How to Quote a Bible Verse in APA
Quoting a Bible verse in APA format can be a bit tricky, especially for those who are not familiar with the guidelines. The American Psychological Association (APA) provides specific rules for citing religious texts, including the Bible. In this article, we will discuss the steps to follow when quoting a Bible verse in APA format.
1. Identify the Bible Version
Before quoting a Bible verse, it is essential to identify the version you are using. APA recommends using the full name of the version in parentheses after the verse reference. For example, if you are quoting from the New King James Version (NKJV), you would write (NKJV).
2. Use the Correct Format for the Verse Reference
When citing a Bible verse, you need to include the book, chapter, and verse numbers. APA requires the book to be written in uppercase letters, followed by the chapter and verse numbers separated by a colon. For example, John 3:16.
3. Include the Verse in Parentheses
Place the verse reference in parentheses after the quote. If the verse is a direct quote, use quotation marks around the text. For example:
> “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16, NKJV).
4. Include the Verse Reference in the In-text Citation
APA requires an in-text citation for direct quotes. Include the verse reference in parentheses after the quote, as mentioned in step 3. If you are paraphrasing the verse, you do not need to use quotation marks, but you still need to include the in-text citation.
5. Include the Bible Version in the Reference List
APA requires a reference list at the end of your document. When citing the Bible, include the version name, the book, chapter, and verse numbers, and the publisher. For example:
> New King James Version. (1982). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson.
6. Example of Quoting a Bible Verse in APA Format
Here is an example of how to quote a Bible verse in APA format:
> “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11, NKJV).
By following these steps, you can ensure that you are quoting a Bible verse correctly in APA format. Remember to always check the latest APA guidelines for any updates or changes to the citation format.
