With key features such as single column paragraph format (unique for a KJV edition), a nice black-letter 8.75 Lexicon Number 1 digital font, opaque India paper, references and translation notes on the outside margin, Smyth-sewn, and the perfect handy size (5x7x1.5), the Clarion is sure to be a staple in Bible publishing for many years to come. However, the KJV Clarion, with its many standard features, has one new feature worth taking a special look at.

Rather than a standard concordance, the KJV Clarion has a Reader’s Companion which serves as a concordance and dictionary. The Reader’s Companion is 144 pages and includes 7 major features.

  1. The most significant proper names. Names include people, places, tribes, etc., along with a short description or explanation, and a list of the most prominent verses.
  2. Definitions for words that have changed meaning. Also includes references to verses.
  3. Background of life including: animal and plant-life, and information about people including customs, occupations, and artifacts. Also includes references to prominent verses on the topics covered.
  4. Brief information on social, legal, ethical, and religious concepts in the Bible with a list of references.
  5. A short introduction to every book in the Bible. Information on literary forms, original languages, and related non-biblical ancient texts.
  6. History and features of the KJV (Authorized Version) and other related Bible translations.
  7. Key words with references to verses. These are especially useful for locating Biblical quotations.

 

 

 

There are just as many verses in the Reader’s Companion that you would find in a regular concordance, but where a concordance gives you a portion of the verse, the Reader’s Companion only gives a list of verses. Without the portion of the verse, it might be a little difficult to find the specific verse you’re looking for. However, the Reader’s Companion has so much more information in it that it becomes a topical Bible study tool, which is better than simply a way to search for specific verses.

The Clarion from Cambridge is a winner all the way around. From its new layout with side-column references, digital typeset, paragraph format, excellent binding, fine choice of leather covers, Cambridge maps, 2 ribbons, and perfect carrying size of 5x7x1.5, and the addition of the new Reader’s Companion, the Clarion has plenty to love and appreciate. There is a lot of information in the Reader’s Companion, making it a welcome addition to your Bible study toolset.

 

Baker Publishing provided this Bible free for this review. I was not required to give a positive review- only an honest review.