edited by First Name A. Last Name, Publisher, Year.

• Example: New International Version. Bible Gateway, www.biblegateway.com. Accessed 29 Jan. 2019.

• Example: ( New International Version , Rom. 12.2).

• In-text citations are designed to point your readers to the full citation listed in your Works Cited. If you used several different versions of the Bible as sources, let your readers know when you've switched to a different version by adding the name of the version to the parenthetical citation.

• For example: "In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly father" (Matt. 5:16 New Living Translation).

• For example: "In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly father" (Matt. 5:16).
• If you switch to a different version, for example, if you were comparing translations, then you would list the different version in the parenthetical citation.

Tip: If you're using the same version and you list the book, chapter, and verse in the body of your paper, no parenthetical citation is needed.

• For example, your reference list entry might look like this: The New Oxford Annotated Bible. (2007). M. D. Coogan (Ed.). Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.

Chicago/Turabian

• Example: 1 Cor. 13:4
• If you're citing several books or chapters of the same book in the same footnote, separate those citations with a semi-colon. For example: 1 Cor. 13:4; 15:12-29.
• A list of abbreviations used in Chicago or Turabian style can be found at http://hbl.gcc.libguides.com/BibleAbbrevChicago if you don't have a copy of the manual handy.

Tip: Chicago has a list of traditional abbreviations as well as another list of shorter abbreviations. Typically you can use either as long as you use the same one consistently. However, you may want to ask your editor or instructor which they prefer.

• Example: 1 Cor. 13:4 Revised Standard Version
• After your first footnote, there's no need to add the name of the version unless you switch to a different version, such as if you were comparing translations.

• For example, your bibliography entry might be formatted like this: Coogan, Michael D., ed. The New Oxford Annotated Bible. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2007.
• ↑ https://www.messiah.edu/download/downloads/id/1647/bible_cite.pdf
• ↑ http://libanswers.hiu.edu/faq/40591
• ↑ https://hbl.gcc.libguides.com/c.php?g=339562&p=2286667
• ↑ https://hbl.gcc.libguides.com/c.php?g=339562&p=2286666

Community Q&A

• If you're using an annotated or study Bible and quote or paraphrase an annotation or study guide notes, cite the book as you would any other book. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• When mentioning the Bible generally in the body of your paper, the title is capitalized but not italicized or underlined. However, if you are mentioning a specific annotated or study Bible with its own title, format the title the same as you would titles to other books (usually in italics). Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Some versions of the Bible use Roman numerals for books of the Bible. Don't use Roman numerals either in your paper or in your citations. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

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About This Article

If you want to cite the Bible using MLA format, start with the title of the specific version of the Bible you used in italics. Then, include the editor's name, if listed, the name of the publisher, and the year it was published. You will also want to list the URL and the date you accessed the site, if you are citing an online Bible. To write your first in-text citation in MLA format, follow the quote with the italicized title of the Bible that you used, followed by a comma, then the book, chapter, and verse. After the first citation, your subsequent citations won't need to include the title. For more advice, including how to cite the bible in APA format, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Citing Theological Sources: How to do a Bibliography: Bible & Bible Reference Sources

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How to Cite the Bible

Gen 12:27 ( NJPS ) or Gen 12:27 ( NJB ); Rom 5:12-21 ( NRSV ) or Rom 5:12-21 ( KJV ).

Or, in an in-text citation:  (Rom 5:12-21 NRSV ) or (Gen 12:27 NJPS )  

Use the abbreviation for the English version you are using.  NJPS for New Jewish Publication Society , NAB for New American Bible , NJB for the New Jerusalem Bible , etc. 

If you will use the same version throughout, you can include a footnote or endnote to that effect the first time you use a biblical citation.

If you are quoting biblical verses that are the same in many versions of the Bible, you do not need to cite the Jewish Study Bible or the New Oxford Annotated or the HarperCollins Study Bible in the in-text citation.

If a biblical book is the first word in a sentence, do not abbreviate it.  Example:  "We see this in Rom 5:12 ( NRSV )..."   But when it comes first in the sentence:  "Romans 5:12 shows us this...."

The Bible - Using MLA

It is advisable simply to cite by chapter/verses with Scripture abbreviation, chapter/verse placed parenthetically in your text. Do not use an endnote. In the bibliography, list the version/translation of the Bible as given on the title page, making sure the version/translation is indicated even if not actually given on the title page proper. You can add it on your own. When citing more than one Bible version in your paper, consult your instructor.  

