A review by planarlost
All That's Wrong with the Bible: Contradictions, Absurdities, and More by Jonah David Conner

5.0

"All That's Wrong With the Bible" by Jonah David Conner is a thoughtful exploration of the Bible's contradictions, absurdities, and other textual problems. Drawing from his background in Biblical studies and his experience as an ex-Christian fundamentalist, Conner offers a compelling case against the notion of biblical inerrancy.

The book meticulously points out instances where different parts of the Bible disagree. Names, numbers, genealogies, even the wording of the Ten Commandments, come under scrutiny. Conner's detailed analysis raises questions about the consistency and accuracy of the Bible.

Not shying away from the morally problematic aspects of the Bible, Conner sheds light on passages that condone polygamy, slavery, genocide, and the killing of innocent children (including the unborn, potentially a moral quandary for modern believers). Instances where the Bible justifies the killing of gay people and the live burning of prostitutes receive particular attention.

Conner scrutinizes prophecies in the Bible that appear vague, non-specific, and even back-dated. Comparisons of language used across different translations demonstrate the questionable nature of these prophecies.

Problems of translation and scribal errors receive due attention as well. The author acknowledges the multiple translations the Bible has undergone, which may have led to mistakes and intentional changes by scribes. Comparisons between original documents and later translations shine a light on such alterations. (This exploration of translations invokes a pertinent argument often made by certain theologians; some claim that skeptics cannot critique the Bible unless they have read its books in their original languages. A possible response from a skeptic could be: how can one believe in the translations if they are not sufficient to be criticized?)

Despite its provocative title and the potential for controversy, Conner invites readers to be open-minded, to further explore the subject matter, and to challenge his arguments. His expertise and commitment to critical analysis provide a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the complexities of the Bible, believers and unbelievers alike. Those of faith may find this book a catalyst for deeper intellectual engagement with their beliefs.

Overall, "All That's Wrong With the Bible" seems to be a well-researched and scholarly analysis of the Bible's flaws. It serves as a necessary contribution to Biblical studies, encouraging readers to question, examine, and understand the text more deeply.