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Bible, View of - Measurement Concept

Does the respondent think that the Bible should be taken literally, taken as a religiously inspired book, a book of fables, or some other view of the Bible?
139 Questions match selected parameters.

Survey Questions

BIBLE from Baylor Religion Survey, Wave II (2007)
Q18. Which one statement comes closest to your personal beliefs about the Bible? (Please mark only one box.)
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible means exactly what it says. It should be taken literally, word-for-word, on all subjects.35422.1
2) The Bible is perfectly true, but it should not be taken literally, word-for-word. We must interpret its meaning.56635.3
3) The Bible contains some human error.20012.5
4) The Bible is an ancient book of history and legends.38424.0
5) I don't know986.1
Missing45
Total1603100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2007
Cases: 1648
Variables: 318
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Mixed Mode
VCF0845 from American National Election Studies, Cumulative Data File, 1948-2004
Here are four statements about the Bible and I'd like you to tell me which is closest to your own view. (STATEMENTS SHOWN TO R)
 TOTAL%
0) NA; no Post IW; abbrev. telephone IW (1984); form A (1990)203215.4
1) The Bible is God's word and all it says is true548441.6
2) The Bible was written by men inspired by God but it contains some human errors.445633.8
3) The Bible is a good book because it was written by wise men, but God had nothing to do with it.6474.9
4) The Bible was written by men who lived so long ago that it is worth very little today.2211.7
9) DK; other3552.7
Missing34243
Total13195100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2004
Cases: 47438
Variables: 950
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Some years used telephone interviews, others used face-to-face interviews
VCF0850 from American National Election Studies, Cumulative Data File, 1948-2004
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? You can just give me the number of your choice. (see ARDA summary page for previous question wordings)
 TOTAL%
0) NA; form B (1990); short form or Spanish language questionnaire (1992)128510.5
1) The Bible is the actual Word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word408633.3
2) The Bible is the Word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word514841.9
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the Word of God149912.2
9) Other; DK2562.1
Missing35164
Total12274100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2004
Cases: 47438
Variables: 950
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Some years used telephone interviews, others used face-to-face interviews
ARBL_3 from Portraits of American Life Study, 1st Wave, 2006
Was your religious text fully inspired by God, partly inspired by God, or not inspired by God?
 TOTAL%
-7) Refused512.0
-4) Don't know582.2
1) Fully inspired by God151958.3
2) Partly inspired by God74328.5
3) Not inspired by God2178.3
4) I have never heard of the religious text160.6
Missing6
Total2605100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 2610
Variables: 666
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLVIEW from U.S. Congregational Life Survey, 2001, Random Attenders
Which statement comes closest to your view of the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the word of God, to be taken literally word for word.3284328.0
2) The Bible is the word of God, to be interpreted in the light of its historical and cultural context.2403820.5
3) The Bible is the word of God, to be interpreted in the light of its historical context and the Church's teachings.4968342.4
4) The Bible is not the word of God, but contains God's word to us.48554.1
5) The Bible is not the word of God but is a valuable book.16031.4
6) The Bible is an ancient book with little value today.3350.3
7) Don't know38033.2
Missing5244
Total117160100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2001
Cases: 122404
Variables: 175
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: Other: Random sample of people attending services on April 29, 2001/Age 15 and older
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Self-administered surveys handed out at congregations
BIBLE from General Social Survey 2010 Cross-Section and Panel Combined
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word; the Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything should be taken literally, word for word; the Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history and moral precepts recorded by man.
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word.158032.2
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything should be taken literally, word for word.219344.7
3) The Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history and moral precepts recorded by man.97920.0
4) Other751.5
8) Don't know491.0
9) No answer250.5
Total4901100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2010
Cases: 4901
Variables: 1221
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from General Social Survey 2008 Cross-Section and Panel Combined
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word; the Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything should be taken literally, word for word; the Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history and moral precepts recorded by man.
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word.113031.8
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything should be taken literally, word for word.167247.0
3) The Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history and moral precepts recorded by man.65318.3
4) Other521.5
8) Don't know361.0
9) No answer160.4
Total3559100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2008
Cases: 3559
Variables: 898
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from General Social Survey, 2004
Select from: a. Bible is actual word of God and is to be taken literally...; b. Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally ...; c. The Bible is an ancient book of fables, ... recorded by men.
 TOTAL%
1) Actual45033.6
2) Inspired62746.8
3) Ancient Book21916.3
4) Other231.7
8) Don't know141.0
9) No answer70.5
Missing1472
Total1340100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2004
Cases: 2812
Variables: 1174
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from General Social Survey, 2006
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? a. The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word; b. The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word; c. The Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history, and moral precepts recorded by men.
 TOTAL%
1) Actual word101033.8
2) Inspired word136345.6
3) Ancient book49716.6
4) Other732.4
8) Don't know371.2
9) No answer120.4
Missing1518
Total2992100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 4510
Variables: 1232
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from Houston Area Survey, 1982-2010
Which one of these three statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? (83-10)
 TOTAL%
-1) RF/DK10015.5
1) The Bible is the actual word of God, and it should be taken literally, word for word640735.4
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God, but it was written by men and contains some human errors947652.3
3) The Bible is an ancient book of history and legends; God had nothing to do with it12356.8
Missing424
Total18119100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2010
Cases: 17898
Variables: 770
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from General Social Survey, 2000
Select from: a. Bible is actual word of God and is to be taken literally...; b. Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally ...; c. The Bible is an ancient book of fables, ... recorded by men.
 TOTAL%
1) Actual word78333.6
2) Inspired word108446.5
3) Ancient book36115.5
4) Other231.0
8) Don't know713.0
9) No answer90.4
Missing486
Total2331100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2000
Cases: 2817
Variables: 1065
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from General Social Survey, 2002
Select from: a. Bible is actual word of God and is to be taken literally...; b. Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally ...; c. The Bible is an ancient book of fables, ... recorded by men.
 TOTAL%
1) Actual word39028.4
2) Inspired word72753.0
3) Ancient book19214.0
4) Other362.6
8) Don't know241.7
9) No answer30.2
Missing1393
Total1372100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2002
Cases: 1004
Variables: 2765
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
SCRIPTUR from Spirit and Power - A 10-Country Survey of Pentecostals
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about ____ [IF CHRISTIAN: the Bible] [IF MUSLIM: the Koran] [ELSE: sacred scriptures]?
 TOTAL%
1) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is][IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the actual word of God and [IS/ARE] to be taken literally, word for word, OR 64.3
2) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the word of God, but not everything in [IT/THEM] should be taken literally, word for word, OR 22.9
3) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] written by men and [IS/ARE] not the word of God 8.5
4) Other (VOLUNTEERED THIS RESPONSE) 0.7
8) Don't know 3.3
9) Refused 0.4
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 11028
Variables: 200
Scope: Other: United States; Brazil, Chile and Guatemala in Latin America; Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa in Africa; and India, the Philippines and South Korea in Asia.
Frame: Other: Pentecostals and Charismatics
Sample: Unknown Sample Types
Mode: Other: Telephone interviews in the United States and in-person in other countries.