Follow Bible book title abbreviations as in MLA or as recommended by your instructor 

Within the text of your paper:

(Gen 22:10) (1 Cor 13:5)  

In your paper's bibliography (you must indicate the version): 

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. New York: Oxford University, 1996.  

  How to Cite the Bible: MLA

General Guidelines:  Books and versions of the Bible are not underlined, italicized, or put in quotation marks.  But the titles of individual published editions of the Bible are underlined or italicized.

Example:   The King James Version of the Bible was originally published in 1611. 

Example:  The Catholic Study Bible includes an introduction to each book of the Bible.

  Parenthetical References

       • Books of the Bible are abbreviated; see the MLA Handbook for common abbreviations. Example: (Phil. 3.8) • A period, not a colon, separates chapter and verse. • When you first refer to a particular translation, include the name, a comma, and then the passage. Examples: New Jerusalem Bible , Ezek. 2.6-8 • After this, only include the scripture reference, unless you switch translations.

  *** Information taken from MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers , 7 th ed., 2009, sections 6.4.8, 7.7.1, and 5.6.2.

Common Abbreviations for Bible Reference Sources

Jewish Publication Society Torah Commentary - JPS Torah Commentary

Interpreter's Dictionary of the Bible - IDB

New Jerome Biblical Commentary - NJBC

Anchor Bible Dictionary - ABD

Harper's Bible Commentary (1988) - HBC

HarperCollins Bible Dictionary - HBD

New Interpreter's Bible - NIB

Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible - EDB

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia - ISBE

Abbreviations for Selected Apocryphal Works

Selected Apocryphal Works 

  1 Information taken from MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th ed., 2009, section 7.7.1.

MLA - Citing Bible Reference Sources

How to cite encyclopedia or dictionary entries:  

To find entry authors, look at the end of the entry -- often "signed" by contributor. Cite unsigned articles by title only.

Bibliography (entry author, set editor, multi-volume):    

Klauck, Hans-Josef. "Lord's Supper." The Anchor Bible Dictionary . Ed. David Noel Freedman. Vol. 2. New York: Doubleday, 1992.  

Endnote or footnote:  

8. Hans-Josef Klauck, "Lord's Supper," The Anchor Bible Dictionary , ed. David Noel Freedman, vol. 2 (New York: Doubleday, 1992) 485.  

In-text citation:  (Klauck 485)  

Note  that quotations around entry title. From the book itself be sure to record publishing data and editor(s) from title page of the whole work. Also note that normal word order style is used for editor's name.

How to cite a Concordance:  

               (Author of Article)                Last Name, First Name. “Title of Entry.” Title of Concordance . Ed. Name of Editor, if applicable. Edition, if applicable. City of Pub.: Publisher, Year.    Medium of Publication.

               Example:

               Goodrick, Edward W., and John R. Kohlberger III.  “Mount.” The New Concordance of the Bible. Englewood Cliffs: Prentice-Hall, 1990. Print.

*** For further information, see 5.5.7 (p. 160-61)

How to cite a Bible Commentary in a larger work:  

See Books above for series volume by individual author. In a large work like a commentary with many essays on specific books or chapters, it is often the case that individual commentaries are written by different scholars and the overall work itself has a 'general' editor.  In these cases, this general editor is NOT the author. In MLA style the editor need not be listed but, for clarity, many students add the general editor after the book title.

Bibliography:  

Option 1: Weems, Renita J. "Song of Songs." The New Interpreter's Bible . Vol. 5. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1997.

Option 2: Weems, Renita J. "Song of Songs." The New Interpreter's Bible . Ed. Leander E. Keck. Vol. 5. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1997.

(See the most current MLA Handbook for detailed full citation discussion, a list of all elements (in order), and punctuation rules, and for endnotes or footnotes, or the in-text citation option.)

How to cite an essay in a collection:    

Many items in books featuring articles that are indexed by the ATLA Religion Database are essays that are contributions to published works -- in a 'collection.'  Cite these essays as a "part" of a collected work.  Use quotation marks around the essay title.  Be sure to include all full data for the collection in which the essay appears.

