The Dictionary of Bible Places (QuickNotes Commentaries)

Pamela L. McQuade
Barbour Books (2010)
ISBN 9781602608467
Reviewed by Chad Feight for Reader Views (09/10)

 

I recently received a copy of “The Dictionary of Bible Places” by Pamela L. McQuade from Reader Views.  The book is basically a quick guide to all of the locations mentioned in the Bible.  The book gives the name of the place (from the King James Version) followed by the number of times it is mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments, the meaning of the name if it is known, as well as a brief description of the significance of that place.  Also included are some basic timelines of kings and kingdoms as well as a few maps at the end.

I received this book expecting a dry, but informative dictionary.  What I found was a rich, albeit concise, guide to all of the locations in the Bible.  I actually found myself just flipping through the pages and reading about places I never realized I had heard of. 

I also found value in sermon preparation.  I speak to middle-school students each week and am constantly looking for more information and depth for my messages.  I don’t necessarily want a lot of dry information to give to the students, but I like to have some depth and new ideas to teach which is appreciated by older crowds that I speak to on occasion.

Apart from just using the book for sermons, though, I enjoyed knowing a little more about the places mentioned.  Often times in the Bible, where something happened or the name of a location have as much significance of what actually happened there.  Also, bringing reality to my reading of the Bible adds to the depth of my personal time searching the scriptures.

If there is a drawback to this book, for me, it was that the names were taken from the King James Version.  Although McQuade mentioned the NIV translation of places where applicable, I would have personally preferred them referenced that way.  This is a minor flaw in my mind and would be a benefit to those who still prefer the King James Bible.

Overall, I found “The Dictionary of Bible Places” to be more than just useful, but enjoyable as well and a great addition to any Christian’s library, especially those who are looking for a deeper understanding of the Bible and want to add value to their reading.

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