The Bible: A History

Some believe that the universe was created in a single stroke by God. Others, educated in the sciences, see that it emerged in the wake of the Big Bang. Is there common ground between these views? Host Howard Jacobson seeks common ground in which both the sciences and religion could be considered right.

Of all the characters in the bible, Abraham is the most predominant. From him the world's three largest religions arose: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. But rather than setting a foundation for connection amongst them, each religion claims Abraham as their own. Journalist Rageh Omaar wants to discover who Abraham was, and if he holds the key to peace among religions.

The Ten Commandments, handed down to Moses by God, shaped Christianity and still influence the world today. But some believe that they are nothing but an outdated burden. Politician and author Ann Widdecombe researches the history and interpretations of these biblical principles. Would society be improved if they were more strictly followed today or even completely abolished?

The Bible is considered sexist, and even misogynist, by some scholars. But how accurate is that assumption? Historian and broadcaster Bettany Hughes digs deep into the Good Book to see if this theory holds up. Along the way she discovers a dazzling cast of feisty women including warriors, adulterous wives, fierce mothers and legendary queens who speak volumes about their world, and our own.

The figure of Jesus Christ is a complex and often misunderstood one. His works and teachings are used to promote a whole host of ideologies. Irish politician Gerry Adams was the leader of Sinn Fein, the political group associated with the IRA. He investigates the life and death of Jesus against the backdrop of his own controversial life and career. Could Jesus be considered a freedom fighter?

St. Paul did more to shape the moral and ethical direction of the ancient world than anyone else. He was far ahead of his time, suggesting that equality and progressive change in society was better for mankind. Historian Tom Holland discusses the relevancy of Paul's ideas then and now and asks why his controversial teachings are often quoted by those opposed to homosexuality and women priests.

The Book of Revelations is known to be a grim, detailed description of the end of the world. Some believe it was designed to terrify the masses into piety. In his childhood, theologian Dr. Robert Beckford was taught that it was the prophetic truth. But, as he now investigates, could it actually be a message of hope telling us we can create heaven on Earth?