Bible Wisdom for Modern Times
sections from the Orthodox Old Testament

John Howard Reid

Review by Molly

John Reid’s Bible Wisdom for Modern Times sections from the Orthodox Old Testament opens with a prologue featuring Pitfalls and Rewards as gleaned from the supposed writings of King Solomon.  Wisdom was a keynote attributed to Solomon who tradition declares was known for thoughts regarding wise behavior, thoughts and writings. 

Whether actually written by Solomon himself, or by a group under the umbrella name of Solomon; I have long enjoyed the various treatise regarding wisdom and the importance of wisdom in our daily lives.

I like that Reid has undertaken this work.  Too many of us read the Bible as presented by those who have done translation, and the like, with little understanding that the original writings may or may not be fully delivered in the editions we hold dear today.  Because Jesus drew upon Tobias for many of his adages and allegorical narratives it is essential we have a perception of this little known man and the writings bearing his name.

Reid has noted, ‘What I've always wanted is a selection from the Bible of important material relevant to my life that's not only easy to read and understand but that sings to my soul. I've attempted to supply just that in Bible Wisdom for Modern Times.  It appears that on the pages of Bible Wisdom for Modern Times; Reid has accomplished his goal, and, well at that.

With some 20 pages devoted to one of my favorite Biblical books; I found much to enjoy as I read anew admonitions for seeking, gaining and keeping wisdom in our lives. 

Serious Bible scholars have long recognized that various writings accredited to King David were written by David and others.  The beauty and truth of the principles lose nothing whether actually written by David or another. 

Reid turns attention to ‘Greek’ Ezra and the story of Three Wise Young Men.  A contest, a riddle and a desire to curry favor leads to understanding that Truth is greater than any other force on earth.

As a reader of the Bible from childhood; I have long enjoyed the Psalms, I was intrigued to find new or newly translated Psalms included in this work.  They are a treat for those who enjoy the book of Psalms. 

The Adventures of Toby are written with a gentle hand.  They are a nice lead in to A Song of Solomon, one more Psalm and a discussion of Jesus ben Sirach.  I enjoyed reading each of the various sections presented in new light or with new enlightenment. 

John Howard Reid offers recently deciphered works along with paraphrased choices from Old Testament and the supposed mythical biblical wisdom prose.  Included in this particular volume are writings attributed to Solomon as well as anecdotes of Jesus Ben Sirach, and Tobias. 

Included in this edition as well are works of inspired Jewish and Greek writers.  Reid has spent a good bit of time bringing many of the old writings into modern English. The original chronicles of The Three Wise Young Men and Tobias, Tobit, have been recreated to make them more readable without losing any of the didactic utterances as appear to be constant with the original narratives.

The Prayer of Manasseh, Proverbs, Baruch, Susanna, The Visions of Ezra, Proverbs are included and rendered into modern English.

A must have for every serious Bible Reader; I am happy to recommend John Reid’s Bible Wisdom for Modern Times with sections from the Orthodox Old Testament for novice and long time Bible Readers.