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.
- 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.
- Definitions for words that have changed meaning. Also includes references to verses.
- 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.
- Brief information on social, legal, ethical, and religious concepts in the Bible with a list of references.
- A short introduction to every book in the Bible. Information on literary forms, original languages, and related non-biblical ancient texts.
- History and features of the KJV (Authorized Version) and other related Bible translations.
- 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.
