The 66 BOOKS OF THE BIBLE: EVERY BOOK IN ORDER (WITH SUMMARIES!)

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on this page belong to the author and do not necessarily match my own. - Dr. Bart D. Ehrman

Navigating the 66 books of the Bible can be a complex endeavor, but doing so offers an illuminating insight into its timeless narratives. From the early tales of creation in Genesis to the prophetic apocalypse in Revelation, each book serves as a unique piece in the grand mosaic of biblical literature.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll journey through each of these books in chronological order. To aid in your exploration, we've prepared a table that showcases the traditional authorship, dates of composition, and key verses for every book. And for those desiring a deeper dive, a concise summary of each book will further enrich your understanding. Join us on this enlightening trek through one of the world's most revered collections of sacred writings.

The Old Testament Books

This is the end of the Old Testament, sometimes referred to as the Hebrew Bible.  While there are 66 books in the Bible, there are 39 in the Old Testament.  Now let's cover the 27 books in the New Testament.

THE NEW TESTAMENT

Same as for the Old Testament, we've got the 27 books of the New Testament listed in order below.  Please scroll down for authorship, dating, summaries of the books, and more!

The Pentateuch: Authorship, Date Written, and Summaries

Summaries for the Pentateuch (Torah) - The first five books of the Bible, often referred to as "The Law"

Critical scholarship often questions the historicity of the Pentateuch, viewing figures like Moses as more mythical than historical. Our summaries focus on the narratives of these texts, presented objectively, without endorsing specific religious interpretations. 

#1 - Genesis:  Genesis, the first book of the Bible, narrates the creation of the world, the fall of human kind, and the early history of humanity, including the stories of Adam and Eve, Noah, and the Tower of Babel. It also details the patriarchal history of the Israelites, focusing on Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph, ending with the Israelites in Egypt.

#2 - Exodus:  The book of Exodus chronicles the story of Moses' leadership in freeing the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, including the Ten Plagues and the parting of the Red Sea. The book also details the journey of the Israelites to Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Ten Commandments and other laws from God. 

#3 - Leviticus:  In this third book of the Bible, the focus shifts to the laws and religious rituals given to the Israelites. It details a wide array of laws, including those related to rituals, moral conduct, and holiness, primarily communicated through Moses. The book emphasizes the importance of holiness and the procedures for offerings and festivals. 

#4 - Numbers:  Numbers recounts the Israelites' journey in the wilderness, led by Moses, from Mount Sinai to the border of Canaan. It includes a census of the people, various laws, and accounts of rebellion and faithlessness, highlighting the challenges and trials faced during their wanderings. The narrative also details God's guidance and provision for the Israelites throughout their journey.

#5 - Deuteronomy:  Deuteronomy presents itself as a collection of Moses’ discourses delivered to the Israelites on the brink of their entry into Canaan. Modern scholarship views these speeches as a retrospective compilation that emphasizes loyalty to God, centralization of worship, and social justice. This book acts as a theological bridge by underscoring the significance of obedience and communal responsibility.

The Historical Books: AUTHORSHIP, DATE WRITTEN, AND SUMMARIES

Summaries for the Historical Books - Narratives of Israel's History Post-Egypt to the Babylonian Exile

The historical books make up twelve of the 66 books of the Bible.  They begin with Joshua and end with Esther. These books, while traditionally ascribed to specific authors and considered historical accounts, are viewed critically by contemporary scholars. The historicity of various events described in these books is often debated, with many scholars questioning the accuracy and authenticity of certain narratives. Additionally, their authorship remains largely unknown. Despite these uncertainties, our summaries aim to objectively present the narrative content of these texts, without endorsing or disputing their historical or authorial claims. 

#6 - Joshua:  In this narrative, the Israelites, under the leadership of Joshua, enter and conquer the land of Canaan following Moses' death. The book details a series of military campaigns and the subsequent division of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel. It also emphasizes Joshua's role in reaffirming the covenant between the Israelites and God.