Bibliography (authors, editor, multi-volume). Note abbreviations for editors, editions, and volume numbers.  

Ewbank, Michael B, and H. Aityni. "The Difference Diversity Makes." Saints, Sovereigns, and Scholars . Ed. Robert A. Herrera. Vol. 2. New York: Peter Lang, 1993.  

11. Michael B. Ewbank and H. Aityni, "The Difference Diversity Makes," Saints, Sovereigns, and Scholars , ed. Robert A. Herrera, vol. 2. (New York: Peter Lang, 1993) 13-14.. 

In-text citation (Ewbank 16-17)   

How to cite a chapter in an edited book in a multi-volume work:   (Such as the New Interpreter’s Bible .) 

Last Name, First Name. “Title of Chapter.” Title of Commentary . Edition, if applicable. City of Pub.: Publisher, Year. Inclusive Page #s of chapter. Medium of Publication. Vol. # of Title of Work , Ed. Editor of Work.  # of vols. Inclusive publication dates.  

Example:   

Longenecker, Richard N.  “Acts.” John and Acts . Minneapolis: Liturgical Press, 1981. 205-573.  Print.  Vol. 9 of The Expositor’s Bible Commentary . Ed. Frank E. Gæbelein. 12  vols. 1976-92.  

*** For further information, see 5.5.6 (pp. 157-60) & 5.5.14 (pp. 168-70) of the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th ed. 

How to cite a book in a Series: (Such as the Anchor Yale Bible Series)).

Last Name, First Name. Title of Commentary . Ed. Name of Series Editor.  City of Pub.: Publisher, Year. Medium of Publication. Name of Series. Number in series, if available.

Example:  

Fox, Michael V. Proverbs : a New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. New York: Doubleday, 2000. Print. The Anchor Yal Bible Ser. 18A-B.  

             *** For further information, see 5.5.15 (pp. 170) of the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th ed.

The Bible - Society of Biblical Literature Handbook of Style

The Society of Biblical Literature has posted an online style guide for students on the web.  This guide will explain most of the specifics you need.  It is a pdf at  

https://www.sbl-site.org/assets/pdfs/pubs/SBLHSsupp2015-02.pdf You'll need to scroll down past the preface and title page.

Or you can find an unabridged print copy in the Ireland Library Reference Room at:

Emory University's SBL Citation Builder

• Emory University's SBL Citation Builder SBL style is designed for students and scholars writing in the disciplines of ancient Near Eastern studies, Biblical studies, and studies of early Christianity.
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APA Referencing - Education & CCSC students: Bible

• Abbreviations
• Journal article
• Quotes & citations
• Reference lists
• Referencing questions
• Audiovisual works
• Brochure or pamphlet
• Conference paper
• Dictionary/Encyclopedia
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How to reference the Bible

Apa 7th edition.

More information on the APA website

How to reference the Bible (APA7)

The Bible is treated like a book with no author. In the in-text citation, the original year of publication is given, along with the publication year of the current version or reprinting, separated by a forward slash. When referring to a verse or passage, give the Bible reference instead of page numbers.  Refer to the copyright page in the version of the Bible you are using to find the details for your citation.  Copyright information for many versions is available on https://biblegateway.com/versions .

The first time you cite the Bible in a paper, provide the full title. If you wish to abbreviate the title for subsequent citations, give the abbreviation in square brackets. Choose narrative or parenthetical style for each citation. See the examples below for a variety of formats.

In-text citation examples

Narrative Citation

Title  (Date of Original Publication/Date of Publication)

Parenthetical Citation

( Title, Date of Original Publication/Date of Publication)

Parenthetical Citation with bible reference

( Title , Date of Original Publication/Date of Publication, Book Chapter:Verse)

Quotation with Citation and Abbreviation

( Title  [ Abbrev ], Date of Publication, Book Chapter:Verse)

NB: 1982 is the original publication date and the date of this edition of the NKJV. 

More information --  Abbreviating titles and organisation names

Reference list examples

Title.  (Date of Publication). Publisher. (Original work published date)

King James Version

NB: 1611 is the original publication date. 2011 is the date of this edition of the King James Version. 

New King James Version

Multiple references in the same citation

Multiple bible references in the same citation.

If citing multiple verses of the the Bible in one in-text citation, list the books in biblical order separated by a comma.

