David Instone-Brewer writes fabulous “Tyndale Tech” notes from Tyndale House, Cambridge. If you use Bible Software, perhaps you’ve wanted to sit down with someone who could “give you the skinny” on how to do things. David I-B has given you exactly what you need.
Here’s the email I got this morning (get on the mailing list here):
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Dear James,
| Getting the best out of Bible software | ||
| Software is better in the areas of Biblical Studies than in almost any other discipline except computing. The free software is amazing, and the best of the commercial software is outstanding. Although ease of use is a key element in every package, getting the best out of these complex programs takes some experimenting. I’ve spent hours hunting out and summarising what each one does best, and how to do it easily, in the posts listed here. If I’ve missed your favourite tip or hidden feature, please add it to the Comments. | ||
| 1) BibleWorks for PC * best value all-in-one package |  | |
| 2) Logos for PC and now for Mac * easy-to-use Bible software including reverse interlinears |  | |
| 3) Accordance for Mac & emulated on PC * superb range of gramatically tagged texts |  | |
| 4) Other software – mostly free * More commercial software
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| 5) SESB – the Stuttgart Electronic Study Bible * The ‘official’ Greek & Hebrew OT & NT texts (BHS, NA27, UBS4) * includes the full apparatus of these texts – searchable and well linked. (this is the ONLY electronic source of these textual details) * plus Rahlf’s LXX, first vols of Quinta, basic lexicons and more * good facilities for complex morphological searches * versions available for Accordcance and Logos, which integrates with BibleWorks on PC … more details. |  | |
| My recommendation: Buy the cheaper USA version of SESB then try out the freebies. When you find that you can’t do what you want to do, find out which commercial package can do it. And, if someone keeps asking you what you want for Christmas, give them a heavy hint!
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| David Instone-Brewer (Technical Officer) | ||
Dr. Hamilton, what do you use and why?
Thank you for the helpful advice. I have considered buying Bible software and this will be helpful in making the decision!
Dr. Hamilton,
I just wanted to point out that while Dr. Instone-Brewer’s round-up was helpful, most of the content he linked to about our software was quite out of date. In fact, since he posted that review in Sept. 2009, we’ve completely re-worked our software from the ground up. We no longer use the Libronix name or system, have over 12,000 (not 2000) resources available, etc.
One of the reviews our site visitors have found most helpful was given us unsolicited from Dr. Adams from Concordia Seminary. I pass it on because it’s one of the most thorough and objective reviews I’ve personally seen from an academic-oriented user.
Just an FYI. If there’s anything I can ever do for you or any of your readers, please contact me personally at stephen.smith@logos.com
Respectfully,
Stephen Smith
Public Relations
Logos Bible Software
stephen.smith@logos.com
http://www.logos.com/press