E-Sword
E-Sword is a scriptural suite in the form of a computer program. It is written for computers running the Microsoft Windows operating system. A version is also available through iTunes for the iPad, and E-Sword can also be used on computers running Macintosh or Linux operating systems through CrossOver (by CodeWeaver). As of January 2012, E-Sword has been downloaded 20 million times.[1]
The authour of E-Sword, Rick Meyers, cites Matthew 10:8 for his release of the software free of charge (as freeware).[2]
Contents
Features
The E-Sword installer contains the main program bundled with the King James Version with Strong's Numbers and Strong's Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries. A built-in system allows easy downloading of additional modules from within the program. The program features simultaneous or independent viewing of the Bible, various commentaries, various dictionaries, and a notes module. A graphics viewer and STEP reader are also included. The program can also line up multiple translations of the same passage to enable easy comparison. A full list of features is available on the web site.[3]
Bibles
Bible translations are available in multiple languages. Many are available free of charge.
English Translations
Many versions of the English-language Bible are available. The King James Version is installed by default. Several old versions are available, including a 1611 King James Version, a 1568 Bishop's Bible, and the Geneva Bible. More current free translations include (among others):
- American Standard Version
- Douay-Rheims Bible
- English Standard Version
- Good News Bible
- God's Word
- Jewish Publication Society translation of 1917
- Modern king James Version
Scholarly Interest
Several Bible translations of interest to scholars are also available. These include the Vulgate, Textus Receptus, and the Hebrew Old Testament.
Additional Features
Matthew Henry's Commentary, John Gill's commentary, and many other classic and modern commentaries are available within the E-Sword system. Bible dictionaries are also easily utilized. A dictionary, a commentary, and a Bible translation can easily be viewed at the same time to aid study.
A graphics viewer simplifies viewing of topical images from a variety of sources. Daily devotions from several sources can be accessed. A STEP reader enables reading of many texts, including:
- Achieving Faith by J. G. Morrison
- Entire Sanctification Explained by C. W. Ruth
- Sketches of Church History by Rev. J. C. Robertson
The software also includes access to reference books in electronic form, including Tortured for Christ by Pastor Richard Wurmbrand.
Pay modules
Several add-ons for E-Sword require payment. The text of these particular add-ons is owned by corporations still retaining copyright. An example is the New American Standard Bible, which is controlled by the Lockman Foundation. These modules require a one-time purchase to access, but E-Sword and the majority of its modules are free.
References