One could make a serious case that the Bible is the most influential book in the western world. Yet the Jewish and Christian Bibles are distinct, as are Catholic and Protestant Bibles. In truth, each of these religion's collection of sacred scripture is really a library rather than a single book. Further, each tradition reads its sacred texts through a unique lens.   This comprehensive introduction to the various collections of biblical literature used by Jews, Catholics, and Protestants gives the beginner clear, concise, and engaging entries into each book of the Bible, covering major controversies. The authors also show how various biblical books have influenced and continue to have an impact upon western ethics, politics, and of course religion. Opening with a series of brief chapters that draw the reader into the world of the Bible and biblical scholarship, and utilizing artistic renderings and charts, this book is student friendly but communicates a depth of learning in a responsible and balanced fashion.