TRERRORS from Religion and Politics Survey, 2000
Based on your knowledge of the Bible, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? -- The Bible may contain historical or scientific errors
 TOTAL%
1) True325158.0
2) False185133.0
3) Don't know/refused5018.9
Total5603100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2000
Cases: 5603
Variables: 144
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
TRINSPRD from Religion and Politics Survey, 2000
Based on your knowledge of the Bible, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? -- The Bible is the inspired word of God
 TOTAL%
1) True458781.9
2) False71412.7
3) Don't know/refused3025.4
Total5603100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2000
Cases: 5603
Variables: 144
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
TRLITRLY from Religion and Politics Survey, 2000
Based on your knowledge of the Bible, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? -- Everything in the Bible should be taken literally, word for word
 TOTAL%
1) True165729.6
2) False368665.8
3) Don't know/refused2604.6
Total5603100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2000
Cases: 5603
Variables: 144
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
Q20 from Baylor Religion Survey, Wave I (2005)
Q20 Which one statement comes closest to your personal beliefs about the Bible
 TOTAL%
1) It means exactly what it says/should be taken literally32719.4
2) It is perfectly true, should not be taken literally65038.6
3) The Bible contains some human error20612.2
4) The Bible is an ancient book of history and legends39823.6
5) I don't know1036.1
Missing37
Total1684100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2005
Cases: 1721
Variables: 395
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Mixed Mode
BIBLE from General Social Survey, 1990
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? a. Bible is actual word of God and is to be taken literally, b. Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, c. The Bible is an ancient book of fables recorded by men.
 TOTAL%
1) Actual word29932.2
2) Inspired word45549.0
3) Ancient book14015.1
4) Other70.8
8) Don't know192.0
9) No answer80.9
Missing444
Total928100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1990
Cases: 1372
Variables: 745
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from General Social Survey, 1996
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? a. Bible is actual word of God and is to be taken literally, b. Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, c. The Bible is an ancient book of fables recorded by men.
 TOTAL%
1) Actual word59230.2
2) Inspired word97049.5
3) Ancient book33417.0
4) Other120.6
8) Don't know402.0
9) No answer120.6
Missing944
Total1960100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1996
Cases: 2904
Variables: 1051
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
W10W1 from American National Election Studies, Panel Study, 2008-2009
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
-7) No answer30.1
-6) Not asked, unit non-response34611.3
-2) Missing, see documentation642.1
-1) Inapplicable148748.8
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally.35611.7
2) The Bible is the word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word.54517.9
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God.2488.1
Total3049100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2008
Cases: 3049
Variables: 2960
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Online Survey
W2V1 from American National Election Studies, Panel Study, 2008-2009
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
-7) No answer160.5
-6) Not asked, unit non-response149248.9
-2) Missing, see documentation782.6
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally40913.4
2) The Bible is the word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word72923.9
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God32510.7
Total3049100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2008
Cases: 3049
Variables: 2960
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Online Survey
V083184 from American National Election Studies, Time Series Study, 2008
Please look at page 17 of the booklet. Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? You can just give me the number of your choice: 1. The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word; 2. The Bible is the word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word; 3. The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God
 TOTAL%
-9) Refused210.9
-8) Don't know231.0
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word.101543.7
2) The Bible is the word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word.92639.9
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God.32313.9
7) Other (SPECIFY) [Vol.]150.6
Total2323100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2008
Cases: 2323
Variables: 1956
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
SCRIPTUR from Spirit and Power - Survey of Pentecostals in Brazil
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about ____ [IF CHRISTIAN: the Bible] [IF MUSLIM: the Koran] [ELSE: sacred scriptures]?
 TOTAL%
1) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is][IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the actual word of God and [IS/ARE] to be taken literally, word for word, OR 52.9
2) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the word of God, but not everything in [IT/THEM] should be taken literally, word for word, OR 30.1
3) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] written by men and [IS/ARE] not the word of God 12.0
4) Other (VOLUNTEERED THIS RESPONSE) 0.7
8) Don't know 4.1
9) Refused 0.1
Total1000100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 1000
Variables: 127
Scope: Other: Brazil, urban areas
Frame: Other: Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
SCRIPTUR from Spirit and Power - Survey of Pentecostals in Chile
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about ____ [IF CHRISTIAN: the Bible] [IF MUSLIM: the Koran] [ELSE: sacred scriptures]?
 TOTAL%
1) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is][IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the actual word of God and [IS/ARE] to be taken literally, word for word, OR 39.3
2) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the word of God, but not everything in [IT/THEM] should be taken literally, word for word, OR 36.8
3) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] written by men and [IS/ARE] not the word of God 16.7
4) Other (VOLUNTEERED THIS RESPONSE) 1.0
8) Don't know 4.7
9) Refused 1.5
Total988100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 988
Variables: 133
Scope: Other: Chile
Frame: Other: Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
Q37 from U.S. Religious Landscape Survey - Continental Dataset
Which comes closest to your view? [Holy book: If Christian or no Q.16ion (Q.16=1-4, 9, 10, 12, 13 OR CHR=1) insert 'the Bible'; If Jewish (Q.16=5), insert 'the Torah'; If Muslim (Q.16=6), insert, 'the Koran'; If other non-Christian affiliations (Q.16=7,8,14 OR (Q.16=11 AND CHR=2,9)), insert 'the Holy Scripture'; IF DK/REF IN RELIGION (Q.16=99) AND CHR=2,9, insert 'the Bible']
 TOTAL%
1) [Holy book] is the word of God 63.1
2) [Holy book] is a book written by men and is not the word of God 27.6
3) Other (Vol.) 5.2
9) Don't know/Refused (Vol.) 4.1
Total35556100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2007
Cases: 35556
Variables: 133
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
Q38 from U.S. Religious Landscape Survey - Continental Dataset
IF BELIEVE HOLY BOOK IS WORD OF GOD (Q.37=1), ASK: And would you say that . . .
 TOTAL%
1) [Holy book] is to be taken literally, word for word 51.9
2) Not everything in [Holy book] should be taken literally, word for word 42.6
3) Other (Vol.) 2.5
9) Don't know/Refused (Vol.) 3.0
Missing13313
Total22243100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2007
Cases: 35556
Variables: 133
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE1 from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2003
[ASK ONLY IF DQFORM= 1 'FORM 1'] Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word 32.6
2) The Bible is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word 42.4
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God 18.9
4) Other 1.6
9) Don't know/Refused 4.5
Missing1000
Total1002100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2003
Cases: 2002
Variables: 138
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE2 from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2003
[ASK ONLY IF DQFORM= 2 'FORM 2'] Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God 13.4
2) The Bible is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word 44.4
3) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word 37.6
4) Other 2.2
9) Don't know/Refused 2.5
Missing1001
Total1001100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2003
Cases: 2002
Variables: 138
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
FEELBIBL from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2005
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word; or the Bible is the word of God, but not everything should be taken literally, word for word; or the Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God.
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word. 36.5
2) The Bible is the word of God, but not everything should be taken literally, word for word. 40.2
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God. 17.8
4) Other 1.5
9) Don't know/Refused 4.1
Total2000100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2005
Cases: 2000
Variables: 152
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLITRL from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2007
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word 34.1
2) The Bible is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word 43.7
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God 16.0
4) Other 2.5
9) Don't Know/Refused 3.7
Total3002100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2007
Cases: 3002
Variables: 178
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
DETLIFE2 from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2008
Recode of responses to DETLIFE1 collapsed into common themes (Q56REC)
 NMeanStd. Deviation
Total144044.7031.86
Survey Details  
Year: 2008
Cases: 2905
Variables: 203
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
Q56 from Sub-Saharan Africa Religion Survey, 2010
Q56 [ASK IF CHRISTIAN] Which comes closest to your view? The Bible is the word of God, OR the Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God?
 TOTAL%
1) Word of God 95.6
2) Written by men, not the word of God 3.1
3) Other 0.3
8) Don't know 0.8
9) Refused 0.2
Missing9549
Total15542100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2009
Cases: 25091
Variables: 203
Scope: Other: sub-Saharan Africa (Botswana, Cameroon, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania)
Frame: Other: Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
Q57 from Sub-Saharan Africa Religion Survey, 2010
Q57 [ASK IF CHRISTIAN] And would you say that the Bible is to be taken literally, word for word, OR not everything in the Bible should be taken literally, word for word?
