Friday, May 2, 2025

Illuminated Bible ~ Art Journaling Edition a Crossway Review



The ESV Illuminated™ Bible, Art Journaling Edition from Crossway is a beautiful Bible featuring cream colored paper, a ribbon marker, art gilding, smyth sewn binding, and elegant TruTone and leather covers designed to last. Dana Taanamachi is the artist responsible for the striking artwork found throughout the Bible. Taanamachi illustrates the front, back, and spine of the Bible. Bible books begin with a full-page illustration by the artist. A wide margin has been incorporated into this Bible to allow users to write notes and draw pictures.

Detailed here is the scene from Psalm 42, where the image of a deer panting for water points to the innate human longing for the living water of our saving God. 


Over 500 elegantly hand-lettered gold-ink illustrations adorn this Bible with the entire ESV text. The use of gold-ink adds a luxurious and timeless quality to the illustrations, making the Bible a treasured keepsake. Gold has historically symbolized value and divinity, enhancing the spiritual significance of the text. This choice of material not only elevates the aesthetic appeal but also highlights the importance of the scripture it accompanies. 




The hyssop plant flowers, spear, thorns, nails, and palm branches reveal the end of Jesus' earthly ministry. During the triumphal entry, he rode into Jerusalem on a donkey while onlookers waved palm branches and cried out "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" (12:13) When Jesus was nailed to the cross, a crown of thorns was placed on his head, and he was offered a drink on the end of a hyssop branch; as a fulfillment of prophecy, he was pierced with a spear in his side. 


An Index of Title Pages can be found at the end of the Bible. A description of each illustration is provided opposite the Bible illustrations. These descriptions offer insight into the artistic choices and the symbolism behind each illustration, deepening the reader's appreciation of the artwork. By providing context, they allow readers to connect more profoundly with the depicted scenes and their spiritual meanings. This thoughtful addition ensures that the illustrations not only beautify the text but also enrich the reader's engagement with the scripture.

God's Word is truly woven into this beautiful art journaling edition. The visual elements, such as the hand-lettered gold-ink illustrations, serve to captivate the reader's attention and enhance their overall experience. These artistic details can make the reading process more immersive, encouraging readers to spend more time reflecting on the text. Additionally, the visual appeal can evoke emotions and foster a deeper connection with the spiritual messages conveyed, making the scripture more memorable and impactful.

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