-Another Method
Hand copying scripture is simply writing passages by hand word for word. Why would you do this when you probably own a number of copies of the Bible and can even easily access Scripture digitally? The purpose of hand copying Scripture is not to have another copy of the Bible. Instead, this form of Scripture engagement offers you the unique opportunity to slow down the process of reading and experience a more reflective engagement with God’s Word.
It is so easy to read the Bible quickly and forget what was read within a few minutes. Hand copying helps combat quick, surface-level reading. The goal of Scripture engagement is to meet God in his Word, and this method of Scripture engagement—writing the Bible out by hand—gives you more time to think about what is written and to dwell on the meaning and implications of a passage. Hand copying is a focusing activity. Main points:
- Purpose & Benefits: Hand copying Scripture is not about creating another copy of the Bible but about engaging deeply with God’s Word, allowing for a slower, more reflective reading experience.
- Combating Quick Reading: Writing Scripture by hand prevents rushed reading and encourages meditation on its meaning and implications.
- Memory Aid: The physical act of writing helps with memorization and recall of Bible verses and passages.
- Noticing Details: Hand copying draws attention to repeated words and phrases, enhancing comprehension.
- Historical Tradition: For centuries, scribes and monks hand-copied Scripture, developing deep knowledge and devotion.
- Biblical Precedent: God commanded Israel’s kings to hand-copy the law (Deuteronomy 17:18-20) to ensure reverence, obedience, humility, and success.
- Spiritual Discipline: This practice remains a valuable method for any Christian to engage with Scripture and grow spiritually.
Hand Copying Scripture Practice Tips
- Choose a specific notebook that will be dedicated to your hand copying.
- Many people like to have a special pen used only for their hand copying.
- Find a quiet place that allows you to focus on what you’re writing.
- Identify a passage or a book of the Bible that you would like to interact with or spend time memorizing.
- Start small, with just a few verses, so you don’t get overwhelmed.
- Once you have the hang of it, try writing out a whole book of the Bible instead of isolated sections, especially of narrative-style books. This will help you view the book as a whole, understanding its complete message in context. Don’t try writing out the whole book in one sitting. Just do a few verses at a time and continue with the process for as many days as it takes.
- Quiet your thoughts by praying for the Holy Spirit to help you focus and reveal his truth to you in the passage.
- Begin writing slowly, focusing on each word and what it means in the immediate and broader contexts.
- Take your time as you write. The goal is not to finish writing out the passage but to spend time in God’s Word and spend time with God. Savor the process of looking closely at every word.
- Along with your hand copying, consider keeping notes about what you’re learning, prayer requests, and/or questions you might have.
Hand Copying Scripture Resources
- 7 Benefits of Hand Copying Scripture that Improve Your Spiritual Life by Michael Christian
Christian gives a concise case for the importance of hand copying Scripture. He explains how this method of engaging Scripture is a way of expressing our love to God and improves our minds. This is a solid resource to encourage you to start this practice. - Handwriting the Bible by Dr. Dillon Burroughs
Dr. Burroughs provides his personal experience with hand copying Scripture and shares the experiences of others who do it across the world. He also gives practical steps toward making this a consistent practice. This is a great article to read for those who are starters in hand copying Scripture. - Hand Copying God’s Word
This blog post is very helpful for the beginner of hand copying Scripture. The blogger provides tips for how to start small by copying verses and chapters and then moving on to copying whole books. It also gives a link to purchase a Scripture hand copying schedule that you can follow as well.Scripture Copying by Sharon Warkentin Short
What makes this source helpful and distinct is that Short gleaned over the various articles and blog posts on hand copying Scripture and summarized the main ideas she gathered from her study. Short then goes on to share how she personally practices this discipline and provides a multitude of resources she either referenced or studied. - Transcribing the Entire Bible: Pen and Paper Recommendations
This article gives suggestions for the best materials on the market to use for the art of copying Scripture. This is a valuable resource for those who find it to be necessary to use high quality materials for this way of engaging with Scripture.