 TOTAL%
1) Taken literally, word for word 75.8
2) Not everything should be taken literally, word for word 20.4
3) Other 0.8
8) Don't know 2.6
9) Refused 0.4
Missing9549
Total15542100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2009
Cases: 25091
Variables: 203
Scope: Other: sub-Saharan Africa (Botswana, Cameroon, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania)
Frame: Other: Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from ABC News Religion Poll, 1997
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible:
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God to be taken literally, word for word,37543.4
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God -- not everything should be taken word for word, or38244.2
3) The Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history and more perceptions recorded by men.10612.3
Missing26
Total863100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1997
Cases: 752
Variables: 33
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from General Social Survey, 1988
Select from: a. Bible is actual word of God and is to be taken literally...; b. Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally ...; c. The Bible is an ancient book of fables, ... recorded by men.
 TOTAL%
1) Actual word50534.1
2) Inspired word69647.0
3) Ancient book23916.1
4) Other100.7
8) Don't know281.9
9) No answer30.2
Total1481100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1988
Cases: 1481
Variables: 660
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from General Social Survey, 1991
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? Select from: a. The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word...; b. The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word...; c. The Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history, and moral precepts recorded by men. (BIBLE)
 TOTAL%
1) Actual word35534.7
2) Inspired word48847.7
3) Ancient book15114.7
4) Other (volunteered)80.8
8) Don't know181.8
9) No answer40.4
Missing493
Total1024100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1991
Cases: 1481
Variables: 758
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE1 from General Social Survey, 1991
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible:
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and it is to be taken literally, word for word.43031.6
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything should be taken literally, word for word.63947.0
3) The Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history, and moral precepts recorded by man.18813.8
4) This does not apply to me.272.0
8) Can't choose503.7
9) No answer251.8
Missing158
Total1359100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1991
Cases: 1481
Variables: 758
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
SCRIPTUR from Spirit and Power - Survey of Pentecostals in the Philippines
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about ____ [IF CHRISTIAN: the Bible] [IF MUSLIM: the Koran] [ELSE: sacred scriptures]?
 TOTAL%
1) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is][IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the actual word of God and [IS/ARE] to be taken literally, word for word, OR 53.2
2) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the word of God, but not everything in [IT/THEM] should be taken literally, word for word, OR 40.3
3) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] written by men and [IS/ARE] not the word of God 4.9
4) Other (VOLUNTEERED THIS RESPONSE) 0.2
8) Don't know 1.3
9) Refused 0.0
Total1300100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 1300
Variables: 134
Scope: Other: Philippines
Frame: Other: Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
SCRIPTUR from Spirit and Power - Survey of Pentecostals in Chosen Regions of India
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about ____ [IF CHRISTIAN: the Bible] [IF MUSLIM: the Koran] [ELSE: sacred scriptures]?
 TOTAL%
1) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is][IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the actual word of God and [IS/ARE] to be taken literally, word for word, OR 49.9
2) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the word of God, but not everything in [IT/THEM] should be taken literally, word for word, OR 18.2
3) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] written by men and [IS/ARE] not the word of God 28.9
4) Other (VOLUNTEERED THIS RESPONSE) 0.3
8) Don't know 2.3
9) Refused 0.4
Total1224100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 1224
Variables: 128
Scope: Other: India
Frame: Other: Indian adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Mailed
SCRIPTUR from Spirit and Power - Survey of Pentecostals in South Africa
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about ____ [IF CHRISTIAN: the Bible] [IF MUSLIM: the Koran] [ELSE: sacred scriptures]?
 TOTAL%
1) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is][IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the actual word of God and [IS/ARE] to be taken literally, word for word, OR 59.4
2) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the word of God, but not everything in [IT/THEM] should be taken literally, word for word, OR 25.7
3) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] written by men and [IS/ARE] not the word of God 6.5
4) Other (VOLUNTEERED THIS RESPONSE) 0.6
8) Don't know 7.1
9) Refused 0.6
Total1137100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 1137
Variables: 128
Scope: Other: South Africa
Frame: Other: Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
SCRIPTUR from Spirit and Power - Survey of Pentecostals in South Korea
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about ____ [IF CHRISTIAN: the Bible] [IF MUSLIM: the Koran] [ELSE: sacred scriptures]?
 TOTAL%
1) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is][IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the actual word of God and [IS/ARE] to be taken literally, word for word, OR 32.7
2) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the word of God, but not everything in [IT/THEM] should be taken literally, word for word, OR 20.2
3) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] written by men and [IS/ARE] not the word of God 26.8
4) Other (VOLUNTEERED THIS RESPONSE) 0.2
8) Don't know 20.0
9) Refused 0.2
Total1000100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 1000
Variables: 127
Scope: Other: Korea
Frame: Other: Korean adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Mailed
SCRIPTUR from Spirit and Power - Survey of Pentecostals in the United States
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about ____ [IF CHRISTIAN: the Bible] [IF MUSLIM: the Koran] [ELSE: sacred scriptures]?
 TOTAL%
1) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is][IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the actual word of God and [IS/ARE] to be taken literally, word for word, OR 35.1
2) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the word of God, but not everything in [IT/THEM] should be taken literally, word for word, OR 40.9
3) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] written by men and [IS/ARE] not the word of God 18.8
4) Other (VOLUNTEERED THIS RESPONSE) 2.4
8) Don't know 1.9
9) Refused 0.9
Total1074100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 1074
Variables: 129
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Politics of Character Survey, 2000
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the inspired Word of God, not mistaken in its statements and teaching, and is to be taken literally, word for word.33628.5
2) The Bible is the inspired work of God, not mistaken in its teachings, but is not always to be taken literal, word for word.38332.5
3) The Bible becomes the Word of God for a person who reads it in faith.23419.9
4) The Bible is an ancient book of legends, history and moral precepts recorded by men.20517.4
5) None of these [VOL]191.6
Missing26
Total1177100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2000
Cases: 1203
Variables: 145
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
QN28 from U.S. Religious Knowledge Study, 2010
28. [If Christian, unaffiliated, or don't know/refused, 'The Bible' is used. If Jewish, 'The Hebrew Scriptures' is used. If Muslim, 'The Koran' is used. If other faith, 'The Holy Scripture' is used.] Which comes closest to your view?
 TOTAL%
1) (BOOK) the word of God 66.2
2) (BOOK) written by men and not the word of God 27.5
3) Other 2.6
8) Don't know 3.3
9) Refused 0.4
Total3412100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2010
Cases: 3412
Variables: 120
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
QN29 from U.S. Religious Knowledge Study, 2010
29. And would you say that...?
 TOTAL%
1) (BOOK) to be taken literally, word for word 52.7
2) Not everything in (BOOK) should be taken literally 42.4
3) Other 1.3
8) Don't know 3.2
9) Refused 0.5
Missing1262
Total2150100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2010
Cases: 3412
Variables: 120
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
Q37 from U.S. Religious Landscape Survey - Alaska and Hawaii Dataset
Which comes closest to your view? [Holy book: If Christian or no Q.16ion (Q.16=1-4, 9, 10, 12, 13 OR CHR=1) insert 'the Bible'; If Jewish (Q.16=5), insert 'the Torah'; If Muslim (Q.16=6), insert, 'the Koran'; If other non-Christian affiliations (Q.16=7,8,14 OR (Q.16=11 AND CHR=2,9)), insert 'the Holy Scripture'; IF DK/REF IN RELIGION (Q.16=99) AND CHR=2,9, insert 'the Bible']
 TOTAL%
1) [Holy book] is the word of God 59.7
2) [Holy book] is a book written by men and is not the word of God 29.4
3) Other (Vol.) 7.3
9) Don't know/Refused (Vol.) 3.7
Total401100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2008
Cases: 401
Variables: 129
Scope: Regional Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
Q38 from U.S. Religious Landscape Survey - Alaska and Hawaii Dataset
IF BELIEVE HOLY BOOK IS WORD OF GOD (Q.37=1), ASK: And would you say that . . .