In-text citation

Reference list

Biblical and non-biblical references in the same in-text citation

Biblical and non-biblical references in the same in-text citation.

When inserting more than one biblical and non-biblical references at the same point, use the same set of parentheses. List the Bible references first, in biblical order, and then the author references, in alphabetical order. Use a semi-colon to separate each reference.

Examples from NIV with abbreviated title

Abbreviated title.

Narrative citation first time cited

Narrative citation for second and following citations

Parenthetical citation first time cited

Parenthetical citation for second and following citations

Reference for an online Bible

Online bible.

Example 1  King James Bible

Title. ( Date of Publication). Name of Website. URL. (Original work published date)

Example 2 Bible Gateway 

Bible app on mobile device

Reference the version of the Bible on the app, not the app itself. Use a similar format to a print Bible. If the publisher is not provided, give a website URL, as for an online Bible. Copyright information for many versions is available on https://biblegateway.com/versions .

Title. ( Date of Publication). Publisher. (Original work published date)

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Style Guide for Research Papers: Citing the Bible

• Style & Format
• Citing the Bible
• Footnotes & Bibliography
• Citing Books
• Citing Commentaries
• Citing Dictionaries/Encyclopedias
• Citing Journals
• Citing Lexicons
• Citing Digital Media
• Abbreviations
• Model Title Page

Biblical Citations

Parenthetical citation of bible references.

            It is common for papers in the fields of Bible and theology to cite or reference the Bible throughout the paper. This is particularly true for exegetical papers that interact extensively with the biblical text. Rather than placing references to the Bible in footnotes, the department requires students to employ parenthetical, in-text citation of the Bible, following the quotation or reference. For example:

Jesus made clear the necessity of spiritual rebirth when he told Nicodemus “unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3).

If the reference appears in the sentence, no parenthetical citation is necessary. If the context of the discussion makes clear the larger context of the book, the parenthetical citation can include just the chapter and verse(s).

In the Gospel of John, Jesus tells Nicodemus you must be “born again” (3:3). Nicodemus responds with a sense of bewilderment and Jesus declares that he must “be born of water and the Spirit” (3:5).

Identification of the Version of the Bible

            References to Bible versions should not include the publisher’s information in either the footnotes or bibliography. Instead, refer to bible versions by their standard abbreviations in the body of the paper (e.g., NIV, ESV, NASB, NRSV; see “Abbreviations of Bible Versions” in this guide, also SBLHS2 8.3.1-3).

If one version of the Bible is used throughout the paper, identify the version in a footnote. After the first time the Bible is used in the paper, a footnotes with a phrase such as “All references are from the NASB and for all future references unless noted” will suffice. If, on the other hand, various versions are used, these must be identified with each reference otherwise the reader will not know the version. This should be done in the parenthetical citation, e.g., (John 3:3 NASB).

How to Indicate Chapter and Verse in Biblical References

References to Biblical passages should not use the word “chapter” or “verse” between the chapter or verse numbers. Instead, the chapter should be represented by an Arabic numeral, followed by a colon, followed by the Arabic numeral for the verse or verse range. For example, the sixteenth verse of the third chapter of the Gospel of John would be referred to as “John 3:16,” not “John chapter 3 verse 16.”

How to List Multiple Biblical References

            If multiple biblical passages are in a list, separate verses by a comma, but separate chapters and books by a semicolon. Use an en dash to show a range of verses. For example:

            Matthew 6:16, 18; 17:21; 20:16; Mark 7:8; 16:9–20; Luke 11:2–4, 6; John 7:53–8:11.

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Guide to Chicago/Turabian Style for Seminarians

• Elements of a Paper in Chicago Style
• When and Why to Cite Your Sources
• Citing Sources: The Three Requirements
• How to Use "Ibid."
• Creating Footnotes in MS Word or Google Docs
• Examples of Citations in Chicago Style
• Citing the Bible, and Citing the Notes in a Study Bible
• Citing a Source Within a Source
• Seminary Research Ring

How to Cite the Bible in a Chicago-Style Paper

Confusingly, the Bible (as well as epic poems like Paradise Lost , and ancient sources like Josephus or the Church Fathers) is cited differently than most secondary source material in Chicago style. For the Bible, just as you would with any other source, you should offer a full citation in your bibliography and in the first footnote reference to the specific edition of the text to which you are referring. This is because there are many different version of the Bible, and your information pertains specifically to the one you’re using. However, instead of citing a page number in your footnote, you should give an appropriate reference in parentheses at the end of your sentence. Moreover, after you have given a full footnote citation, you no longer need to footnote the text at all; simply provide the necessary information in parentheses within the body of your paper. Examples follow.

