Catholic vs. Protestant Bible: books and differences

The book counts, side by side

The main difference in the contents is in the Old Testament. The table uses the usual counts for Catholic and most Protestant editions. An edition may also include an additional section called the Apocrypha; check its own table of contents. [1]

Which seven books are in the Catholic Old Testament?

The seven books are Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch, 1 Maccabees, and 2 Maccabees. Catholic editions also contain passages in Esther and Daniel that are absent from most Protestant editions. Sirach may be labeled Ecclesiasticus in an older translation.

These are called deuterocanonical books. Catholics receive them as Scripture. The Catechism gives the Church’s complete list of biblical books, so you can compare an edition against that list rather than relying on its cover alone. [2]

A canon and a translation answer different questions

The canon is the list of books recognized as Scripture. A translation is a rendering of the text into a language you can read. When choosing a Bible, check both: which books are included, and which translation the edition uses.

Two editions can include the same books while using different English wording, introductions, or notes. The US bishops recommend a Catholic edition for Catholic reading and explain how introductions and notes help readers understand context. Check the publisher’s information to identify the exact edition. [3]

How to check the Bible you already have

Use this short inspection before buying another copy or choosing a digital reader. It gives you enough information to ask a parish Bible-study leader whether the edition suits the group.

1. Open the contents page and look for the seven books listed above.
2. Read the title page for the translation and edition name.
3. Check whether any additional books appear in a separate Apocrypha section.
4. Read the introduction to see how the publisher presents notes and additional material.
5. Ask which edition your parish uses if you want to follow a particular study together.

Where should a Catholic beginner start reading?

You can start with a Gospel without first resolving every historical question about the canon. The beginner’s Catholic Bible reading plan gives you a short route through Mark, with passages you can return to.

If you are reading ahead for Mass, use the guide to the daily Mass readings to understand how the Lectionary differs from reading a whole biblical book in order. For personal prayer, the lectio divina guide offers a slower approach to a short passage.

Common questions about Catholic Bibles