 TOTAL%
1) [Holy book] is to be taken literally, word for word 49.2
2) Not everything in [Holy book] should be taken literally, word for word 46.7
3) Other (Vol.) 1.7
9) Don't know/Refused (Vol.) 2.4
Missing185
Total216100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2008
Cases: 401
Variables: 129
Scope: Regional Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from State of Disunion Survey, 1996
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the inspired Word of God, not mistaken in its statements and teaching, and is to be taken literally, word for word.65433.5
2) The Bible is the inspired work of God, not mistaken in its teachings, but is not always to be taken literally, word for word.63932.7
3) The Bible becomes the Word of God for a person who reads it in faith38719.8
4) The Bible is an ancient book of legends, history and moral precepts recorded by men.24312.4
5) None of these321.6
Missing92
Total1955100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1996
Cases: 2047
Variables: 497
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
TRFAEROR from Economic Values Survey, 1992
In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? -- The Bible may contain historical or scientific errors.
 TOTAL%
1) True305360.8
2) False136627.2
3) Don't know60012.0
Total5019100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1992
Cases: 2013
Variables: 479
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
TRFAINSP from Economic Values Survey, 1992
In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? -- The Bible is the inspired word of God.
 TOTAL%
1) True391678.0
2) False66713.3
3) Don't know4368.7
Total5019100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1992
Cases: 2013
Variables: 479
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
TRFALITR from Economic Values Survey, 1992
In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? -- Everything in the Bible should be taken literally, word for word.
 TOTAL%
1) True142828.5
2) False314962.7
3) Don't know4418.8
Total5019100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1992
Cases: 2013
Variables: 479
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
TRFARULE from Economic Values Survey, 1992
In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? -- The Bible is a detailed book of rules that Christians should try to follow.
 TOTAL%
1) True348569.4
2) False98819.7
3) Don't know54510.9
Total5019100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1992
Cases: 2013
Variables: 479
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from America's Evangelicals
(ASK IF NOT OTHER RELIGION NOT CHRISTIAN AND NOT NO PREFERENCE/ATHEIST/AGNOSTIC IN RELIG1A) I am going to read you a short list of statements. Please tell me which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the (INSERT NAME OF HOLY BOOK -- Bible for Protestants,Roman Catholics, Mormons,Orthodox Church, and Other Christians; Koran for Muslims; and Torah for Jews)?
 TOTAL%
1) (Holy book) is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word.72845.2
2) (Holy book) is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word.63839.6
3) (Holy book) is a book written by men and is not the word of God.1609.9
4) Other (SPECIFY) (VOL)402.5
5) Don't know/Refused442.7
Total1610100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2004
Cases: 1610
Variables: 160
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: Other: White Evangelicals
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from General Social Survey, 1998
Select from: a. Bible is actual word of God and is to be taken literally...; b. Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally ...; c. The Bible is an ancient book of fables, ... recorded by men.
 TOTAL%
1) Actual word72430.6
2) Inspired word116449.1
3) Ancient book38316.2
4) Other251.1
8) Don't know592.5
9) No answer140.6
Missing463
Total2369100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1998
Cases: 2832
Variables: 858
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE1 from General Social Survey, 1998
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible: 1) the bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally...; 2) the Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything should be taken literally...; 3) the Bible is an ancient book of fables...recorded by man.
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and it is to be taken literally, word for word35827.9
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything should be taken literally, word for word58545.6
3) The Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history and moral20716.1
4) Don't know403.1
8) Can't choose564.4
9) No answer383.0
Missing1548
Total1284100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1998
Cases: 2832
Variables: 858
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
QN50 from Changing Faiths, Latinos and the Transformation of American Religion
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word 50.4
2) The Bible is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word 31.4
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God 11.7
7) Other 0.7
8) Don't know 4.4
9) Refused 1.4
Total4016100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 4016
Variables: 230
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: Other: U.S. Latinos only
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Life Choices, 1990
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally88440.7
2) The Bible is the inspired work of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word.90541.6
3) The Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history and moral precepts recorded by men.31414.4
4) None of these713.3
Total2174100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1990
Cases: 2174
Variables: 281
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Other
Mode: In-Person
V146 from American Mosaic Project - A National Survey on Diversity
Which of these three statements comes closest to describing your views regarding the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the literal word of God.67432.4
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally.109352.5
3) The Bible is a wise book, but God had nothing to do with it.26212.6
8) Don't know180.9
9) Refused341.6
Total2081100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2003
Cases: 2081
Variables: 210
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLEBEL from American National Election Studies, 2004
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? You can just give me the number of your choice.
 TOTAL%
1) The bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word.43535.9
2) The Bible is the word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word.55746.0
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God.18715.4
7) Other161.3
8) Don't know70.6
9) Refused100.8
Total1212100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2004
Cases: 1212
Variables: 1184
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from News Interest Index, Religion Overflow, July 2005
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word. 33.7
2) The Bible is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word. 40.8
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God. 18.6
4) Other 2.7
9) Don't know/Refused 4.1
Total1502100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2005
Cases: 1502
Variables: 156
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
FEELBBL from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2001
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word. 36.3
2) The Bible is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word. 43.1
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God. 13.5
4) Other 3.0
9) Don't know/Refused 4.0
Total2041100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2001
Cases: 2041
Variables: 157
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
FEELBIB from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2006
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? 1. The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word; 2. The Bible is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word; or 3. The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God.
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word. 34.9
2) The Bible is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word. 43.1
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God. 18.1
4) Other (if volunteered) 1.7
9) Don't know/Refused (if volunteered) 2.2
Total2003100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 2003
Variables: 146
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
HBOOK_A from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2009
Which comes closest to your view? [Note: See answer to HTEXT_A for the name of the holy book inserted below.] (Q186)
 TOTAL%
1) [Holy book] is the word of God 68.9
2) [Holy book] is a book written by men and is not the word of God 22.4
3) Other (VOL.) 3.6
9) Don't know/Refused (VOL.) 5.0
Missing2003
Total2010100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2009
Cases: 4013
Variables: 264
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
HBOOK_B from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2009
Which comes closest to your view? [Note: See answer to HTEXT_B for the name of the holy book inserted below.] (Q286)
 TOTAL%
1) [Holy book] is the word of God 69.3
2) [Holy book] is a book written by men and is not the word of God 23.3
3) Other (VOL.) 2.8
9) Don't know/Refused (VOL.) 4.6
Missing2010
Total2003100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2009
Cases: 4013
Variables: 264
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
LITERL_A from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2009
If HBOOK_A = 1: And would you say that... [Note: See answer to HTEXT_A for the name of the holy book inserted below.] (Q187)
 TOTAL%
1) [Holy book] is to be taken literally, word for word 48.5
2) Not everything in [Holy book] should be taken literally, word for word 46.3
3) Other (VOL.) 1.5
9) Don't know/Refused (VOL.) 3.7
Missing2642
Total1371100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2009
Cases: 4013
Variables: 264
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
LITERL_B from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2009
If HBOOK_B = 1: And would you say that... [Note: See answer to HTEXT_B for the name of the holy book inserted below.] (Q287)
 TOTAL%
1) [Holy book] is to be taken literally, word for word, 50.8
2) Not everything in [Holy book] should be taken literally, word for word 43.8
3) Other (VOL.) 1.5
9) Don't know/Refused (VOL.) 3.9
Missing2635
Total1378100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2009
Cases: 4013
Variables: 264
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
HOLYBOOK from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2010
Which comes closest to your view? [Holy book: If Christian or no religion (RELIG = 1-4, 9, 10, 12, 13 OR CHR=1) insert 'the Bible'; If Jewish (RELIG =5), insert 'the Torah'; If Muslim (RELIG=6), insert, 'the Koran'; If other non-Christian affiliations (RELIG=99) AND CHR=2,9, insert 'the Bible'] is the word of God, or [holy book] is written by men and is not the word of God?