#7 - Judges:  The Book of Judges depicts a cycle of Israelite leaders, known as judges, rising and falling in a period of instability after the conquest of Canaan. The narrative portrays a pattern of Israelite disobedience to God, leading to oppression by foreign powers, followed by a judge delivering them from these oppressors. Notable figures include Deborah, Gideon, and Samson, each illustrating the challenges and moral complexities of this era. 

#8 - Ruth:  A touching narrative of loyalty and love, Ruth, a Moabite, remains devoted to her Israelite mother-in-law, Naomi, after tragedy strikes. Her eventual marriage to Boaz not only highlights the theme of redemption but also positions her in the direct lineage of King David.

#9 - 1 Samuel:  From the birth of the prophet Samuel to the tumultuous reign of Israel's first king, Saul, this book provides a look at the transition of Israel from a tribal confederation to a monarchy. It sets the stage for the rise of David, Israel's greatest king.

#10 - 2 Samuel:  This sequel continues the story of David's reign, following his anointing as king of Israel. The book details his political and military achievements, personal struggles, and moral failings, including the story of David and Bathsheba. It concludes with David's consolidation of power and preparations for the building of the Temple thus setting the stage for the transition to his son Solomon's reign. 

#11 - 1 Kings:  1 Kings chronicles the zenith and decline of Israel's united monarchy. From the glory days of Solomon's temple construction to the division of the kingdom into Israel and Judah, the narrative reveals how leaders can shape a nation's fate.

#12 - 2 Kings: With a succession of rulers, 2 Kings details the final chapters of both the northern and southern kingdoms. Despite intermittent revivals, rampant idolatry ultimately leads to Israel's exile by Assyria and Judah's devastation by Babylon.

#13 - 1 Chronicles: 1 Chronicles offers a genealogical retelling of Israel's history, with an emphasis on David's reign. It begins with a series of genealogies tracing the lineage from Adam to the Davidic line, emphasizing the continuity of God's promises. The latter part of the book details David's reign, his preparations for the construction of the Temple, and the organization of the priesthood and Levites, showcasing his role in establishing religious worship in Israel.

#14 - 2 Chronicles: Focusing on the reign of Solomon and subsequent kings of Judah, this narrative extends to the Babylonian exile. It highlights Solomon's construction of the Temple in Jerusalem and his wisdom, as well as the varying degrees of faithfulness of Judah's kings to their covenant with God. The book culminates with the Temple's destruction and the exile, presented as repercussions of the nation's unfaithfulness.

#15 - Ezra: This post-exilic book chronicles the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and their efforts to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel and the priestly guidance of Ezra. It focuses on the restoration of religious and communal life in Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of adherence to the Law of Moses. 

#16 - Nehemiah: As the walls of Jerusalem lay in ruins, Nehemiah, the cupbearer to the Persian king, takes on the daunting task of rebuilding. His leadership and the people's collaborative spirit exemplify restoration in the face of adversity.

#17 - Esther: Set in the Persian Empire, Esther, a Jewish queen, bravely intervenes to prevent the genocide of her people. With divine providence at play, the narrative celebrates the origins of the Jewish festival of Purim.

The Wisdom and Poetry Books: AUTHORSHIP, DATE WRITTEN, AND SUMMARIES

Summaries for the Wisdom and Poetry Books - Literary and poetic books, largely centered on wisdom and reflections on life

#18 - Job: The Book of Job delves into the themes of suffering and divine justice, narrating the story of Job, a righteous man whose faith is tested through extreme hardships. In this narrative, God allows Satan to test Job’s faith, resulting in a series of catastrophic events that include the heartbreaking loss of his children. The book also presents a series of dialogues between Job and his friends about the nature of suffering. The book concludes with a poetic discourse on the power and wisdom of God, underscoring the limitations of human understanding.

#19 - Psalms:  Comprising 150 songs and poems, this collection expresses a wide range of emotions and themes, from praise, worship, and thanksgiving to lament and supplication. The Psalms address the human experience of God, exploring themes like faith, suffering, and God's sovereignty. They are used extensively in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic liturgies, reflecting their enduring spiritual and cultural significance.

#20 - Proverbs:  Traditionally attributed to King Solomon, Proverbs is a compilation of wise sayings and instructions on leading a righteous life. These bite-sized pearls of wisdom touch on topics like character, relationships, and personal integrity.

