American Bible Reading Statistics Reveal Who Is Studying The Good Book And Why

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http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/03/14/american-bible-reading_n_4949993.html?utm_hp_ref=religion

Posted: 03/14/2014 8:43 am EDT Updated: 03/14/2014 8:59 am EDT

The number of people in America who do not identify with any religion may be at an all-time high, but the Bible still holds an important place in the lives of many Americans, a new report suggests.

According to a study, “The Bible in American Life," conducted by the Center for the Study of Religion and American Culture, 50% of Americans read some form of scripture in the past year, and 48% of those read the Bible. Four in 5 read it at least once a month, and 9% of Americans say they read the Bible daily.



According to the General Social Survey, the report says, nearly eight in ten Americans regard the Bible as either the literal word of God or as inspired by God. Fifty percent of those who have not read the Bible still believe it to be the "divinely inspired Word of God," which is even higher -- by 4 percentage points -- than those who do read the Bible.

When asked why they read the Bible, respondents named the number one reason as being personal prayer and devotion. Many also said they read the Bible to learn more about their religion -- over 78% of Americans identify as Christian, according to Pew Research. Some also read the Bible in search of guidance in personal decisions and improving relationships.



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