The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia combines the defining function of a dictionary with an encyclopedia's comprehensive presentation of accurate, dependable information. Summarizing the state of knowledge on more than 9,000 topics and including 3,500 cross-references, ISBE contains articles on every person and place mentioned in the Bible, every word in the Bible that has significant theological or ethical meaning, and all terminology that touches on the transmission and interpretation of the Bible. ISBE is based on the Revised Standard Version, making it readily accessible to a wide range of readers. More than 1,485 photographs, including 138 color plates, enhance the text of this encyclopedia, and 342 maps give an accurate and attractive presentation of relevant geographical features. These special features make ISBE a convenient, dependable, easy-to-use reference tool: Alphabetically arranged entries are fully cross-referenced to related articles. Each entry provides a maxiumum amount of information in compact form, including pronunciation, etymology, and variant renderings. The original Hebrew, Aramaic, or Greek words are transliterated, aiding those with limited or no knowledge of the original languages of the Bible. Major articles are subdivided, with a helpful outline provided at the beginning of the entry.