Biblical Theology Bulletin

Scope & Guideline

Navigating the Rich Tapestry of Biblical Interpretation

Introduction

Explore the comprehensive scope of Biblical Theology Bulletin through our detailed guidelines, including its aims and scope. Stay updated with trending and emerging topics, and delve into declining areas to understand shifts in academic interest. Our guidelines also showcase highly cited topics, featuring influential research making a significant impact. Additionally, discover the latest published papers and those with high citation counts, offering a snapshot of current scholarly conversations. Use these guidelines to explore Biblical Theology Bulletin in depth and align your research initiatives with current academic trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0146-1079
PublisherSAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1973 to 2024
AbbreviationBIBLIC THEOL BULL / Biblic. Theol. Bull.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address1 OLIVERS YARD, 55 CITY ROAD, LONDON EC1Y 1SP, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Biblical Theology Bulletin serves to explore the intersections of biblical texts with contemporary issues, methodologies, and societal concerns. Its aims are rooted in an interdisciplinary approach, aiming to enrich theological discourse through diverse perspectives.
  1. Interdisciplinary Approaches to Biblical Texts:
    The journal emphasizes the integration of various fields such as psychology, sociology, and gender studies into biblical interpretation, thereby encouraging a multifaceted understanding of scripture.
  2. Social Justice and Ethical Reflections:
    A consistent focus on themes of social justice, race, gender, and sexuality is evident, promoting discussions on how biblical narratives can inform contemporary ethical issues.
  3. Engagement with Modern Theological Debates:
    The journal actively participates in ongoing theological debates, particularly concerning the relevance of biblical texts in modern contexts, including discussions on apocalyptic literature and its implications for contemporary faith.
  4. Historical and Cultural Contextualization:
    A significant aim is to contextualize biblical narratives within their historical and cultural frameworks, allowing for a deeper understanding of their meanings and applications today.
  5. Exploration of Marginalized Voices:
    The journal prioritizes the exploration of marginalized voices in biblical texts, focusing on feminist, queer, and postcolonial interpretations that challenge traditional readings.
The journal has been responsive to evolving scholarly interests, with several themes emerging as particularly significant in recent years. The following areas illustrate the journal's current trajectory and focus.
  1. Queer and Feminist Theologies:
    There is a marked increase in publications exploring queer and feminist perspectives on biblical texts, indicating a growing commitment to inclusivity and the examination of marginalized identities within scripture.
  2. Disability Studies in Biblical Interpretation:
    Recent themes highlight the intersection of disability studies with biblical texts, reflecting an emerging interest in understanding how narratives of disability inform theological discourse and vice versa.
  3. Trauma and Healing in Scripture:
    The exploration of trauma and its implications for biblical interpretation has gained traction, with a focus on how biblical narratives can provide insights for healing and resilience in contemporary contexts.
  4. Politics and Biblical Interpretation:
    A trend towards examining the political dimensions of biblical texts is evident, with scholars increasingly analyzing how scriptural narratives engage with issues of power, governance, and social justice.
  5. Environmental Theology:
    There is a growing interest in environmental themes within biblical texts, reflecting a broader societal concern for ecological issues and the role of scripture in addressing such challenges.

Declining or Waning

While the journal has seen growth in several areas, certain themes appear to be waning in prominence. The following topics have been observed to receive less focus in recent publications.
  1. Traditional Historical Criticism:
    There seems to be a decline in the focus on traditional historical-critical methods, as the journal increasingly favors contemporary and sociocultural approaches to biblical interpretation.
  2. Literal Interpretations of Scripture:
    There is a noticeable reduction in papers advocating for literal interpretations of biblical texts, as the journal shifts towards metaphorical and contextual readings that resonate with modern issues.
  3. Focus on Ancient Near Eastern Contexts:
    While still present, the emphasis on detailed analyses of ancient Near Eastern contexts appears to be less prominent compared to the growing interest in modern implications and applications of biblical texts.
  4. Static Gender Roles in Biblical Narratives:
    Discussions centered around rigid gender roles in biblical narratives have diminished, reflecting a broader shift towards fluid and intersectional gender analyses.
  5. Apologetic Theology:
    The journal has moved away from apologetic approaches that defend traditional doctrines, opting instead for critical examinations that question established beliefs in the light of contemporary challenges.

