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Top 10 Best Bible Dictionaries

top bible dictionaries

A Bible dictionary is a helpful tool that illuminates your study by defining words and cultural ideas. Because the Bible you read is a translation, there are words, phrases, and concepts that need more context and definition. If you want to improve your understanding of the Bible, a dictionary is a fantastic place to start, and the Olive Tree Bible App enhances your experience even further with the Resource Guide. Here are 10 of the best Bible dictionaries (in no particular order)!

1. Zondervan Illustrated Bible Dictionary

Zondervan Illustrated Bible Dictionary

Bring the world of the Bible to life with the Zondervan Illustrated Bible Dictionary. With over 7,200 entries, 500 four-color photographs, charts, and illustrations, and 75 four-color maps, this is the perfect tool to satisfy your curiosity and dig deeper into the Word.

Get this dictionary by itself or access it through the NIV Bible Study Pack.

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2. Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary

Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary

If you’re looking for the best word study dictionary, get a copy of Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary. It’s got thousands of entries and a helpful topical index.

See how this tool works in the app.

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3. Anchor Bible Dictionary

The Anchor Bible Dictionary

The Anchor Bible Dictionary is a mainstay for biblical scholars, pastors, and advanced studiers. It’s one of the most extensive dictionaries out there, with comprehensive entries and articles.

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4. Theological Dictionary of the Old and New Testaments

This 27-volume set contains the Theological Dictionaries of the Old Testament (TDOT) and New Testament (TDNT).

Constructed by expert theologians and academics from around the globe, this substantial tool brings meaning from the general to the specific, using biblical and extra-biblical resources to build understanding.

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5. Mounce’s Complete Expository Dictionary

Mounce's Complete Expository Dictionary

Mounce’s Complete Expository Dictionary is a comprehensive tool covering the entire Bible. It uses the GK numbering system for Greek and Hebrew words.

Want to learn more about it? Look inside!

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6. IVP Dictionary Series

The IVP Dictionary Series earned an eight-way tie for #6. Perfect for preachers, casual studiers, and question-askers.

Articles cover topics including cross-sectional themes, interpretation methods, significant historical or cultural background, much more.

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7. New Interpreter’s Dictionary of the Bible

New Interpreter's Dictionary of the Bible

New Interpreter’s Dictionary of the Bible is an extremely helpful resource for studying the Bible in-depth. Whether you are using your mobile, tablet, or laptop, you can have quick access to historical, biblical insights.

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8. Eerdman’s Dictionary of the Bible

Eerdman's Dictionary of the Bible

Eerdman’s Dictionary of the Bible is a great place to start if you’re looking for background information or articles. It’s a practical and affordable option for students at all levels of study.

Like other, lengthier resources, this dictionary explores and interprets important focuses of biblical theology, text and transmission, Near Eastern archaeology, extrabiblical writings, and pertinent ecclesiastical traditions all within a single volume.

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9. New Bible Dictionary

The New Bible Dictionary is considered to be an essential reference work. This one-volume dictionary contains up-to-date entries on terms, place names, books, people and doctrine.

Get this dictionary by itself or access it through the ESV Bible Study Pack.

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10. New International Dictionary of Theology and Exegesis

NIDOTTE NIDNTTE

The New International Dictionary of (OT/NT) Theology & Exegesis is a masterpiece dedicated to illuminating the reader on both existing concepts and on treating the Bible with the care it deserves.

Want to learn more? Read this quick how-to article!

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LEAVE A COMMENT:
What’s your dictionary of choice?

Honorable Mentions

It’s hard to limit ourselves to just 10 of our favorite dictionaries, so here are some other great ones.

Want to see what else is out there? Check out our full selection of Bible dictionaries available on the Olive Tree App.

SHOP ALL BIBLE DICTIONARIES

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3 Comments

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