3:16 Bible Texts Illuminated

About This Book

Donald E. Knuth, noted scientist and award-winning author, culminates a life-long interest in Bible study, typography, and art with 3:16 Bible Texts Illuminated. This book is a marriage of profound biblical insights and exquisite calligraphy -- a treat for the mind, the eyes, and the spirit. We are going to study 59 verses of the Bible, starting with Genesis 3:16 and ending with Revelation 3:16. Dr. Knuth knew that a large collection of information can be understood reasonably well by selecting random portions of data and studying them in depth. He decided to apply this principle to Bible study, believing that it might be an efficient and effective way to increase biblical understanding. Because of the great popularity of John 3:16, known to millions of people by its number, he focused on chapter 3, verse 16 of each book. The text found in position 3:16 of most books in the Bible is a typical verse with no special distinction. But when Knuth examined what leading scholars throughout the centuries have written about those verses, he found that there is a fascinating story to be learned in every case, full of historical and spiritual insights. Even "ordinary" Bible verses turn out to be extraordinary. He also decided that a book about the Bible should be beautiful. So he and the twentieth century's leading designer of typefaces, Hermann Zapf, commissioned 60 illustrations from outstanding calligraphers in 26 different countries. Zapf also helped to design the book and the cover typography. The result is a grand tour of the Bible with reflections by one of the great scientific minds of our time. - Back cover.