I love this copy of the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible New Testament RSV 2e. Reviewing some three hours after delivery.
Encased in a smooth leather cover containing gilted cover art called The Four Evangelists by Christopher J. Peligrano, with an Icon of Christ, the light of the world in the middle. (The biblical reading is from John 8:12 - "I am the light of the world, he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.") Surrounded by the Man, Lion, Eagle and Ox - representing Matthew, Luke, John and Mark respectively (as alluded to in Revelation 4:7).
Maps include Jerusalem from David to Christ and The Roman Empire in New Testament times. Two ribbons are included in the leather version (the hardcover/paperbacks do not include this to my limited knowledge, according to one review). Gilt edged pages.
The book lays flat when opened to the middle, unfortunately it lacks a Smythe-sewn binding, hence cannot be easily opened at extremities. The format of the book is quite simple - the text, with appropriate subheadings above each paragraph. In the middle one finds biblical references. The excellent exegetical notes are interwoven with biblical references and references to the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
Opening the book to the extremities of either end of the book is rendered difficult due to the glued binding.
Also included is:
- Index of Biblical Doctrines
- RSV Concordance
- Numerous charts and Word studies
- Introductions to each book - each introduction discusses authorship, dates, purposes and themes
- Table of Miracles Jesus did listed in a table - indeed it cites John in mentioning that that "there are also many other things which Jesus did; were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written" (John 21:25)
N.B. Check the pictures I uploaded here, click the second link under the main image.