Similar Journals

Currents in Biblical Research

Illuminating the Texts, Transforming Understanding
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 1476-993XFrequency: 3 issues/year

Currents in Biblical Research is a leading academic journal dedicated to the exploration and critical analysis of biblical texts, traditions, and interpretations. Published by SAGE Publications Ltd, this journal aims to foster a deeper understanding of the biblical literature while integrating contemporary perspectives from various fields including theology, history, and literary studies. With an ISSN of 1476-993X and an E-ISSN of 1745-5200, it serves as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students engaged in biblical scholarship. While it does not currently offer Open Access, the journal upholds a rigorous peer-review process to ensure the dissemination of high-quality research. Located in London, EC1Y 1SP, England, Currents in Biblical Research continues to impact the academic community, providing a platform for innovative ideas and contributing substantially to the discourse in biblical studies.

Revista Biblica

Fostering Interdisciplinary Dialogue on Scripture
Publisher: Asociacion Biblica ArgentinaISSN: 0034-7078Frequency: 4 issues/year

Revista Biblica is a distinguished journal published by the Asociación Bíblica Argentina, focusing on the interdisciplinary study of biblical texts, theology, and the historical context of the Scriptures. Established to foster scholarly discourse, this journal serves as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students committed to advancing their understanding of biblical literature and its relevance in contemporary society. Although it does not currently offer an open access model, the journal is dedicated to providing high-quality peer-reviewed articles that elevate biblical scholarship. With its ongoing commitment to the academic study of sacred texts, Revista Biblica plays a significant role in nurturing critical thought and dialogue within the field of theology and religious studies.

Biblical Interpretation-A Journal of Contemporary Approaches

Bridging Tradition and Modernity in Religious Studies
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 0927-2569Frequency: 5 issues/year

Biblical Interpretation: A Journal of Contemporary Approaches is a prestigious academic journal published by BRILL, based in the Netherlands. With an ISSN of 0927-2569 and E-ISSN 1568-5152, this journal has emerged as a significant platform for scholarly discourse in the field of Religious Studies, particularly focusing on contemporary methodologies in biblical interpretation. Ranked in the Q2 category with an impressive 59th percentile status in the Scopus Ranks, it serves as a critical resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal has been in publication since 1988, offering insights that bridge historical texts with modern interpretative practices, thus fostering richer understandings of biblical literature. Although not open access, its rigorous peer-review process ensures that the articles published uphold the highest academic standards, making it an essential addition to any serious scholar's library.

Review & Expositor

Bridging academic research and practical application in theology.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0034-6373Frequency: 4 issues/year

Review & Expositor is a leading academic journal published by SAGE Publications Inc, dedicated to advancing the field of biblical studies and theology. With an emphasis on rigorous scholarship and critical analysis, this journal serves as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike, offering peer-reviewed articles that explore contemporary issues and historical perspectives within the Christian tradition. Though not currently an open access publication, its content is accessible through various academic platforms, making it an essential addition to theological libraries and personal collections. The journal aims to foster dialogue within the community and enhance understanding of scriptural texts, providing insights that bridge academic research with practical application. With its commitment to quality and impact, Review & Expositor continues to uphold its reputation as a significant contributor to the discourse on faith, Scripture, and ethics in modern society.

INTERPRETATION-A JOURNAL OF BIBLE AND THEOLOGY

Transforming the landscape of biblical interpretation.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0020-9643Frequency: 4 issues/year

INTERPRETATION: A JOURNAL OF BIBLE AND THEOLOGY is a premier academic journal published by SAGE Publications Inc, dedicated to advancing the scholarship in the fields of Bible and theological studies. With an ISSN of 0020-9643 and an E-ISSN of 2159-340X, this journal has established itself as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike, particularly noted for its high ranking in the 2023 category quartiles as Q1 in Religious Studies. The journal consistently ranks #101 out of 644 in Scopus, highlighting its significant impact and wide-reaching influence within the academic community. Since its inception, spanning converged years from 1965 to 1966, 1998, and currently from 2002 to 2024, it has presented a wealth of innovative research, critical reviews, and theological discourse. Although it operates under a subscription model, the depth and rigor of published articles make it an indispensable platform for those engaging seriously with theological inquiry. The journal is headquartered in Thousand Oaks, California, and continues to serve as a cornerstone for deepening understanding and scholarship in religious studies.