 TOTAL%
1) [Holy book] is the word of God 67.7
2) [Holy book] is a book written by men and is not the word of God 23.4
3) Other (Vol.) 2.5
9) Don't know/Refused (Vol.) 6.3
Total3003100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2010
Cases: 3003
Variables: 152
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
LITERAL from Religion and Public Life Survey, 2010
ASK IF BELIEVE HOLY BOOK IS WORD OF GOD: And would you say that [holy book] is to be taken literally, word for word, or not everything in [holy book] should be taken literally, word for word?
 TOTAL%
1) [Holy book] is to be taken literally, word for word 50.7
2) Not everything in [holy book] should be taken literally, word for word 44.0
3) Other (Vol.) 1.5
9) Don't know/Refused (Vol.) 3.7
Missing954
Total2049100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2010
Cases: 3003
Variables: 152
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Religion and America's Role in the World
Skip if respondent answered other religion- not Christian, no preference/Atheist/Agnostic, or don't know/refused in RELIG1A: I am going to read you a short list of statements. Please tell me which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the (if Protestant, Catholic, Orthodox, or other Christian in variable RELIG1A, insert "the Bible"; if Muslim/Islam, insert "the Koran"; if Jewish, insert "the Torah"; if Morman, insert "the Book of Mormon"; if other non-Christian religion, no preference, or don't know\refused then insert "a religious or holy book"): (book) is the actual word of God, and is to be taken literally, word for word; (book) is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word; (book) is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word; (book) is a book written by men and is not the word of God.
 TOTAL%
1) (book) is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word.50143.1
2) (book) is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word.52945.5
3) (book) is a book written by men and is not the word of God887.6
4) Other50.4
5) Don't know/refused393.4
Missing238
Total1162100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2008
Cases: 1400
Variables: 114
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: Other: Includes an oversample of Evangelicals, and a portion of that sample were part of web, opt-in survey.
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Houston Area Survey, 2010
Which one of these three statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
-1) RF/DK668.8
1) The Bible is the actual word of God, and it should be taken literally, word for word26435.2
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God, but it was written by men and contains some human errors35947.9
3) The Bible is an ancient book of history and legends; God had nothing to do with it618.1
Total750100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2010
Cases: 750
Variables: 142
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE1 from News Interest Index, March 2004
[ASK ONLY IF FORM= 1] Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word. 40.2
2) The Bible is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word. 40.9
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God. 14.0
4) Other 1.3
9) Don't know/Refused 3.5
Missing839
Total864100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2004
Cases: 1703
Variables: 157
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE2 from News Interest Index, March 2004
[ASK ONLY IF FORM= 2] Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God. 11.6
2) The Bible is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word. 43.3
3) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word. 38.9
4) Other 1.1
9) Don't know/Refused 5.1
Missing864
Total839100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2004
Cases: 1703
Variables: 157
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
SCRIPTUR from Spirit and Power - Survey of Pentecostals in Guatemala
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about ____ [IF CHRISTIAN: the Bible] [IF MUSLIM: the Koran] [ELSE: sacred scriptures]?
 TOTAL%
1) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is][IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the actual word of God and [IS/ARE] to be taken literally, word for word, OR 77.4
2) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the word of God, but not everything in [IT/THEM] should be taken literally, word for word, OR 14.2
3) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] written by men and [IS/ARE] not the word of God 4.9
4) Other (VOLUNTEERED THIS RESPONSE) 1.5
8) Don't know 1.5
9) Refused 0.5
Total1305100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 1305
Variables: 133
Scope: Other: Guatemala
Frame: Other: Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
SCRIPTUR from Spirit and Power - Survey of Pentecostals in Kenya
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about ____ [IF CHRISTIAN: the Bible] [IF MUSLIM: the Koran] [ELSE: sacred scriptures]?
 TOTAL%
1) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is][IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the actual word of God and [IS/ARE] to be taken literally, word for word, OR 80.4
2) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the word of God, but not everything in [IT/THEM] should be taken literally, word for word, OR 18.0
3) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] written by men and [IS/ARE] not the word of God 0.4
4) Other (VOLUNTEERED THIS RESPONSE) 0.0
8) Don't know 1.1
9) Refused 0.1
Total1001100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 1001
Variables: 134
Scope: Other: Kenya
Frame: Other: Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
SCRIPTUR from Spirit and Power - Survey of Pentecostals in Nigeria
Which one of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about ____ [IF CHRISTIAN: the Bible] [IF MUSLIM: the Koran] [ELSE: sacred scriptures]?
 TOTAL%
1) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is][IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the actual word of God and [IS/ARE] to be taken literally, word for word, OR 87.6
2) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] the word of God, but not everything in [IT/THEM] should be taken literally, word for word, OR 10.0
3) [IF CHRISTIAN: The Bible is] [IF MUSLIM: The Koran is] [ELSE: Sacred scriptures are] written by men and [IS/ARE] not the word of God 0.3
4) Other (VOLUNTEERED THIS RESPONSE) 1.2
8) Don't know 0.8
9) Refused 0.1
Total999100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2006
Cases: 999
Variables: 133
Scope: Other: Nigeria
Frame: Other: Nigerian adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Mailed
BIBLE from American Jewish Committee Religious Right Survey, 1996
Now we have some questions about religious beliefs some people may hold. Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word25439.0
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word28043.0
3) The Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history, and moral precepts recorded by men9714.9
4) Don't know/No answer203.1
Total651100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1996
Cases: 1010
Variables: 129
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 2004
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement? 'Every word of the Bible is true.' Do you:
 TOTAL%
1) Strongly Disagree478.6
2) Disagree8715.8
3) Neutral9417.1
4) Agree13324.2
5) Strongly Agree18834.2
Missing51
Total549100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2004
Cases: 600
Variables: 70
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIB_ERR from Arts and Religion Survey, 1999
In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? - The Bible may contain historical or scientific errors.
 TOTAL%
1) True22721653.6
2) False13584632.1
3) Don't Know, Refused6065114.3
Total423713100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1999
Cases: 1530
Variables: 329
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIB_FOLL from Arts and Religion Survey, 1999
In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? - The Bible is a detailed book of rules that Christians should try to follow.
 TOTAL%
1) True32202376.0
2) False6293014.9
3) Don't Know, Refused387609.1
Total423713100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1999
Cases: 1530
Variables: 329
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIB_INSP from Arts and Religion Survey, 1999
In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? - The Bible is the inspired word of God.
 TOTAL%
1) True34727882.0
2) False412679.7
3) Don't Know, Refused351688.3
Total423713100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1999
Cases: 1530
Variables: 329
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIB_LIT from Arts and Religion Survey, 1999
In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? - Everything in the Bible should be taken literally, word for word.
 TOTAL%
1) True14914935.2
2) False23990556.6
3) Don't Know, Refused346598.2
Total423713100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1999
Cases: 1530
Variables: 329
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
GDTRUTH from Arts and Religion Survey, 1999
Here are several pairs of statements. For each pair, tell me which one comes closest to your own view.
 TOTAL%
1) God's Truth Is Fully Revealed Only in The Bible8387720.9
2) The Bible is One of The Many Ways in Which God's Truth is Revealed31836479.1
Missing75
Total402241100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1999
Cases: 1530
Variables: 329
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from Faith and Family in America, 2005
(IF PROTESTANT/CATHOLIC/MUSLIM/JEWISH/MORMON/OTHER CHRISTIAN OR ORTHODOX) I am going to read you a short list of statements. Please tell me which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the (holy book).