Bibliography Attridge, Harold W., et al., eds. The HarperCollins Study Bible: New Revised Standard Version, with the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical Books . San Francisco: HarperSanFrancisco, 2006.

First footnote

1 Harold W. Attridge et al., eds., The HarperCollins Study Bible: New Revised Standard Version, with the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical Books (San Francisco: HarperSanFrancisco, 2006).

In the body of your paper

“He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years, and threw him into the pit, and locked and sealed it over him, so that he would deceive the nations no more, until the thousand years were ended. After that he must be let out for a little while” (Revelation 20:2-3).

Note that the first time you identify a biblical book in your paper, the book name is spelled out fully. Any subsequent reference to that biblical book should be abbreviated with no period after the abbreviation (ex., Rev 20:4-5).

Citing the Notes in a Study Bible

If you refer in your paper to the commentary-style notes in a study Bible, you should credit the author of the notes. There will typically be a list of contributors in the book's front matter, which will identify who wrote the introduction and notes to each biblical book. Here is an example of a first footnote and subsequent footnote for

1 Mark E. Biddle, Notes on Jeremiah, The New Oxford Annotated Bible (augmented 3rd ed., NRSV, Michael D. Coogan et al., eds., Oxford/New York: Oxford University Press, 2007), 1142.

3 Biddle, Notes on Jeremiah, 1144.

For your bibliography, assuming you are using that version of the Bible for all the biblical references in your paper, you only need to cite the version of the Bible -- you do not need a separate bibliographic entry for the author of the study notes.

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Turabian Writing Guide: Citing the Bible

• Bibliography

Citing the Bible

Writing center.

The Liberty University Writing Center is available to provide writing coaching to students. Residential students should contact the  On-Campus Writing Center  for assistance. Online students should contact the  Online Writing Center  for assistance.

Scripture Citations

As a sacred work, you do not include the Bible in your bibliography. All Bible verses will be mentioned parenthetically only . Rather than footnoting the first instance (and including “unless otherwise noted”) as in previous versions of Turabian, the version of the Bible being used will be noted in parentheses, spelled out, after the first Bible citation. The version will not be mentioned again unless version is changed. If only one version is used in a paper, then the version will only be spelled out fully in that first citation. If the student uses more than one version, however, the first instance of each Bible version will be spelled out fully, and then its abbreviation must be used as necessary for the reader to discern which version is being referenced.

• When citing from multiple translations within a paper, the version abbreviation should be included within the in-text parentheses. For example, (Mark 3:12, NASB).
• Books of the Bible should be abbreviated when referenced in parentheses. For examples, see the Writing Center's Sacred Book Reference List or the CMOS pages for Old Testament books (10.45) , Apocrypha (10.46) and New Testament books (10.47) .
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Citing the Bible and other Biblical Resources

• Turabian Style

Turabian Style -- General Guidelines

Footnotes/endnotes/parenthetical references.

• Chicago Style
• Citing Bible Commentaries
• Print Examples
• Database Examples
• Web Examples
• Citing Bible Atlases
• Citation Key

Referring to whole chapters/whole books of the Bible or Apocrypha in the text

• Spell out the names of the books; do not italicize or underline them.   

  Example :  2 Samuel 12 records the prophet Nathan’s confrontation of King David.

  Example :  The identity of the author of the book of Hebrews is not certain.

Cite the Bible in footnotes, endnotes, or parenthetical citations.  

• You do not need to include the Bible in your bibliography/reference list.

When you are citing a particular passage of Scripture  

• Include the abbreviated name of the book, the chapter number, and the verse number—never a page number. 
• Chapter and verse are separated by a colon.

Example :  1 Cor. 13:4, 15:12-19

Example :  Gn 1:1-2, 2:1-3; Jn 1:1-14

Turabian includes two lists of abbreviations for books of the Bible.  

