Catholics use a Bible that contains 73 books—46 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament. This canon includes seven deuterocanonical books (Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach/Ecclesiasticus, Baruch, and 1 & 2 Maccabees) plus additional sections in Esther and Daniel that are not found in most Protestant Bibles. Modern English translations commonly used by Catholics include the New American Bible Revised Edition (NABRE), the Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSV-CE), and others approved for liturgical or personal use.
Key Takeaways
- The Catholic Bible follows the longer Old Testament canon rooted in the Septuagint tradition.
- Seven deuterocanonical books and certain additions are fully part of Catholic Scripture.
- Official translations vary by country and purpose (liturgy, study, or personal reading).
- The Church affirms the inspiration of all 73 books while encouraging careful, contextual study.
- Understanding the Catholic canon helps readers appreciate both shared Christian heritage and distinct tradition.
The Full Canon Catholics Receive as Sacred Scripture
Catholic teaching holds that the books of the Bible are inspired by the Holy Spirit and form a unified revelation of God’s plan of salvation. The list of books accepted as canonical was gradually recognized through the early centuries of the Church and formally reaffirmed at the Council of Trent in the 16th century. This recognition did not create the canon; it confirmed what had been widely used in liturgy and teaching.
The 27 New Testament books are shared with all major Christian traditions. The difference lies in the Old Testament, where Catholics include the deuterocanonical works that were part of the Greek Septuagint used by many Jews and early Christians.
How the Deuterocanonical Books Became Part of Catholic Scripture
In the centuries before Christ, many Jewish communities outside Judea used the Greek Septuagint translation of the Hebrew Scriptures. This collection contained additional writings that later became known as the deuterocanonical books. Early Christians, including the authors of the New Testament, frequently quoted from or alluded to the Septuagint.
By the late fourth century, local councils such as those at Hippo (393) and Carthage (397) listed the longer canon. When the Protestant Reformation later adopted a shorter list based primarily on the Hebrew Masoretic Text, the Catholic Church responded at Trent by solemnly affirming the traditional longer canon already in liturgical use.
Official Translations Approved for Catholic Use
The Catholic Church does not mandate a single English translation worldwide. Instead, bishops’ conferences approve versions suitable for liturgy, study, and personal devotion.
In the United States the New American Bible Revised Edition (NABRE) is the translation used in the Lectionary for Mass. The Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSV-CE or RSV-2CE) is widely preferred for serious study because of its formal equivalence and literary quality. Other respected options include the New Jerusalem Bible, the Good News Translation Catholic Edition, and the English Standard Version Catholic Edition in some regions.
From Jerome’s Vulgate to Contemporary English Editions
For over a thousand years the Latin Vulgate, translated largely by St. Jerome, served as the standard Bible of the Western Church. After the Second Vatican Council the Church encouraged accurate vernacular translations so that the faithful could more readily encounter Scripture in their own languages. Modern Catholic editions are prepared with attention to the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts while remaining faithful to the Church’s understanding of the canon.
Clear Differences Between Catholic and Protestant Bibles
The most visible difference is the presence of the seven deuterocanonical books and the longer forms of Esther and Daniel. Protestant Bibles typically contain 66 books; Catholic Bibles contain 73. Beyond the number of books, the ordering of certain Old Testament writings also differs slightly. Both traditions, however, share the entire New Testament and the great majority of the Old Testament narrative, poetry, and prophecy.
What the Church Teaches About the Nature of Scripture
The Second Vatican Council’s Dei Verbum teaches that Sacred Scripture is the word of God written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. God is the primary author; human writers are true authors who used their own gifts and styles. Scripture is to be read within the living Tradition of the Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, so that the faithful may hear God’s voice with clarity and confidence.
Scripture Verses That Reveal the Power and Purpose of God’s Word
The Bible itself speaks of its own value and authority. These passages help Catholics understand why careful reading of the full canon matters.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 states, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Written by the Apostle Paul near the end of his life, this verse affirms the divine origin and practical usefulness of the sacred writings. For Catholics it applies to the entire canon received by the Church. The practical application is clear: regular engagement with Scripture equips believers for faithful living. The life lesson is that God’s word is not merely informative; it forms character and prepares us for service.
Hebrews 4:12 declares, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” The unknown author of Hebrews presents Scripture as living and discerning. In historical context this encouraged early Christians facing hardship. Theologically it shows that God’s word exposes and heals. Practically, readers are invited to approach the text with openness, allowing it to examine motives. The key lesson is that Scripture is a living encounter, not a static document.
Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” This longest psalm is an extended meditation on the Torah. In its original setting it expressed devotion to God’s instruction. For Catholics today it encourages daily reliance on Scripture for guidance. The application is to begin or end the day with a short passage, asking the Holy Spirit for light. The lesson is that God’s word provides practical direction for ordinary decisions.
The Role of the Magisterium in Guarding the Text
The Church’s teaching office does not stand above Scripture but serves it by authenticating the list of inspired books and ensuring that translations remain faithful. Approval of a Bible edition for Catholic use involves review for doctrinal accuracy and suitability for the faithful. This process protects against both addition and omission while encouraging the widest possible access to the word of God.