#21 - Ecclesiastes:  Ecclesiastes presents a philosophical reflection on the meaning of life and the best way to live, voiced by a narrator called 'the Teacher.' It explores themes of vanity, the fleeting nature of earthly pursuits, and the limits of human wisdom, ultimately advocating for finding enjoyment in life's simple pleasures and fearing God.

#22 - Song of Solomon:  Also known as the Song of Songs, this book is a collection of lyrical poems celebrating love and romantic desire. Within Judaism, it is often interpreted allegorically as symbolizing the relationship between God and Israel, while in Christian tradition, it is seen as a metaphor for the bond between Christ and the Church. The text vividly portrays the beauty and power of love through passionate dialogues between lovers. 

The Major Prophets: AUTHORSHIP, DATE WRITTEN, AND SUMMARIES

Summaries for the Major Prophets - Larger prophetic works in the Old Testament

Critical scholars approach the major prophetic books of the Old Testament by situating them within their historical contexts, rather than interpreting them through the lens of Christian messianic prophecies. In our objective summaries, we focus on the narrative content of these texts, steering clear of anachronistic perspectives and emphasizing their original historical and cultural settings

#23 - Isaiah:  Isaiah is a composite text, traditionally attributed to the prophet Isaiah, that addresses the political and social conditions of ancient Judah. The book spans pre-exilic warnings of judgment, reflections on exile, and post-exilic themes of restoration and hope, blending oracles, narratives, and prophetic discourses. Its messages focus on themes of justice, righteousness, and the consequences of both faithfulness and rebellion against God. 

#24 - Jeremiah:  Often referred to as the "weeping prophet", the book of Jeremiah persistently warns Judah of impending doom due to their idolatry and unfaithfulness. However, amid his dire predictions, he offers hope through the promise of a "new covenant."

#25 - Lamentations:  Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah, this collection of poetic laments mourns the tragic fall of Jerusalem and the subsequent exile. The verses capture the deep sorrow, yet also contain glimmers of hope in God's enduring mercy.

#26 - Ezekiel:  Traditionally attributed to the prophet of the same name, Ezekiel combines visions, prophecies, and parables to address the exile of the Judeans in Babylon. It emphasizes themes of judgment and restoration, with vivid imagery depicting the fall of Jerusalem and the eventual promise of the nation's spiritual renewal.

#27 - Daniel:  The book of Daniel combines tales of Jewish heroism in a foreign court with apocalyptic visions, set during the Babylonian exile and early Persian period. The first half narrates stories of Daniel and his companions, who maintain their faith and integrity in the face of challenges. The latter half presents symbolic dreams and visions that offer hope for divine deliverance and the establishment of God's kingdom.

The Minor Prophets: AUTHORSHIP, DATE WRITTEN, AND SUMMARIES

Summaries for the Minor Prophets - Shorter prophetic works in the Old Testament

Scholarly analysis of the Minor Prophets in the Old Testament emphasizes understanding these texts within their original historical and cultural contexts, rather than through later interpretive lenses, such as Christian messianic expectations. In our summaries, we aim to present these books' themes and messages while maintaining an objective stance, focusing on their narrative and prophetic content as it relates to the period in which they were written.

#28 - Hosea:  Set in the turbulent final days of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, the book of Hosea combines prophecies of doom due to the people's unfaithfulness to God with promises of restoration. The book is distinguished by its symbolic use of Hosea's troubled marriage as a metaphor for the relationship between God and Israel, emphasizing themes of love, betrayal, and redemption.

#29 - Joel:  Joel, set against the backdrop of a devastating locust plague, uses this natural disaster as a metaphor for an impending day of divine judgment. The book calls for repentance and portrays a future of divine restoration and blessings, including the outpouring of God's spirit on all people. 

#30 - Amos:  In this book, prophet Amos delivers a stern message of judgment to the Northern Kingdom for its societal injustices and idolatry. Amidst the warning, there's a glimmer of hope for restoration.