JOURNAL OF BIBLICAL LITERATURE

Illuminating Biblical Texts Through Literary Insight.
Publisher: SOC BIBLICAL LITERATUREISSN: 0021-9231Frequency: 4 issues/year

The JOURNAL OF BIBLICAL LITERATURE, published by the Société Biblique de Littérature, is a premier academic platform dedicated to the interdisciplinary exploration of biblical texts through the lenses of literature and religious studies. With impressive Scopus rankings—placing it in the top 5% of journals in both Literature and Literary Theory as well as Religious Studies—the journal exemplifies quality and rigor in its scholarship. Despite its lack of open-access options, it is highly regarded for its contributions to scholarly discourse, aiming to enrich understanding of biblical literature within both historical and contemporary contexts. The journal operates within the elite Q1 quartile, underscoring its significance in the field and making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. Conveniently based in the United States, at 825 Houston Mill Rd, Suite 350, Atlanta, GA 30329, the journal is poised to continue impacting the scholarly landscape leading into its converged years from 2002 to 2024.

Biblical Annals

Bridging Global Perspectives on Biblical Traditions
Publisher: JOHN PAUL II CATHOLIC UNIV LUBLINISSN: 2083-2222Frequency: 4 issues/year

Biblical Annals is an esteemed peer-reviewed journal published by the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, specializing in the field of Religious Studies. With a significant impact factor and an impressive Q1 ranking in the 2023 quartiles, this journal has established itself as a leading platform for scholarly discourse and research. Since its transition to Open Access in 2011, it has broadened its reach and accessibility, allowing researchers and academics to engage with its rich content without barriers. The journal's focus encompasses critical analysis, interdisciplinary studies, and contemporary issues relating to biblical texts and traditions, making it a vital resource for students, professionals, and researchers alike. Located in Lublin, Poland, Biblical Annals serves as a bridge connecting global perspectives on faith, culture, and spirituality, fostering an ongoing dialogue that enriches the understanding of religious phenomena.

REVUE BIBLIQUE

Exploring the Intersection of Faith and History
Publisher: PEETERSISSN: 0035-0907Frequency: 4 issues/year

REVUE BIBLIQUE is a prestigious scholarly journal published by PEETERS, renowned for its contributions to the fields of Archaeology, History, and Religious Studies. Based in France and accessible internationally, this journal has been a vital resource for researchers and scholars since its inception, showcasing a commitment to high-quality academic discourse. Recognized within the Q1 and Q2 quartiles for various categories in the 2023 rankings, REVUE BIBLIQUE highlights critical examinations of historical contexts and religious texts, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and innovation in the humanities. Although it operates under traditional subscription models, the journal’s rigorous peer-review process and comprehensive thematic coverage make it an indispensable tool for advancing knowledge in its domains. Scholars looking to delve into the complexities of faith, history, and cultural heritage will find REVUE BIBLIQUE an essential addition to their research arsenal.

JOURNAL OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES

Exploring the depths of theological inquiry.
Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PRESSISSN: 0022-5185Frequency: 2 issues/year

Welcome to the Journal of Theological Studies, a premier academic journal published by Oxford University Press since its inception in 1899. This esteemed publication is dedicated to advancing the field of religious studies, providing a platform for scholarly dialogue and research across a broad range of theological topics. With a notable Q2 ranking in the 2023 category of Religious Studies and a Scopus rank of 215/644, the journal occupies a commendable position in the academic community, reaching the 66th percentile. Although currently not offering Open Access options, the journal ensures that its content is rigorously peer-reviewed and accessible to researchers, professionals, and students alike. Covering significant historical spans and converging diverse theological discussions, the Journal of Theological Studies remains vital for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the complexities of faith, doctrine, and religious practice.

Horizons in Biblical Theology

Unveiling New Perspectives in Biblical Theology
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 0195-9085Frequency: 2 issues/year

Horizons in Biblical Theology is a distinguished academic journal published by BRILL, specializing in the field of Religious Studies. Established in the Netherlands, this journal has served as a vital platform for scholarly discourse since its inception, with a publication history that spans from the late 20th century to the present day, contributing to ongoing debates and advancements in biblical scholarship. Although Horizons in Biblical Theology is categorized in the Q4 quartile based on the 2023 evaluation, it holds a significant standing in the Scopus ranking, positioned at #392 out of 644 journals in its category, showcasing its relevance within the academic community. Researchers, students, and professionals are encouraged to explore its comprehensive articles that address both historical and contemporary theological issues, enriching their understanding of biblical texts and interpretations. While not an open-access journal, it offers vital insights that make it a crucial resource for anyone engaged in the study of biblical theology.