Skip to Main Content

Theology--MTS & MA in Theology

Basic search tips and strategies for graduate theology students

Biblical Research

Using & Understanding Bible Tools

Dugan Library has many Bible tools to help students to delve deeper in their study and understanding of the Holy Bible.

This is a list of the most commonly used Bible tools and their purpose:

  • Bible Atlas: Collection of maps and explanations showing places mentioned in the Bible; may also touch on history and significance of locations.
  • Bible Dictionary or Encyclopedia: Explains the origin, meaning, and use of key words and terms in the text
  • Concordance: Index to the Bible.  Lists all of the words of the text alphabetically with references for where they appear, along with a few of the surrounding words to provide context.
  • Commentaries: Explains and interprets sections of the Bible; defines words; provides background information

Multiple copies and versions are available for in-library use in the Reference section as well as available for check-out from the stacks on the second floor of Dugan Library.

Search within ATLA by Scripture Passage

Directions:

1. Navigate to the ATLA Religion Database from the link provided, or from the Dugan Library homepage (Dugan Library > A-Z Databases > ATLA)

2. In the ATLA Database, select Advanced Search in the top right-hand corner of the search field.

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Under Subjects, select ATLA Scripture Search from the dropdown menu. Type the scripture book you are looking for in the search queue, or select the scripture needed from the list provided. 

4. Once the scripture you are needing is selected, click Add to Search to generate a search string element.

5. Now the scripture has been added to your search string. Add in the rest of your search (title passage, scripture chapter, etc.) and click Search.