• A traditional abbreviation list and a shorter abbreviation list. 
• Access  the lists of abbreviations . 
• You may use either list, but be consistent throughout your paper.  Or if you like, you may check with your professor.

Include the name of the version you are citing . 

• Spell out the name of the version, at least in the first reference, or use abbreviations without preceding or internal punctuation. 
• After the first citation indicate the version only if you quote from another version.

** Information taken from A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations , 9 th ed., 2018, sections 17.8.2, 19.8.2, and 24.6.1-4. Note:  A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations , edited by Kate L. Turabian, is an abbreviated version of The Chicago Manual of Style .

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How to Cite Sources in SBL and Format Papers: Citing the Bible

• Citing the Bible
• CCEL (Christian Classics Ethereal Library)
• Commentaries
• Theses and Dissertations
• Encyclopedia and Lexicon Entries
• Journal Article
• Motion Pictures/Videos
• Formats for Paper
• Formats for Presentations or Websites

SBL - 8.2 and 8.3.1-3, *Turabian 9th edition – 17.8.2 and 24.6

*Do not include the Bible and other sacred works in the bibliography.

Cite Bible verses with chapter and verse(s) using arabic numerals separated by a colon. Do not write out the numbers.

YES:     John 5:8-9

NO:     John chapter five verses eight and nine.

Use abbreviations for the books of the Bible when citing texts or referencing them. Do not abbreviate the name of the book if it starts a sentence or is a reference to the entire book or the author.

YES:     Revelation 3 begins with the letter to the church in Sardis.

             We know little about the historical Habakkuk.

NO:     Rev 3 begins with the letter to the church in Sardis.

           We know little about the historical Hab.

When quoting the biblical text you should include the version being quoted the first time a version is being used. It will be assumed that you will continue to use that same translation throughout your paper. If you change translations, you must indicate the change. Quoting the biblical text does not require a footnote or a citation in the reference page. You would only cite the Bible, in notes or reference page, if you used study notes, commentary, articles or maps.

"Now Ahab had seventy sons in Samaria" (2 Kgs 10:1 NRSV).

Other quotations would leave out the reference to the translation.

A note about numerals and numbers

Numbers are typically spelled out for zero through ninety-nine, especially if it is done in two words. Numbers like 2.543 are written with numerals even though they are less than one hundred. Numbers greater than 100 are often presented as numerals, with some exceptions for numbers that can be written in two word, e.g. four thousand. If the number is to be followed by a measurement, e.g. milliliters, then use numerals and not words. The important aspect is to keep consistent; if a paragraph is presenting mathematical data and one place the data is a round number, continue to use the numerals as that is consistent.

Do not begin a sentence with a numeral.

When citing a Biblical passage, use numerals. The exception is when the numeral would start a sentence, in which case write out the number, e.g. First Peter 2:4 is an important verse....

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How to Cite an eBook or Bible in an Academic Paper

A common misunderstanding about electronic resources is that they cannot be used in an academic setting due to lack of page numbers. In fact, MLA, APA, and Chicago all include instruction on how to provide citations for ebooks. The below information has been fact-checked, although we recommend that you speak with your library, professor, or institution’s plagiarism council to confirm their specific rules and preferences.

If you’re a student, bookmark this page for later!

Table of contents

Finding resource information in the app, no page numbers no problem, further reading on mla style, notes & bibliography style, religious works, further reading on apa style, further reading.

To find the information you need to make a citation in the Olive Tree Bible App , simply go to your Library and either long-press the cover or tap the three dots (depending on your Library View). Go to “ View Resource Info ” and it’s all right there. Sometimes, you can also find relevant information at the very beginning or end of the book or by searching for “ copyright ” in the book.

For Windows and Mac, right-click the title in your library and click “ View Resource Info “.

MLA (8th Edition)

There are many necessary elements to an MLA citation, and it’s your task to piece them together. The general order is:

According to the MLA Handbook, “When a source has no page numbers or any other kind of part number, no number should be given in a parenthetical citation. Do not count unnumbered paragraphs or other parts”. Source

“When citing an e-book in your text, avoid using device-specific numbering systems. In this case, use the chapter number instead”.

Any title you access on the Olive Tree Bible App is classified as an e-book from an e-reader platform. For e-books, MLA requires you to “use the ‘Version’ element to specify that the work you are citing is an e-book—that is, a book that lacks a URL and that you use software to read on a personal device or computer.” Source

If neither the Resource Info nor the text give you the year of publication, be sure to include the date of access.

