How to Properly Cite the Bible in MLA Format- A Comprehensive Guide_6
How to Cite Bible in MLA
Citing the Bible in MLA format can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the specific guidelines. However, with a few simple steps, you can easily include Bible verses in your MLA paper. In this article, we will discuss the proper way to cite the Bible in MLA format, including how to format the in-text citation and the Works Cited page.
Formatting the In-Text Citation
When citing the Bible in your paper, you need to include the book, chapter, and verse number. The format for in-text citations is as follows:
– Book, Chapter:Verse
– Example: Genesis 1:1
If you’re citing a passage that spans multiple verses, you can use a hyphen to indicate the range:
– Book, Chapter:Verse-Verse
– Example: Genesis 1:1-3
It’s important to note that you should not include the book’s full name or any other information in the in-text citation. Only the book’s abbreviation, chapter, and verse number are necessary.
Formatting the Works Cited Entry
In the Works Cited page, you’ll need to include the full title of the Bible and the version you’re using. The format for the Works Cited entry is as follows:
– Bible version. Title. Translated by [translator’s name, if applicable]. Publisher, Year of publication.
– Example: King James Version. The Holy Bible. Oxford University Press, 2011.
If you’re using a specific translation, include the translator’s name in the entry. If the translation is the standard version for your field, you may omit the translator’s name.
Example of a Complete Cited Passage
Let’s say you want to cite a passage from the Book of Genesis in your MLA paper. Here’s how you would format the in-text citation and the Works Cited entry:
In-text citation:
– Genesis 1:1
Works Cited entry:
– King James Version. The Holy Bible. Oxford University Press, 2011.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you’re properly citing the Bible in MLA format. Remember to always double-check the specific requirements of your instructor or publication to ensure that you’re adhering to the correct citation style.
