All the Masters have admonished us to be clear and correct in our thinking. It is just as unbalanced for a metaphysician, humanist, or agnostic to believe the Bible is simply metaphorical – supporting male dominance – as it is for a Christian to believe each word must be interpreted literally. Clear spiritual thinking requires an understanding of what the Bible is – and isn't. So, how did this collection of laws, songs, poems, narratives, and letters get declared sacred and called the Holy Bible?

In an easy-to-read format, the author makes the case that our human nature has always had a strong desire for simplistic religious beliefs – a desire to know that one is right. This quells doubt and, as such, is fear-based. This inclination had its beginnings in the Old Testament, led to abuses in Israel's Temple-State system, and influenced the documents that were eventually included and excluded from the New Testament. These same fear-based beliefs dominate many churches and faiths today.

The reader will understand how and why this occurred and will understand the intent of the original, historic messages of the prophets and Jesus.

As Lee Carroll (Indigo Children; the Kryon Series) stated: "This is a book for the rest of us: non-scholars who would love to know the whole story behind the Holy Bible. Hang on – because some things are not as you thought. It's pure spiritual history. O'Dell's work provides a wonderfully respectful perspective on the best selling book on earth."

"I teach Bible courses at Unity Institute. I have placed your book…on the recommended reading list for all students of these courses." Rev. EJ Niles, Unity Village, MO.

"How The Bible Became The Bible potentially forms a bridge of understanding between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It can break down barriers that need not exist and shed light on the source texts that bring peace, understanding, enlightenment, and freedom." Dr. James J. DeFrancisco, PhD, Miltha Ministries (a ministry of Aramaic Studies), Mishawaka, IN.

"Mr. O'Dell has done insightful research to explain simply the pure intent of this greatly misunderstood book and how it came to be….I highly endorse and recommend [his] exciting new work." Dr. Tom Costa, Minister Emeritus and founder, Palm Desert, CA Church of Religious Science and author, Life: You Wanna Make Something of It?

"Donald O'Dell has woven an interesting tapestry of research, scholarship, and personal experience into this examination of the authenticity of biblical entries. While the references O'Dell uses are reliable and thorough, the beauty of this book is its readability.... This examination is really an open-minded exploration of whether morality is inextricably tied to biblical tenets that came directly from the the font of God." New Age Retailer magazine, Gift 2007 Issue [MORE]

Now, you may be wondering, “Why would I want to read a book about the Bible?” The book will help you think through the question: What do I believe about the Bible? In fact readers have commented that between Hezbollah, Islamic terrorists, conservative nationalistic Israelis, and fundamentalist Christians – all using their scriptures to proclaim themselves to be right – to understand what the Bible is – and isn't! – is a very relevant issue right now. Additionally, in light of the Discovery Channel's recent TV special on the Tomb of Jesus, the book's treatment (pp 141-143) of the empty grave is quite eye-opening.

Now is the time for our light to shine in a manner that is clear, correct, and balanced.