#31 - Obadiah:  Traditionally attributed to Obadiah, this is the shortest book in the collection. However, many scholars disagree with that attribution. Regardless of its authorship, the text portrays Edom’s impending downfall and Israel’s eventual triumph in the “Day of the Lord”.

#32 - Jonah:  Unique among the prophetic books Jonah is a narrative about a reluctant prophet sent to warn the city of Nineveh of impending divine judgment. It explores themes of obedience, mercy, and God's compassion for all people, highlighted by Jonah's resistance to God's command and the eventual repentance of the Ninevites.

#33 - Micah:  The book of Micah delivers a message of judgment and hope, addressing the social injustices and corrupt leadership of his time. The book combines dire warnings to both Israel and Judah with promises of restoration and future leadership from Bethlehem, emphasizing the themes of justice, mercy, and humility before God.

#34 - Nahum:  Focusing on the impending downfall of Nineveh, the book of Nahum proclaims God's judgment on this oppressive Assyrian city, contrasting God's wrath and His goodness.

#35 - Habakkuk:  In a dialogue with God, Habakkuk grapples with the problem of evil and why the wicked prosper. The answer, according to Habakkuk, lies in living by faith and trusting in God's sovereign plan.

#36 - Zephaniah:  Warning of the impending "Day of the Lord," the book of Zephaniah calls for repentance. Amid the judgment pronouncements, there's the promise of joy and restoration for the faithful remnant.

#37 - Haggai:  As post-exile Israel delays rebuilding the temple, the book of Haggai reminds them of their priorities and assures them of God's presence in their midst.

#38 - Zechariah: Composed post-exile, the book of Zechariah combines visions, prophecies, and oracles to encourage the rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple and to offer hope for the restoration of Israel. The book blends apocalyptic elements with expectations of the coming of the future king who will restore peace and justice. 

#39 - Malachi:  The final book of the Old Testament prophets! It addresses issues of social justice, religious sincerity, and moral conduct in post-exilic Judah. It calls for faithfulness to God's covenant, warning of judgment while promising a future day of purification and renewal, symbolized by the coming of 'Elijah the prophet'.

This is the end of the Old Testament, sometimes referred to as the Hebrew Bible.  While there are 66 books in the Bible, there are 39 in the Old Testament.  Now let's cover the New Testament.

The Gospels: AUTHORSHIP, DATE WRITTEN, AND SUMMARIES

Summaries for the Gospels - The first four books of the New Testament, four accounts of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ

Critical scholarship acknowledges that the Gospels in the New Testament represent a blend of historical events, traditional narratives, and legendary elements, all shaped by their authors' theological perspectives. Despite the presence of discrepancies and varying emphases among these texts, it’s important to note that each Gospel focuses on Jesus’ teachings, ministry, life, death, and resurrection. Our summaries aim to present their core narratives, without asserting historical accuracy or resolving theological interpretations.

#40 - Matthew:  Written primarily for a Jewish audience, Matthew's Gospel emphasizes Jesus as the promised Messiah of the Old Testament prophecies. Throughout the narrative, the author of Matthew showcases Jesus' teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection, emphasizing the Kingdom of Heaven.

#41 - Mark:  Believed to be the earliest Gospel, Mark provides a rapid and dynamic narrative of Jesus' life, focusing on His deeds and His role as the suffering servant. The emphasis is on action and Jesus' ultimate sacrifice for humanity.

#42 - Luke:  Traditionally ascribed to Paul’s companion, Luke’s Gospel emphasizes Jesus' teachings, compassion towards the marginalized, and the role of the Holy Spirit, and is notable for its parables, such as the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son.

#43 - John:  Distinct from the Synoptic Gospels, John delves into the deeper theological aspects of Jesus' nature and identity. It focuses on His divinity, presenting Jesus as the Word made flesh, the giver of eternal life, and the source of living water.

The Book of Acts: AUTHORSHIP, DATE WRITTEN, AND SUMMARIES

Summary of the Book of Acts - The history of the early Christian church post-resurrection

Critical scholars generally agree that the Acts of the Apostles weren’t authored by Paul’s companion. Moreover, they note its theological agenda and question the historical accuracy of certain parts. Despite these considerations, our summary will focus on presenting the narrative content of Acts, reflecting its themes and progression.

