The Bible is a book, or rather the book above all others, to which we feel that we need no introduction. It is found lying everywhere; we all know of it; and still more have so many of its phrases and personalities in our everyday talk, that we can be quite surprised to find they are ‘from the and begin to wonder just how much we do take from it.

But perhaps it is unfortunate that we have no introduction; for the Bible is not only well known and quoted, as Shakespeare's works are among English-speaking people; but has a special place in our minds, unlike any other book. It is venerated, or ridiculed; held up, for respect or derision; and it has that position because of what is said about it. The Bible, it is said, is the Word of God.