how long would it take to read the whole bible

2 min read 05-02-2025

how long would it take to read the whole bible

The Bible, a collection of religious texts considered sacred by Jews and Christians, is a substantial body of work. Many people wonder: just how long would it take to read it cover-to-cover? The answer, as you'll see, depends on several factors.

Factors Affecting Bible Reading Time

Several variables influence the time required to read the entire Bible:

1. Reading Speed: The Foundation

Your individual reading speed is paramount. A fast reader will naturally finish quicker than someone who reads more slowly. Consider your average words-per-minute (WPM) rate. Are you a speed reader, or do you prefer a more leisurely pace?

2. Bible Version: Length Variations

Different Bible translations vary slightly in length due to differing interpretations and word choices. Some translations are more concise than others. The New International Version (NIV) is a popular choice, but King James Version (KJV) and others exist.

3. Daily Reading Time Commitment

How much time can you realistically dedicate to reading each day? Reading 10 chapters daily is significantly faster than just one. Consistency is key! A dedicated schedule increases your chances of success.

4. Comprehension and Reflection

Do you plan to simply read, or will you also take time for reflection and prayer? Incorporating thoughtful pauses slows the reading process, yet it can dramatically enrich your understanding.

Estimating Reading Time: A Practical Approach

Let's use the NIV translation as a benchmark and make some reasonable assumptions:

Average Word Count: The NIV Bible contains approximately 780,000 words.
Average Reading Speed: Let's assume an average reading speed of 250 words per minute (WPM). This is a moderate pace; adjust accordingly based on your own speed.
Daily Reading Time: If you dedicate 30 minutes a day, that's 7,500 words per week or 30,000 words per month.

Calculation:

780,000 words / 250 words/minute = 3120 minutes
3120 minutes / 60 minutes/hour = 52 hours
52 hours / 30 minutes/day = ~1.73 days or 1.73 years

Therefore, at a moderate reading speed of 250 words per minute and a commitment of 30 minutes daily, it would take approximately one year to read the whole Bible. However, with more or less time and reading pace, the time naturally changes.

Different Approaches to Reading the Bible

Chronological Order: Several Bible reading plans arrange the books chronologically, offering a different perspective on the narrative flow.
Themed Readings: Focus on specific themes like love, forgiveness, or prophecy to enrich your engagement.
Devotional Readings: Short, daily readings can be a more manageable approach for consistency.

Conclusion: The Journey Matters More Than the Time

While calculating the time to read the Bible gives a tangible goal, remember the journey matters more than the destination. Consistent engagement with scripture is more significant than rushing to finish it. Choosing a reading plan that suits your lifestyle and focusing on understanding and applying the teachings will make the experience far more rewarding.