 TOTAL%
1) (Holy book) is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word36941.3
2) (Holy book) is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word41146.0
3) (Holy book) is a book written by men and is not the word of God788.7
4) Other60.7
5) Don't know/refused293.2
Missing238
Total893100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2005
Cases: 1131
Variables: 112
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Lilly Survey of Attitudes and Social Networks
Do you think that the Bible is the inspired word of God, or not?
 TOTAL%
0) Refused50.3
1) Yes, inspired161788.9
2) No, not inspired1337.3
99) Don't know653.6
Missing770
Total1820100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2000
Cases: 2561
Variables: 310
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLVIEW from Lilly Survey of Attitudes and Social Networks
[If BIBLE=1] I'm going to read you three views about the Bible. Please tell me which one best reflects your own view:
 TOTAL%
0) Refused30.2
1) The first: the Bible is true in all ways, and to be read literally word for word64139.7
2) The second: the Bible is true in all ways, but not always to be read literally58636.2
3) The third: the Bible is a moral guide, but should not be read literally, and may contain some errors about non-religious matters38023.5
99) Don't know80.5
Missing973
Total1617100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2000
Cases: 2561
Variables: 310
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Religion and Politics Survey, 1996
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word 35.5
2) The Bible is the word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word 46.3
3) The Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God 14.5
4) Other 1.7
5) Don't know/Refused 2.0
Total1975100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1996
Cases: 1975
Variables: 151
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from General Social Survey, 1994
Select from: a. Bible is actual word of God and is to be taken literally. . . ; b. Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally . . . ; c. The Bible is an ancient book of fables, . . . Recorded by men.
 TOTAL%
1) Actual word61631.2
2) Inspired word100250.7
3) Ancient book29214.8
4) Other180.9
8) Don't know341.7
9) No answer150.8
Missing1015
Total1977100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1994
Cases: 2992
Variables: 852
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE1 from Small Groups Survey, 1991 (Groups Sample)
ASKED ONLY OF THOSE RESPONDENTS WHO ARE CURRENTLY INVOLVED IN ANY SMALL GROUP THAT MEETS REGULARLY AND PROVIDES SUPPORT OR CARING FOR THOSE WHO PARTICIPATE IN IT: In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? -- The Bible is the inspired word of God.
 TOTAL%
1) True88887.0
2) False777.6
3) Don't know/Refused555.4
Total1020100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1991
Cases: 1021
Variables: 295
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: Other: Specifically looking for individuals in small groups.
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE2 from Small Groups Survey, 1991 (Groups Sample)
ASKED ONLY OF THOSE RESPONDENTS WHO ARE CURRENTLY INVOLVED IN ANY SMALL GROUP THAT MEETS REGULARLY AND PROVIDES SUPPORT OR CARING FOR THOSE WHO PARTICIPATE IN IT: In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? -- Everything in the Bible should be taken literally, word for word.
 TOTAL%
1) True38938.2
2) False55554.5
3) Don't know/Refused757.4
Total1020100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1991
Cases: 1021
Variables: 295
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: Other: Specifically looking for individuals in small groups.
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE3 from Small Groups Survey, 1991 (Groups Sample)
ASKED ONLY OF THOSE RESPONDENTS WHO ARE CURRENTLY INVOLVED IN ANY SMALL GROUP THAT MEETS REGULARLY AND PROVIDES SUPPORT OR CARING FOR THOSE WHO PARTICIPATE IN IT: In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? -- The Bible may contain historical or scientific errors.
 TOTAL%
1) True53051.9
2) False37536.7
3) Don't know/Refused11611.3
Total1020100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1991
Cases: 1021
Variables: 295
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: Other: Specifically looking for individuals in small groups.
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE6 from Small Groups Survey, 1991 (Groups Sample)
ASKED ONLY OF THOSE RESPONDENTS WHO ARE CURRENTLY INVOLVED IN ANY SMALL GROUP THAT MEETS REGULARLY AND PROVIDES SUPPORT OR CARING FOR THOSE WHO PARTICIPATE IN IT: In your opinion, is each of the following statements about the Bible true or false? -- The Bible is a detailed book of rules that Christians should try to follow.
 TOTAL%
1) True69167.7
2) False26325.8
3) Don't know/Refused666.5
Total1020100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1991
Cases: 1021
Variables: 295
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: Other: Specifically looking for individuals in small groups.
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from Survey of Religion and Community Life in Indianapolis, 1999
Which of the following statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? Would you say:
 TOTAL%
1) Bible is the Word of God, to be taken literally.30537.8
2) Bible is the Word of God, but not to be taken literally.32540.3
3) Bible is legends, history and teachings.16019.9
7) Other101.2
8) Don't know40.5
9) Refused20.2
Total806100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1999
Cases: 806
Variables: 136
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Winthrop University Student Religion Survey, 1996
What about the nature of the Bible? Which of the following statements comes closest to your beliefs about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the word of God and it means what it says. It should be taken literally, word-for-word, on all subjects.6823.2
2) The Bible is the word of God and is perfectly true, but is should not be taken literally, word-for-word. We must interpret its meaning.11338.6
3) The Bible is the inspired word of God, but it was written by men and contains some human errors.7224.6
4) The Bible is an ancient book of history and legends. God had nothing to do with it.227.5
9) I am unsure on this.186.1
Missing13
Total293100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1996
Cases: 306
Variables: 46
Scope: Other: The target population for this survey was students at Winthrop University, a state university in South Carolina
Frame: Other: Lower-division, general education classes
Sample: Unknown Sample Types
Mode: Other: Self-report questionnaire
BIBLE from Religious Identity and Influence Survey, 1996
[ASKED OF GROUP 1 AND GROUP 2] Do you believe the Bible is the inspired word of God or not?/ I'm going to read you three views about the Bible [READ LIST] 1. The first is: the Bible is true in all ways, and to be read literally, word for word. 2. The second is: the Bible is true in all ways, but not always to be read literally. 3. The third is: the Bible is true primarily about religious matters, but may contain errors about other things.
 TOTAL%
1) True/literal97943.3
2) True/Not literal93241.2
3) True w/Errors1918.4
4) Not inspired673.0
5) DK662.9
6) Refused281.2
Missing327
Total2263100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1996
Cases: 2590
Variables: 168
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
INSPIRED from Religious Identity and Influence Survey, 1996
[ASKED OF GROUP 1 AND GROUP 2] Do you believe the Bible is the inspired word of God, or not?
 TOTAL%
1) Inspired215195.1
2) Not Inspired673.0
3) DK361.6
4) Refused90.4
Missing327
Total2263100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1996
Cases: 2590
Variables: 168
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Williamsburg Charter Survey On Religion and Public Life, 1987
ASKED ONLY OF THOSE WHO RESPONDED TO HAVING A PROTESTANT DENOMINATION: Do you believe Bible is literally true, word for word?
 TOTAL%
0) Not applicable157547.0
1) Yes82124.5
2) Mostly2056.1
3) No61718.4
8) Don't know1323.9
Missing13
Total3350100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1987
Cases: 3363
Variables: 109
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: Other: Additional interviews were conducted with seven leadership groups, including business executives, college professors, government leaders, newspaper editors and radio/TV news directors, Protestant ministers, Roman Catholic priests and rabbis.
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
YBIBLE from Young Adolescents and Their Parents, A National Study, 1984 - Youth Component
Which of these statements is closest to your view of the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) I don't know what the Bible is.1932.4
2) I don't think God had much to do with what's in the Bible - the Bible is just a lot of stories that people made up.3874.9
3) I believe God guided the people who wrote the Bible, but I don't think every word came from God.330841.8
4) I believe every word of the Bible is exactly what God wanted put in it.403150.9
Missing246
Total7919100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1984
Cases: 8165
Variables: 360
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: Denominations
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from General Social Survey, 1993
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible? a. The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word. b. The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word . c. The Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history, and moral precepts recorded by men.
