How to Choose a Bible as a Gift

A Bible may be an appropriate present for Christians on your gift list, but consider reserving such a personal gift for family and close friends.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bible

1. Choose a Bible appropriate for the age of the recipient: a picture Bible for a very young child, a study Bible for a new Christian or a large-print Bible for a senior recipient.

2. Consider the amount you wish to spend. Bibles can fit any budget depending on the cover and reference material you choose.

3. Pick a Bible for special occasions, such as a bride's Bible as a wedding gift, a family history Bible as a housewarming or shower gift, or a study Bible as a graduation gift.

4. Look in Christian bookstores or search online for reviews of the different translations and styles of Bibles.

5. Check the binding and cover for durability if giving a study Bible or family history Bible.

6. Have the recipient's name engraved on the cover. Most Christian bookstores will do this for you at no extra charge if you purchase the Bible at their store.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're unsure of what translation or style to choose, give a gift certificate. Include a Bible dictionary or concordance as a special something from you.

[ant4nrbeauty]

on 2/18/2009 many of the modern translations change words and actually change the meaning into something different.Only king james bibles should be given as gifts to keep from confusing someone , for someone who already reads the bible on their own , I think it's ok for them to read different translations in studying and compare it to king james.

[leemcfatridge]

on 7/15/2008 The New Revised Standard is not a good choice. Not much went into making that translation and a lot is left out. It is the most argued translation out there. A more authentic one live the NASB or the ESV is a better choice if going for a more readable text.

on 11/22/2005 Keep in mind that many conservative Protestants will only use the King James Version (the Authorized Version) of the Bible. Be sure to find out whether the person you'll be giving a Bible to believes in "KJV only."

on 11/22/2005 When giving a Bible to a Catholic, please make sure it is a Catholic Bible. The New American Bible copyright 1995 is the one from which the current (2004) readings for Mass are taken. It is nice to have the version that is used at Mass.

on 11/22/2005 Some Christians only believe in one Bible translation (the original 1611 King James Version). It's best to check or get a gift certificate.