#44 - Acts:  Acts of the Apostles narrates the early Christian community's development and spread, beginning with Jesus' ascension and focusing on the ministries of Peter and Paul. It describes the Pentecost, the growth of the church in Jerusalem, the conversion and missionary journeys of Paul, and his journey to Rome, emphasizing the spread of Christianity from Jerusalem to the Gentile world.

The Pauline Epistles

Summaries for the Pauline Epistles - Letters written by (or attributed to) the Apostle Paul

Of the 66 books of the Bible, tradition says that the Apostle Paul wrote 13 of them.  If true, that would mean Paul wrote approximately 20% of the books in the Bible!  There is dispute amongst scholars, however, as to how many of the books attributed to Paul were actually written by him.  We've got an excellent article about that here.

#45 - Romans:  Paul's theological masterpiece, Romans delves deep into topics like sin, justification, sanctification, and the transformative power of the Gospel. It is a comprehensive explanation of Christian doctrine and the life of faith.

#46 - 1 Corinthians:  Addressing issues in the Corinthian church, Paul tackles topics like divisions, morality, and spiritual gifts. The famous chapter on love (Chapter 13) emphasizes love's supreme importance in the Christian life.

#47 - 2 Corinthians:  A personal letter where Paul defends his apostolic authority and offers insights into his hardships for the sake of the Gospel. Themes of reconciliation and the power of Christ in weakness are central.

#48 - Galatians:  The Book of Galatians, a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Christian communities in Galatia, is a passionate and emphatic message emphasizing the importance of faith in Jesus Christ over the observance of the Jewish Law for salvation. In this letter, Paul addresses the challenge posed by certain individuals who were insisting that Gentile Christians must follow Jewish customs, including circumcision. He asserts his apostolic authority, recounts his personal journey to faith, and argues fervently that justification comes by faith, not by works of the Law. Throughout the letter, Paul encourages the Galatians to live by the Spirit, exhibiting the fruits of love, joy, peace, and other virtues, as opposed to being enslaved by the Law or engaging in behaviors reflective of their former lives. Galatians stands as a pivotal text in Christian theology, highlighting themes of grace, freedom, and the transformative power of faith in Christ.

#49 - Ephesians:  A profound exploration of the church's identity and mission, Ephesians delves into the believer's position in Christ, the importance of unity, and the armor of God.

#50 - Philippians:  Penned from prison, this letter radiates joy in Christ. Paul encourages the Philippian believers to have the mind of Christ and rejoice regardless of circumstances.

#51 - Colossians:  Traditionally attributed to Paul but regarded by many scholars as written by a later author, the Epistle to the Colossians addresses a Christian community in Colossae. It focuses on the supremacy of Christ over all principalities and powers and emphasizes the completeness of believers in Christ, countering local heresies that combined elements of paganism and Jewish traditions with Christianity.

#52 - 1 Thessalonians:  One of Paul's earliest letters, it comforts and encourages the Thessalonian believers, addressing concerns about the Second Coming of Christ.

#53 - 2 Thessalonians:  Further elaborates on Christ's return, correcting misunderstandings and urging steadfastness in the face of persecution.

#54 - 1 Timothy:  Considered by the majority of scholars to be a pseudonymous work, 1 Timothy is a pastoral epistle. It offers guidance on church organization and conduct, addressing doctrinal issues, worship practices, and leadership roles, including qualifications for bishops and deacons. 

#55 - 2 Timothy:  Written by an unknown author at the end of the 1st century, 2 Timothy is framed as a personal letter offering guidance and encouragement to a young leader, Timothy. It emphasizes perseverance in faith and sound teaching in the face of false doctrines and hardships.

#56 - Titus: An unknown author identifying himself as Paul advises Titus on church leadership and Christian living, emphasizing good works as evidence of genuine faith.

#57 - Philemon: Paul’s personal letter to Philemon, a slave owner, urging him to welcome back his runaway slave Onesimus as a brother in Christ.