 TOTAL%
1) Actual word35633.0
2) Inspired word52448.5
3) Ancient book16315.1
4) Other90.8
8) Don't know222.0
9) No answer60.6
Missing526
Total1080100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1993
Cases: 1606
Variables: 651
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: In-Person
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1999
Which of the following statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is an ancient book of stories, legend, history, and moral principles6115.3
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word16741.8
3) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word15137.8
8) Don't know/not sure215.3
Missing8
Total400100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1999
Cases: 408
Variables: 107
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Religious Fundamentalism Scale, 1988
Please indicate the degree to which you agree or disagree with the following statement - The Bible is the word of God.
 TOTAL%
1) Strongly disagree1313.5
2) Disagree1111.5
3) Undecided2222.9
4) Agree2324.0
5) Strongly Agree2728.1
Total96100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1988
Cases: 96
Variables: 28
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals
STORIES from Religious Fundamentalism Scale, 1988
Please indicate the degree to which you agree or disagree with the following statement - The stories in the Bible about Christ healing sick and lame persons by his touch are fictitious and mythical.
 TOTAL%
1) Strongly disagree2930.2
2) Disagree3132.3
3) Undecided2222.9
4) Agree77.3
5) Strongly Agree77.3
Total96100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1988
Cases: 96
Variables: 28
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals
BIBLIT from Four-State Church Involvement Study, 1988
Here are some more questions about religion. Please tell me if you agree or disagree with the following statements. If unsure, all things considered, do you tend to agree or disagree with -- The bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word.
 TOTAL%
1) Agree110243.5
2) Disagree143056.5
Missing88
Total2532100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1988
Cases: 2620
Variables: 124
Scope: Other
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study (Autumn), 1981
Do you believe that every word of the Bible is true?
 TOTAL%
1) Yes18666.4
2) No5318.9
3) Not sure4114.6
Missing1
Total280100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1981
Cases: 281
Variables: 104
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Mailed
BIBLE from Dimensions of Religiosity, 1988
The following question deals with religion. Please read the question carefully and select the response which most accurately represents your beliefs. Which of the following best expresses your view of the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) It is God's word and all it says is true.2626.8
2) It was written by men inspired by God, but because the writers were men, it contains some human errors.5152.6
3) It is valuable because it was written by wise and good men, but God has nothing to do with it.1717.5
4) The Bible is too old to be of value today.33.1
Total97100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1988
Cases: 97
Variables: 34
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals
MIRACLE from Dimensions of Religiosity, 1988
The following question deals with religion. Please read the question carefully and select the response which most accurately represents your beliefs. When it comes to miracles recorded in the Bible
 TOTAL%
1) I believe in them.4748.5
2) I do not believe in them.1111.3
3) I am not sure because they have not been proven.3940.2
Total97100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1988
Cases: 97
Variables: 34
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals
BIBLE from Dimensions of Religiosity, 1987
The following question deals with religion. Please read the question carefully and select the response which most accurately represents your beliefs. Which of the following best expresses your view of the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) It is God's word and all it says is true.2828.0
2) It was written by men inspired by God, but because the writers were men it contains some human errors.5757.0
3) It is valuable because it was written by wise and good men, but God has nothing to do with it.1515.0
Total100100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1987
Cases: 100
Variables: 41
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals
MIRACLE from Dimensions of Religiosity, 1987
The following question deals with religion. Please read the question carefully and select the response which most accurately represents your beliefs. When it comes to miracles recorded in the Bible
 TOTAL%
1) I believe in them.6262.0
2) I do not believe in them.99.0
3) I am not sure because they have not been proven.2929.0
Total100100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1987
Cases: 100
Variables: 41
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals
BIBLE from Dimensions of Religiosity, 1985
The following question deals with religion. Please read the question carefully and select the response which most accurately represents your beliefs. Which of the following best expresses your view of the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) It is God's word and all it says is true.4141.4
2) It was written by men inspired by God, but because the writers were men it contains some human errors.5454.5
3) It is valuable because it was written by wise and good men, but God has nothing to do with it.33.0
4) The Bible is too old to be of value today.11.0
Total99100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1985
Cases: 99
Variables: 40
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: CATI Questionnaires entered at on-campus location
MIRACLE from Dimensions of Religiosity, 1985
The following question deals with religion. Please read the question carefully and select the response which most accurately represents your beliefs. When it comes to miracles recorded in the Bible
 TOTAL%
1) I believe in them.7373.7
2) I do not believe in them.55.1
3) I am not sure because they have not been proven.2121.2
Total99100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1985
Cases: 99
Variables: 40
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: CATI Questionnaires entered at on-campus location
BIBLE from Religion and Diversity Survey, 2002-2003
Which of these statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally.112638.7
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God, but not everything in it should be taken literally.124442.7
3) The Bible is an ancient book of fables, legends, history and moral precepts recorded by humans.47716.4
4) None/Other240.8
5) Don't know361.3
6) Refused20.1
Total2910100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2003
Cases: 2910
Variables: 215
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
GODSWORD from Religion and Diversity Survey, 2002-2003
Do you think God's word is revealed in any other writings besides the Bible, such as the sacred texts used by Muslims or Hindus?
 TOTAL%
1) Yes132545.5
2) No104135.8
3) Don't know52718.1
4) Refused170.6
Total2910100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2003
Cases: 2910
Variables: 215
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
GODTRUTH from Religion and Diversity Survey, 2002-2003
Which of these two statements comes closest to your own view?
 TOTAL%
1) God's truth is fully revealed only in the Bible.51117.6
2) God's truth is revealed in many ways, such as history, culture, nature and tradition.230079.1
3) Other592.0
4) Don't know311.1
5) Refused80.3
Total2910100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2003
Cases: 2910
Variables: 215
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
TRUST from Religion and Diversity Survey, 2002-2003
Which of these two comes closest to your own view?
 TOTAL%
1) I mostly trust the Bible for spiritual guidance.140648.3
2) I mostly trust my own personal experience for spiritual guidance.135246.5
3) Other1123.9
4) Don't know341.2
5) Refused60.2
Total2910100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2003
Cases: 2910
Variables: 215
Scope: U.S. Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Tulsa, Oklahoma Area Survey, 1986
Which one of the following statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) 'The Bible is the actual word of God and it should be taken literally, word-for-word.'8428.0
2) 'The Bible is the inspired word of God, but it was written by men and contains some human errors.'19264.0
3) 'The Bible is an ancient book of history and legends; God had nothing to do with it.'175.7
9) Don't know, no answer72.3
Total300100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1986
Cases: 300
Variables: 73
Scope: Regional Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Dimensions of Religiosity, 1986
The following question deals with religion. Please read the question carefully and select the response which most accurately represents your beliefs. Which of the following best expresses your view of the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) It is God's word and all it says is true.2930.5
2) It was written by men inspired by God, but because the writers were men it contains some human errors.5355.8
3) It is valuable because it was written by wise and good men, but God has nothing to do with it.1212.6
4) The Bible is too old to be of value today.11.1
Total95100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1986
Cases: 95
Variables: 41
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals
MIRACLE from Dimensions of Religiosity, 1986
The following question deals with religion. Please read the question carefully and select the response which most accurately represents your beliefs. When it comes to miracles recorded in the Bible
 TOTAL%
1) I believe in them.6467.4
2) I do not believe in them.1010.5
3) I am not sure because they have not been proven.2122.1
Total95100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1986
Cases: 95
Variables: 41
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals
BIBLE from Religious Fundamentalism Scale, 1986
Please indicate the degree to which you agree or disagree with the following statement - The Bible is the word of God.
