The Bible and its religious, historical and cultural implications

yesSeptember for Chile, brings together several anniversaries and commemorations. The most recent and transcendental has to do with our national independence and by the way, the Glories of the Army. On this occasion and given that the country is given the task of elucidating what should be the form and manner of directing the new Constitution that will be the navigation chart of our Homeland in the future, I allow myself to tell you that in September, it is commemorated among the evangelical-protestant people the Month of the Bible. Specifically in 1569 where the printing of this sacred text into Spanish was concluded and due to its initial characteristics in its presentation, it was known as the “Bear’s Bible” since its cover lucYoto the figure of a bear extracting honey from a honeycomb.

The Spanish translation corresponds to the Spanish religious and reformer Casiodoro de Reina who managed to print some 2,600 copies in the first instance from the Swiss city of Basel.

Of Greek origin, the word bible refers us to “books” and is related to the two great and important divisions: Old and New Testament, which together add up to 66 (39 and 27 specifically), which make up the canon of the sacred writings . Said in good romance, the Bible constitutes the rule or pattern of authority for the Christian world and inserted in our Western culture, reinforcing the faith and its practice.

Peoples and nations make use of and consult their writings as a model or guide when generating their laws or charters. Who has not seen a copy of this book in an office or podium, a witness to acts of oaths or promises that take effect when assuming positions and responsibilities.

We understand that its reading is not easy as far as interpretation is concerned. It is one thing to read and interpret classic writers of universal literature, and another to read, interpret and understand God. Let us agree and declare definitively that its author is God.

Johannes Gutenberg’s printing press in the 1450s opened up a new world of possibilities for the massive reproduction of writing and texts reserved until then, only for those who have the privilege of accessing them. This is how the bible became the written product that marks the beginning of mass printing in the West. A true milestone in the historical transition of humanity.

The Protestant reform itself initiated by Martin Luther is driven by the printing press and the extension of the new doctrine indicated in his well-known theses.

Solomon signs very well the essence and meaning of the Bible; “Desirable are more than gold and more than much refined gold, and sweeter than honey and that which distills from the honeycomb…”, referring to the value and meaning that his message has for the human race.

Designated as the most famous book in the world, with the largest number of reproductions and even the best-seller, the Bible is considered a true literary work at the same time as a fundamental document for the Christian world, a source of knowledge and spirituality, a guide and company for those who practice faith in God, and even of those who do not subscribe to any religion.

Undoubtedly, the Bible has transcended history, overcoming prohibitions or persecution, and there it is, together with believers and not so much, to bring relief to its readers, motivation and promote love in the world.