Bibles cited from the app must also identify the translation if it is not mentioned in the text. Source

“You do not need to provide a separate works-cited-list entry for each hymn, chapter, or surah cited if there are several and they all come from the same general website, unless readers cannot easily find their way from that central place.”  Source

If the source carries a notation indicating that it is a version of a work released in more than one form, identify the version in your entry.

“In the body of your text, general references to scriptural works like the Bible, Talmud, and Koran should not be italicized unless you refer to a specific published edition.” Source

• Purdue OWL: MLA Works Cited: Electronic Sources (Web Publications)
• Purdue OWL: MLA Works Cited Page: Books
• Columbia College: MLA Citation Guide (8th Edition): Books, eBooks & Pamphlets

Chicago and its derivative styles like Turabian and SBL are common in various fields of study, including Theology and Biblical Studies. Read a full guide, including sample papers, from the Purdue OWL.

“In this system, sources are cited in numbered footnotes or endnotes. Each note corresponds to a raised (superscript) number in the text. Sources are also usually listed in a separate bibliography. This system is very flexible and can easily accommodate a wide variety of sources.” Source

“For books consulted online, include a URL or the name of the database. For other types of e-books, name the format. If no fixed page numbers are available, cite a section title or a chapter or other number in the notes.” Source

Author-Date Style

“In this system, sources are briefly cited in the text, usually in parentheses, by author’s last name and year of publication. Each citation in the text matches up with an entry in a reference list, where full bibliographic information is provided.” Source

“For books consulted online, include a URL or the name of the database in the reference list entry. For other types of e-books, name the format. If no fixed page numbers are available, cite a section title or a chapter or other number in the text.” Source

“When Referring to whole chapters or books of the Bible in the text, spell out the names of the book; do not italicize or underline them.” Source

When citing the Bible, there is an approved list of abbreviations for books, sections, and versions of the Bible. However you do it, be consistent! See here

The first time you cite a version, make sure to spell it out or abbreviate it without punctuation.

Further Reading on Chicago/Turabian Style

• Chicago Manual of Style Home Page
• Turabian Style Home Page
• Purdue OWL: Chicago Manual of Style: 17th Edition
• Society of Biblical Literature Handbook of Style Homepage

The American Psychological Association tends to be used in a more scientific background, although it can be found in the writings from many disciplines. For e-books, the APA requires you to “ Use the same formats for both print books and ebooks. For ebooks, the format, platform, or device (e.g., Kindle) is not included in the reference. ” Source

While this mostly means that you can carry on citing books as you always do, there are a couple of things to note ( Source ):

• Don’t include the format (e-book) or app name (Bible Study by Olive Tree).
• Don’t include publisher location.
• Include any edition information in parentheses after the title, without italics.
• You should distinguish between the eBook or audiobook and the print version if the content is different or abridged Source

The Bible is typically treated as a book with no author, although many titles (such as the Complete Jewish Bible and The Message) do indeed have a head editor or translator. When citing religious works in your references, be sure to include both the year of the current publication and of the original publication (see below examples). Source

• American Psychological Association home page
• Purdue OWL: Research and Citation Resources. Click “Citation Chart” to compare formats

Michael Potter worked as a writing assistant for two years at Life Pacific University’s Academic Resource Center. This article has been thoroughly edited and vetted by multiple professors and professionals. If you believe any of the above information to be incorrect or unclear, please (gently) let us know in the comments! We cannot guarantee immediate assistance with citations, although the posted sources should be of some help.

DISCLAIMER: Regardless of the official rules, Olive Tree Bible Software cannot guarantee your professor, academic advisor, or plagiarism board will accept the above citations. It’s always best to confirm any citation-related guidelines with your professor or institution.

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Awesome article thank you very much for your work.

Thanks for amazing article keep it up.

Thanks for interesting article keep it up.

It should automatically format the Bibliographic data in MLA (or other formats of your choice) format, when you copy the text. This is one of the main reasons I chose to invest in Logos.

Hi Randy! I appreciate your comment and agree that is a nice feature to have if you’re writing research papers that require a bibliography. The vast majority of our users aren’t looking to do that, so it’s probably not something we’ll be adding at this point.

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