 TOTAL%
1) Strongly disagree1111.5
2) Disagree1010.4
3) Undecided1212.5
4) Agree3233.3
5) Strongly Agree3132.3
Total96100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1986
Cases: 96
Variables: 30
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals
STORIES from Religious Fundamentalism Scale, 1986
Please indicate the degree to which you agree or disagree with the following statement - The stories in the Bible about Christ healing sick and lame persons by his touch are fictitious and mythical.
 TOTAL%
1) Strongly disagree3839.6
2) Disagree3031.3
3) Undecided1414.6
4) Agree66.3
5) Strongly Agree88.3
Total96100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1986
Cases: 96
Variables: 30
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1982
Do you believe that every word of the Bible is true?
 TOTAL%
1) No8932.1
2) Yes14853.4
3) Not sure4014.4
Missing7
Total277100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1982
Cases: 284
Variables: 141
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1990
Do you believe every word of the Bible is true?
 TOTAL%
1) Yes20549.9
2) No11828.7
3) Not sure (or qualified Yes)8320.2
4) Don't know51.2
Missing6
Total411100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1990
Cases: 418
Variables: 95
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1991
Do you believe every word of the Bible is true?
 TOTAL%
1) Yes23559.9
2) No, or7819.9
3) Are you not sure (qualified 'Yes')5814.8
4) Don't know215.4
Missing8
Total392100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1991
Cases: 400
Variables: 89
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1994
Which of the following statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word22138.8
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word25945.4
3) The Bible is an ancient book of stories, legends, history and moral principles7212.6
4) Don't know183.2
Missing6
Total570100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1994
Cases: 576
Variables: 80
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
RELGC3 from Dimensions of Religious Commitment, 1986
The Bible tells of many miracles, some credited to Christ and some to other prophets and apostles. Generally speaking, which of the following statements comes closest to what you believe about Biblical miracles? (Choose one answer)
 TOTAL%
1) I'm not sure whether these miracles really happened or not.2023.3
2) I believe miracles are stories and never really happened.910.5
3) I believe the miracles happened, but can be explained by natural causes.1517.4
4) I believe the miracles actually happened just as the Bible says they did.4248.8
Total86100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1986
Cases: 86
Variables: 65
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 2002
'Every word of the bible is true.' Do you:
 TOTAL%
1) Neutral6015.5
2) Strongly Disagree5414.0
3) Disagree6516.8
4) Agree10527.2
5) Strongly Agree10226.4
Missing26
Total386100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 2002
Cases: 412
Variables: 48
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1983
Do you believe that every word of the Bible is true?
 TOTAL%
1) No13235.9
2) Yes20656.0
3) Not sure308.2
Missing5
Total368100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1983
Cases: 373
Variables: 116
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1984
I would like to ask you a few questions about some other religious matters. For the first two questions, please indicate how much you agree or disagree. -- 'Every word of the Bible is true' Do you:
 TOTAL%
1) Strongly agree with this statement9427.0
2) Agree12134.8
3) Feel you are not sure6418.4
4) Disagree5315.2
5) Strongly disagree164.6
Missing3
Total348100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1984
Cases: 351
Variables: 61
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1985
How about the statement, 'Every word of the Bible is true.' Do you:
 TOTAL%
1) Strongly agree11931.6
2) Agree10227.1
3) Half and half133.5
4) Disagree8422.3
5) Strongly disagree4110.9
6) Don't know174.5
Missing3
Total376100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1985
Cases: 379
Variables: 93
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE1 from Middletown Area Study, 1986
Do you believe every word of the Bible is true?
 TOTAL%
1) Yes21356.6
2) No13535.9
3) Not sure287.4
Missing5
Total376100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1986
Cases: 381
Variables: 75
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE2 from Middletown Area Study, 1986
Were you raised to believe that every word of the Bible is true?
 TOTAL%
1) Yes23562.0
2) One parent did61.6
3) No12733.5
4) Not sure112.9
Missing2
Total379100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1986
Cases: 381
Variables: 75
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1987
Do you believe every word of the Bible is true?
 TOTAL%
1) Yes25765.6
2) Not sure5614.3
3) No7920.2
Missing8
Total392100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1987
Cases: 400
Variables: 107
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1988
Do you believe every word of the Bible is true?
 TOTAL%
1) Yes21153.1
2) Not sure5513.9
3) No12431.2
4) Don't know71.8
Missing4
Total397100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1988
Cases: 401
Variables: 90
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1989
Do you believe every word of the Bible is true?
 TOTAL%
1) Yes20952.4
2) No11328.3
3) Are you not sure7017.5
4) Don't know71.8
Missing1
Total399100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1989
Cases: 400
Variables: 128
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1992
Which of the following statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word.14028.6
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word.28458.0
3) The Bible is an ancient book of stories, legends, history and moral principles.5511.2
4) Don't know112.2
Missing15
Total490100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1992
Cases: 505
Variables: 79
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1993
Which of the following statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word.16132.8
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word.23748.3
3) The Bible is an ancient book of stories, legends, history and moral principles.7615.5
4) Don't know173.5
Missing9
Total491100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1993
Cases: 500
Variables: 65
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Middletown Area Study, 1995
Which of the following statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) The Bible is the actual word of God and is to be taken literally, word for word19146.5
2) The Bible is the inspired word of God but not everything in it should be taken literally, word for word15738.2
3) The Bible is an ancient book of stories, legends, history and moral principles5312.9
4) Don't know102.4
Missing11
Total411100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1995
Cases: 422
Variables: 86
Scope: Single Sample
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
BIBLE from Tulsa, Oklahoma Area Survey, 1985
Which one of the following statements comes closest to describing your feelings about the Bible?
 TOTAL%
1) 'The Bible is the actual word of God and it should be taken literally, word for word.'11137.0
2) 'The Bible is the inspired word of God, but it was written by men and contains some human errors.'15852.7
3) 'The Bible is an ancient book of history and legends; God had nothing to do with it.'206.7
9) Don't know, no answer113.7
Total300100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1985
Cases: 300
Variables: 71
Scope: Regional Samples
Frame: U.S. Adults
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Phone
RELGC3 from Dimensions of Religious Commitment, 1987
The Bible tells of many miracles, some credited to Christ and some to other prophets and apostles. Generally speaking, which of the following statements comes closest to what you believe about Biblical miracles? (Choose one answer)
 TOTAL%
1) I'm not sure whether these miracles really happened or not.3131.6
2) I believe miracles are stories and never really happened.1111.2
3) I believe the miracles happened, but can be explained by natural causes.1515.3
4) I believe the miracles actually happened just as the Bible says they did.4141.8
Total98100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1987
Cases: 98
Variables: 65
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other
BIBLE from Religious Fundamentalism Scale, 1987
Please indicate the degree to which you agree or disagree with the following statement: The Bible is the word of God.
 TOTAL%
1) Strongly disagree1314.4
2) Disagree1011.1
3) Undecided1516.7
4) Agree2628.9
5) Strongly Agree2628.9
Total90100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1987
Cases: 90
Variables: 30
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals
STORIES from Religious Fundamentalism Scale, 1987
Please indicate the degree to which you agree or disagree with the following statement: The stories in the Bible about Christ healing sick and lame persons by his touch are fictitious and mythical.
 TOTAL%
1) Strongly disagree2932.2
2) Disagree2628.9
3) Undecided2224.4
4) Agree77.8
5) Strongly Agree66.7
Total90100.0
Survey Details  
Year: 1987
Cases: 90
Variables: 30
Scope: Other: Undergraduates at University of North Carolina
Frame: Other
Sample: Random Samples
Mode: Other: Respondents answered questions via computer terminals

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