As part of the Zondervan blogger program, I have received a copy of the Zondervan Amplified “Journal the Word” Bible published by Zondervan Bibles/Harper Collins Publishers at no cost to me in exchange for an honest review here on the Adonai Shalom USA blog. #zondervanpartner
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Amplified Journal the Word Bible Book Review & Description
The Zondervan Amplified Journal the Word Bible uses the popular Amplified translation of the Biblical text. This particular edition allows ample space so that those who enjoy taking notes in the margins or even drawing and doodling can have room to truly personalize their copy of the Holy Scriptures.
The Amplified version is nice because this translation inserts notes to help define key words and phrases in Scripture that are otherwise misunderstood or overlooked due to difficulties in transition from the original Greek, Aramaic, and Hebrew. The brackets and parentheses help to ensure that none of these notes are mistaken as actual Scripture, which is critical because Revelation 22:18 sternly warns us to never add to the actual Scriptures. The purpose of the Amplified Bible is to add understanding, not to add erroneous text, and I believe it fulfills its mission in a helpful way for those wanting to delve deeper into the original meaning of the text.
From the back cover book jacket: “The Amplified Bible translation delivers enhanced understanding of the rich nuances and shades of meaning of the original Greek and Hebrew words in Scripture. Using a unique system of brackets, parentheses, and italics, the Amplified Bible defines and expands key words and phrases within the text of Scripture. In this way, the fuller meaning of God’s Word unfolds, verse by verse, as you read.”
I immediately noticed the beautiful Leathersoft (TM) cover. The size of this Bible is perfect for personal devotionals.
It features two satin ribbon bookmarks and it lays flat when open, which is ideal for serious notetakers!
Zondervan Bibles
The Zondervan Amplified Journal the Word Bible uses 9.5-point font which is very readable. Zondervan Bibles are always of the highest quality and you will not be disappointed with this Bible.
A Bible for Personal Study
The Zondervan Amplified Journal the Word Bible is excellent for personal study. It is not; however, a “study Bible” in that this Bible does not contain notes, commentary, concordances, nor maps. The Amplified translation intends for the reader to gather insights from the amplified text which does contain elements that could be considered commentary. Immediately following the ending of the New Testament in Revelation, there are additional pages for personal notes.
The Zondervan Amplified Journal the Word Bible does contain an “Explanation of General Format” to help those unfamiliar with the Amplified version to understand how the features work within the text:
I personally enjoy anything that helps to further explain the original meanings, so I like the Amplified Version. The only thing I could suggest to make this particular Journal the Word Bible even better would be if there were further textual commentary included on each page.
My recommendation:
★★★★★
Rating: 5 out of 5.
The Zondervan Amplified Journal the Word Bible deserves a 5 out of 5.
This high-quality Amplified version of the Bible is suitable for anyone who enjoys writing notes or drawing in the margins of their personal devotional Bible. It would make a wonderful gift for the artists and creative people in your life who love God’s Word!
Rev. Jennifer Mieliulis Fuentes, M.Div., Duke University
Book details
Title: Amplified Journal the Word Bible
Publisher: Zondervan
Release Date: February 2024
Genre: BIBLES/The Amplified Bible/Journaling
ISBN-13: 978-0-310-46362-7
Thanks for this! I’ve always appreciated the Amplified Bible. Looking into this one for myself!
The Amplified Bible definitely has its place as very useful resource to consult! I’m glad this review was helpful to you!
I appreciate this! I’ve been reading from the AMP for the past few years and have really enjoyed it! I just started a new plan with a translation I’ve never used, NLT, but I’m keeping this AMP version on my radar for the future! I always appreciate your insights, friend!
It can be so richly rewarding to read different translations. I love that you are doing an NLT study. Maybe the AMP will be your next one!