The General Epistles: AUTHORSHIP, DATE WRITTEN, AND SUMMARIES

Summaries for the General Epistles - Letters written by various authors to early Christian communities

#58 - Hebrews:  This epistle presents Jesus as the ultimate revelation of God's love and mercy and is superior to all other mediators. Through deep theological exposition, the book demonstrates Christ's supremacy and His role as our high priest, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their faith.

#59 - James:  Claiming to be written by Jesus' half-brother, The Epistle of James offers practical advice on living a genuine faith. It emphasizes the necessity of works accompanying faith, the power of the tongue, and the importance of patience.

#60 - 1 Peter:  The author of 1 Peter encourages believers undergoing persecutions. He reminds them of their living hope through Christ's resurrection and calls for holy living as God's chosen people.

#61 - 2 Peter:  The author of 2 Peter warns against false teachers and the dangers of apostasy. He reaffirms the promise of Christ's return and the importance of godly living.

#62 - 1 John:  The author of 1 John writes to assure believers of their salvation and encourages them to remain faithful to the truth. The epistle emphasizes love as a hallmark of the Christian life.

#63 - 2 John:  A short letter warning against deceivers and emphasizing the commandment to love one another.

#64 - 3 John:  The author of 3 John writes in appreciation of Gaius for his faithfulness and addresses issues of hospitality in the early church.

#65 - Jude:  The author of Jude delivers an urgent call to contend for the faith against false teachers. The letter highlights God's judgment on the ungodly.

Apocalyptic: AUTHORSHIP, DATE WRITTEN, AND SUMMARIES

Summary for the Apocalyptic Book - Prophecies concerning the end times

#66 - Revelation:  Written by a certain John of Patmos, Revelation is an apocalyptic text that uses vivid imagery and symbolism to convey a vision of cosmic conflict and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It addresses the persecution of Christians and the hope of salvation, depicting the end of the world, the final judgment, and the establishment of a new heaven and earth. Revelation primarily reflects the challenges of early Christian communities under Roman rule.  

HOW MANY BOOKS ARE IN the Bible?

When asked, "How many books are in the Bible?" the answer depends on the religious tradition and which Bible we're talking about.  The "Christian" Bible is divided into the Old and New Testaments and contains 66 books, starting with Genesis and ending in Revelation.  The addition of the New Testament to the Hebrew Bible, which only consists of the Christian Old Testament, is the unique identifying feature of the Christian Bible.

The New Testament emerged in the backdrop of a divided 1st-century Judaism. To grasp its origins, we must consider the distinct circumstances that shaped early Christian literature, contrasting it with the ancient Hebrew Bible, or Torah.  The Christian Bible contains 39 Old Testament books and 27 New Testament books giving it the total of 66 books.

How Many Books Are In the Hebrew Bible?

The Old Testament, also known as the Hebrew Bible, serves as the foundation of the Jewish faith. Its writings span centuries, from the ancient prophecies of Isaiah and Amos in the 8th century B.C.E. to the later composition of the Book of Daniel in the 2nd century B.C.E.

The number of books in the Hebrew Bible can vary depending on the specific Jewish tradition or denomination. In the Jewish tradition, there are generally 24 books in the Hebrew Bible, which is also known as the Tanakh. These books are divided into three main sections:  The Torah (Law), The Nevi'im (Prophets), and The Ketuvim (Writings).

It's important to note that the arrangement and categorization of these books can differ slightly among Jewish traditions. For example, the order of the books in the Hebrew Bible may vary between Jewish denominations like Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Judaism.

The difference in number between the book of the Tanakh (24) and the Christian Old Testament (39) is largely due to the rearrangement and combining of some of the books.  For example, in the Old Testament, Kings, Chronicles, and Samuel are split into two books each.

Conclusion to the 66 Books of the Bible

In this comprehensive guide, we've journeyed through all 66 books of the Bible, unveiling the rich tapestry of stories, teachings, and revelations that have shaped countless lives and continue to inspire millions today.

From the foundational texts of Genesis in the Old Testament to the apocalyptic visions of Revelation in the New Testament, the books of the Bible offer timeless wisdom, spiritual guidance, and profound truths that resonate across the ages.