What is justly described as the Holy Bible may be considered as of universal significance, and it is a tribute to the growing understanding of men that this book has been more widely distributed than any other volume. Among English-speaking readers it is best known in the Authorized, or King James, Version, first published in 1611 and reflecting the stately beauty of the language of the Elizabethan age. Many more recent English translations of this incomparable book show the eagerness of scholars and laymen alike to gain all possible insight into its meaning.
What gives the Bible such a universal appeal when discerningly studied by people of all races, nationalities, or creeds? What is its purpose? What are its results? Such questions cannot be answered readily or completely, but certain basic points are apparent. The Bible's teachings of moral and spiritual values have found their way into governments and courts; they have transformed the lives of much of mankind from ways of primitiveness and paganism to those of Christian societies.
Above all, the Bible is a book about God, as shown by its first words given in our common version, "In the beginning God . . ." (Gen. 1:1). While some passages may seem to have little relation to this fundamental subject, God is repeatedly set forth as the Father, the Maker and creator, the Ruler of man and the universe and the supreme Lawgiver. Not only is God all these, but He also remains the unfailing inspiration and theme of the entire Bible, which has brought to light the worth and dignity of individual man.
