#REVIEW: The A to Z Guide to Bible Signs and Symbols by Neil Wilson and Nancy Ryken Taylor

Title: The A to Z Guide to Bible Signs and Symbols

Series: none

Author:  Neil Wilson and Nancy Ryken Taylor

Published Date: February 17, 2015

Publisher: Baker Books

Format: paperback

Pages: 288

ISBN: 9780801014796

Genre: Biblical study

Add to: Goodreads

Purchase: Amazon | Baker Publishing Company

Rating: 4 stars

Synopsis: How might our understanding of God's Word be deepened if we recognized the significance of the signs and symbols found within its pages--signs that would have been obvious to the original readers? From the tree of life to Noah's ark, from circumcision to animal sacrifice. From the feasts, the Passover lamb, and the manna in the wilderness to the furniture in the tabernacle and the visions of prophets. From the Lord's Supper to baptism and from the cross to the empty tomb.

Throughout the Scriptures, signs and symbols weave a consistent message of God's presence, grace, and faithfulness. This illustrated resource will help readers understand key biblical images that reveal God's purposes and truth. Each entry includes multiple illustrations, explanations, and key Bible passages. Sidebars, quotes, and photos make this guide approachable and engaging.

My Review: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher.

The book itself is gorgeous. Each Biblical symbol that is explained has two pages devoted to it with beautiful full color photographs on it. The authors take the time to explain the symbol as it is presented in its various contexts in the Bible, then follows up with a key verse from the Bible.

Some symbols are combined with others (e.g. mountain and hill, eagle and vulture) where the original language translated can be construed either way depending on the context. Other symbols were left out, ones that I was looking for clarification on especially. I found the symbols and signs in the book that were presented were pretty comprehensive, at least for a lay person. This would be a book that you could refer to if you get stumped over why this particular symbol is used. However, the book is not presented as comprehensive nor authoritative. I find it to be a great jump-off point, and I would love to see a book further down the line with more signs and symbols of the Bible.

Overall, this is a beautiful book to add to your Biblical library, but it definitely shouldn’t be the only book in your library that you refer to for Biblical signs and symbols.