Popular Catholic Bible Editions for Different Needs
For daily Mass readings and parish study the NABRE is standard in many English-speaking countries. For deeper personal study many prefer the RSV-2CE because of its balance of accuracy and readability. Families often choose editions with helpful notes, maps, and cross-references. Youth and new Catholics may begin with more accessible translations that still contain the full canon. The best choice is the one that will actually be opened and prayerfully read.
Common Misconceptions About the Catholic Bible
One frequent misunderstanding is that Catholics added books at the Council of Trent. In reality the longer canon was already in widespread use; Trent defended the traditional list against calls to shorten it. Another misconception is that Catholic Bibles are somehow less focused on Christ. In truth the Church reads the entire canon christologically. A third is that only one translation is “the” Catholic Bible. Multiple approved versions exist so that the word of God can reach people in varied circumstances.
How Catholics Encounter Scripture in Worship and Daily Life
At every Mass the Church proclaims readings from both Testaments, drawn from the full canon. The homily breaks open the word so that it can take root. Outside the liturgy, Catholics are encouraged to practice lectio divina—slow, prayerful reading that moves from the text to meditation, prayer, and contemplation. Many also use the daily readings from the Lectionary as a simple structure for personal devotion.
Practical Steps for Choosing and Using a Catholic Bible
- Confirm the edition contains the full 73-book canon.
- Decide whether you need a study edition with notes or a simpler text for prayer.
- Look for a translation approved by a national bishops’ conference.
- Begin with a short daily portion rather than ambitious plans that fade.
- Read in the context of the Church’s liturgy and teaching so that interpretation remains balanced.
- Keep a simple journal of verses that speak to current circumstances.
- Share insights with a trusted friend or small group for mutual encouragement.
Table: Catholic Bible Features at a Glance
| Feature | Catholic Practice | Practical Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Number of books | 73 | Includes deuterocanonical writings |
| Old Testament basis | Septuagint tradition | Longer historical and wisdom literature |
| Common U.S. liturgical text | New American Bible Revised Edition | Used in Mass readings |
| Preferred study edition | RSV Catholic Edition | Formal accuracy with readable English |
| Authority for the canon | Apostolic Tradition + Church councils | Stability across centuries |
Reflection and Prayer Prompts
- Which book of the Catholic Bible have I never read carefully?
- How does knowing the longer canon affect my understanding of God’s ongoing work among His people?
- In what area of life do I most need the “lamp” of God’s word right now?
Prayer prompt: Lord, open my heart to receive every word You have given through Your Church. Teach me to love the full Scriptures and to meet Jesus Christ in their pages. Amen.
FAQs
What Bible do Catholics use in church?
In many English-speaking countries the readings at Mass come from the New American Bible Revised Edition or a locally approved equivalent that contains the full Catholic canon.Why do Catholic Bibles have more books?
Catholics accept the deuterocanonical books that were part of the Septuagint tradition used by early Christians and affirmed by the Church’s historic liturgy and councils.Is the New American Bible the only Catholic translation?
No. Multiple translations are approved. The NABRE is common for liturgy in the United States; the RSV-CE is popular for study; other editions serve different pastoral needs.Do Catholics believe the deuterocanonical books are inspired?
Yes. The Catholic Church teaches that these books are part of the inspired word of God, equal in authority to the rest of the canon.Can a Protestant Bible be used by a Catholic?
A Protestant Bible lacks the deuterocanonical books. For complete Catholic reading and study a full-canon edition is preferred, though shared books remain valuable.What is the difference between deuterocanonical and apocryphal?
Catholics call these books deuterocanonical (second canon) to indicate they are fully inspired. Many Protestants call them apocryphal, meaning non-canonical.How should a Catholic begin reading the Bible?
Start with the daily Mass readings, a Gospel, or the Psalms. Use an approved Catholic edition and read within the living Tradition of the Church.Does the Catholic Church discourage personal Bible reading?
No. The Church strongly encourages the faithful to read, meditate on, and pray with Scripture regularly, always in harmony with authentic interpretation.Are Catholic Bible translations accurate?
Approved Catholic translations are prepared by scholars working from the original languages and reviewed for fidelity to the Church’s understanding of the text.Where can someone find a reliable Catholic Bible?
Catholic bookstores, major online retailers, and parish gift shops carry approved editions. Look for the imprimatur or bishops’ conference approval when possible.
Conclusion
The question of what Bible Catholics use ultimately points beyond lists of books and translation choices to the living God who speaks through Sacred Scripture. By receiving the full 73–book canon in carefully prepared editions, Catholics stand in continuity with the early Church’s liturgy and teaching. Whether opened at Mass, studied in a parish group, or prayed over in the quiet of early morning, this Bible is offered as a gift of God’s mercy so that every believer may hear the voice of the Good Shepherd, grow in holiness, and walk more closely with Jesus Christ each day.
