The Society of Biblical Literature

The Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) supports the critical investigation of the Bible. Founded in 1880, the SBL is a member of the American Council of Learned Societies. A simple, yet comprehensive statement encompasses the Society's aspirations: to foster biblical scholarship. To that end, the Society provides, through its various meetings and publications, conversation partners and resources for those interested in the religions, history, literature, and culture of the ancient Near Eastern world. Over 7,000 members from every continent provide a forum to test ideas and advance the understanding of the Bible's role in the public arena.