How to Cite Bible MLA
Citing the Bible in MLA format is an essential skill for anyone writing academic papers, especially in the fields of religion, theology, and biblical studies. Proper citation not only gives credit to the original source but also helps readers locate the specific verses being referenced. In this article, we will discuss the correct MLA format for citing the Bible, including how to format the book title, verse reference, and other relevant information.
Formatting the Book Title
When citing the Bible in MLA format, the book title should be written in italics. This is a key difference from how book titles are typically formatted in MLA. For example, instead of writing “The Gospel According to Matthew,” you would write “The Gospel According to Matthew.” This rule applies to all books of the Bible, including the Old and New Testaments.
Citing Individual Verses
To cite an individual verse in MLA format, you need to include the book, chapter, and verse numbers. For example, if you are referencing the first verse of the Gospel of Matthew, you would write “Matthew 1:1.” In cases where the verse number is unknown, use a hyphen to indicate the range of verses. For example, “Matthew 1:1-5” would refer to verses 1 through 5 in the first chapter of Matthew.
Formatting the Verse Reference
When citing a verse in MLA format, you should use parentheses to enclose the verse reference. Place the verse reference at the end of the sentence or after a direct quote. For example:
– “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1).
– According to Matthew, Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39).
Formatting the Entire Book
If you are citing an entire book from the Bible, you can simply include the book title in italics at the end of your sentence or after a direct quote. For example:
– “The Book of Revelation is a book of prophecy” (Revelation).
Using a Translation
When citing the Bible, it is important to specify the translation you are using. This helps readers understand the context of the verse and the version of the Bible you are referencing. For example, “The New International Version (NIV)” or “The King James Version (KJV).”
Conclusion
Properly citing the Bible in MLA format is crucial for academic integrity and ensuring that readers can easily locate the sources you have referenced. By following these guidelines, you can effectively cite the Bible in your MLA papers and contribute to the ongoing scholarly conversation in your field.
