The Complete Ethiopian Bible in English - Illustrated

In this review the reviewer examines The Complete Ethiopian Bible in English, an illustrated edition that restores the full 88-book canon long preserved by the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. The bottom line: this edition is for readers and students who want the broadest, most faithful English access to early Christian scripture, including the Book of Enoch, Jubilees, and other extracanonical works not normally found in Western Bibles. Its clear English translation and explanatory material make it a unique resource for study, spiritual reflection, and historical inquiry.

Key Features

• Complete canon: Presents all 88 books recognized by the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, giving readers the fullest view of that tradition's scriptures.
• Included apocrypha and extracanonical texts: Contains texts such as the Book of Enoch, Jubilees, and additional lost books, expanding the historical and theological context for study.
• Illustrated edition: Includes illustrations that support visual engagement with the texts and help readers connect with the material culture of the tradition.
• Clear English translation: Rendered in accessible English so lay readers and scholars alike can follow complex material without specialized language barriers.
• Introductory notes and context: Provides introductory material and notes that situate the texts, which aids study and academic use.

Who It's For

This edition is aimed at serious Bible students, scholars of early Christianity, and spiritually curious readers who want access to the broader corpus of canonical and extracanonical works preserved in the Ethiopian tradition. Those conducting comparative religion study or preparing academic commentary will find the expanded content and notes particularly valuable.

Readers seeking a short devotional read or a compact, pared-down Bible for daily carry might find this volume larger and denser than necessary; it is best suited to study, reference, and in-depth reading rather than casual devotional use.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comprehensive content brings together canonical and often-missing apocryphal books for an unusually wide scriptural collection.
• Readable English translation improves accessibility for modern readers unfamiliar with the original languages.
• Illustrations and notes add educational value and help explain historical and theological context.

Cons

• The volume's scope and density may be overwhelming for readers seeking a brief devotional text.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Complete Ethiopian Bible in English is a valuable edition for anyone who wants comprehensive access to the Ethiopian Orthodox canon and the many extracanonical texts that illuminate early Christianity. Its clear translation, illustrations, and contextual notes make it good value for students, researchers, and committed readers who need a single volume that restores those lost or missing books to English readers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this edition include the Book of Enoch?
Yes. The edition explicitly includes the Book of Enoch along with other apocryphal and extracanonical works.

Is this a modern English translation?
Yes. The text is presented in clear English aimed at accessibility for contemporary readers and students.

Who published this edition?
The book is published by Solomon's Gate Press and is presented as a study and reference edition.