How to Cite a Bible in MLA
The MLA (Modern Language Association) citation style is widely used in the humanities and social sciences. When citing religious texts, such as the Bible, it is important to follow the proper guidelines to ensure accuracy and consistency. In this article, we will discuss how to cite a Bible in MLA format, including the various components required for a complete citation.
General Guidelines for Citing the Bible in MLA
When citing the Bible in MLA format, it is essential to include the following elements:
1. Title: The title of the Bible should be written in italics, followed by a period.
2. Version: The version of the Bible should be stated in parentheses after the title, followed by a period.
3. Book, Chapter, and Verse: The book, chapter, and verse numbers should be listed in parentheses, separated by commas.
4. Page Number (if applicable): If you are referencing a specific page number, include it after the verse number, separated by a comma.
Example of a Complete Citation
Here is an example of how to cite a Bible passage in MLA format:
(King James Version) Genesis 1:1.
This citation indicates that the verse being referenced is from the first chapter of Genesis in the King James Version of the Bible.
Citing the Bible in the Text
When referencing the Bible in the text of your paper, you can use a parenthetical citation. The format for a parenthetical citation is as follows:
(Verse number)
For example:
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth (Gen. 1:1).
Citing the Bible in Footnotes or Endnotes
If you prefer to use footnotes or endnotes for your citations, the format is similar to that of the parenthetical citation. Here is an example:
Footnote/Endnote: (Gen. 1:1)
This format ensures that readers can easily locate the specific verse being referenced.
Formatting the Title and Version
When formatting the title and version of the Bible in MLA, follow these guidelines:
1. The title should be written in italics.
2. The version should be written in parentheses immediately following the title, separated by a space.
For example:
(King James Version)
Remember to capitalize the first letter of each major word in the title of the Bible.
Conclusion
Citing the Bible in MLA format is an essential skill for anyone working in the humanities and social sciences. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and consistent. Always double-check the specific requirements of your institution or publisher to ensure compliance with their citation style preferences.
