Dictionary of Biblical Imagery

by Leland Ryken (Editor), James C. Wilhoit (Editor), Tremper Longman III (Editor)

Every reader of the Bible has encountered the powerful, comforting and sometimes puzzling imagery of Scripture. These concrete pictures with their hidden force have struck sharp and lasting impressions on our minds. Their imprint has etched itself on the language and grammar of Christian faith and Western culture. Why then do traditional Bible dictionaries and reference works offer so little help to explorers of the Bible's galaxy of verbal pictures? They excel in describing the climate, borders and location of Galilee or Sinai. But they are often blind to the artistic expressions and deaf to the musical meanings that echo from within the world of the biblical text. The Dictionary of Biblical Imagery is the first contemporary reference work dedicated to exploring the images, symbols, motifs, metaphors and literary patterns found in the Bible. More than that, it examines the Bible's universal archetypes or master images--including the plot motifs and character types that recur throughout life, literature and the Bible. This unique dictionary explores the dazzling variety in which the Word of God comes dressed in clothes of everyday life. It traces the trail of images from Eden to the New Jerusalem. It captures the plotted patterns of biblical narrative. It surveys the imaged texture of each book of the Bible. In short, The Dictionary of Biblical Imagery is an inviting, enlightening and indispensable companion to the reading, study, contemplation and enjoyment of the Bible.

Genres: Reference, Theology, Christian, Religion, Biblical Studies, Christianity, Books About Books

1058 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 1998

About the author

Dr. Ryken has served on the faculty of Wheaton College since 1968. He has published over thirty books and more than one hundred articles and essays, devoting much of his scholarship to Bible translations and the study of the Bible as literature. He served as Literary Chairman for the English Standard Version (ESV) of the Bible and in 2003 received the distinguished Gutenberg Award for his contributions to education, writing, and the understanding of the Bible.

He is the father of Philip Graham Ryken

Reviews

[Sylvester (Taking a break in 2023) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obviously I haven't read this cover to cover. But I refer to it so much, and it is a resource of such interest and excellence, I wanted make note of it.

[Jen H · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute must have in the library of any serious Bible scholar or aspiring Christian author. A weighty tome (over 1000 pages if you include the index), it explores in detail the "images, symbols, motifs, metaphors, figures of speech and literary patterns of the Bible." Excellent book. Great for kindling the fires of the imagination!

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hands down, one of the best damn references ever. This dictionary traces biblical imagery throughout old and new testament and is clear on when the mean of the imagery might change in varying contexts. Jesus would use this dictionary.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a WONDERFUL reference guide, I have enjoyed if for more the 7 years. It's resourceful interesting insight into deeper perspectives of reflection/contemplation that adds a rich flavor of depth into aspects and symbols that may seem simple or easy to overlook.

I was raised as a young child with family members reading tarot cards, horoscopes and seeing them go to fortune tellers, and have always been aware of deeper narratives. After hearing teachings summarizing the difference between witchcraft and its origins, by Biblical scholars/teachers whom are balanced and gifted in dream interpretation, and operating in the gifts of the Spirit of God. I have become very aware of the distinct contrast, yet also recognize, our generation is hungry for the supernatural aspects of God.

As a Christian I enjoy healthy balance and insight that makes the gifts of the Spirit, Biblical dream interpretation and adds further mystery into the poetic and mysterious contemplations of the Bible and God/Christ.

[Joanne Lincoln · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valuable addition to Bible Study

I previously had this in hardback. By using the book I was able to better understand the not only the more prophetic teachings but it also helped better understand how The Word applies today. By having a better understanding of the objects and times of Biblical times it brought more understanding and revelation.

[Tyna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have not read every word of this Dictionary but it is so awesome I am going to input my two cents worth on Goodreads.
My copy was picked up from Ebay and it is well loved. I'm sure an awesome Sunday School teacher must have been using it. There's lots of shaky red underlining and I feel this person was a kindred spirit--hoorah for nerds!!

As for myself, I have been enjoying this book for several months now. I truly pick up this book and enjoy an entry once a week or so.

I have had several encounters with Ryken and Longman's work. I seek out their names! Thank you to you both!

[Michael Harshman · Rating 5 out of 5]

IVP Academic's "Dictionary of Biblical Imagery" really is a unique find and such a valuable resource. It was in the Book of the Year list from Christianity Today in 1999. It is not your typical Bible dictionary that covers more of the basics of what specific places, people or things are about. Instead, this information-packed book goes into more of the behind the scenes part of Scriptures and looks at the images, metaphors, figures of speech, literary patterns and symbolism used in the Word of God. If you are someone who has any interest in studying the Scriptures in addition to reading them, then I would classify this book as a must have. Keep in mind, this will not replace the typical Bible Dictionary that you need, however, this will supplement it so nicely. Highly recommended! This one is yet another IVP book that I will reference quite often in my personal library. I received a copy of this book in exchange for this review from IVP and all opinions are my own.

[Charles Carter · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a tremendously valuable reference resource. This isn't the sort of book to sit down and simply peruse, but it is an excellent book to keep near your desk to pull out and review as you study.

[Bob Flores · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing gift. Great as a biblical dictionary but better than that for me is the help it is to me in my forming word pictures. I have many books on the symbols and types of the bible, but this kind of rounds them all out. An invaluable resource in my study and what has been a huge part of my gifting, which is biblical imagery. Big book, great resource and well worth it!

[Shep · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent reference tool to help Bible readers gets started on exploring the rich themes, symbols, motifs, and images of the Bible. I even enjoy cracking it open and reading a random entry now and then.

[Andy]

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[Rebecca Romaneski · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is such a cool reference book; i use it when i write poetry. you can look up a word/topic and it will list all Biblical references along with the history and imagery.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

Useful book when I remember to get it down off the shelf. Some good comments on the use of the word yoke.