What is CE in the Bible? This abbreviation stands for “Common Era,” a term used to refer to the years after the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a secular alternative to the traditional Christian dating system, which uses the year of Jesus’ birth as a reference point. While the CE system is widely used in academic and secular contexts, its adoption in religious literature, including the Bible, is a subject of debate and interpretation.
The use of CE in the Bible can be traced back to the early 20th century when scholars and historians began to adopt the Gregorian calendar, which is based on the year of Jesus’ birth. This calendar replaced the Julian calendar, which was the standard before that. The Gregorian calendar was named after Pope Gregory XIII, who introduced it in 1582 to correct the inaccuracies of the Julian calendar.
The term “Common Era” was first used by historian and philosopher Ignatius Donnelly in the late 19th century. It was intended to be a neutral term that would not favor any particular religion or culture. Over time, the CE system gained popularity and is now used by most countries around the world.
In the Bible, the CE system is often used to date events and the lifespans of individuals. However, some Christians argue that using CE in the Bible is inappropriate because it implies a secular perspective on the sacred text. They believe that the Bible should be dated using the Anno Domini (AD) system, which is also known as the Christian Era and refers to the years after the birth of Jesus Christ.
Proponents of the CE system argue that it is a more inclusive and neutral way to refer to the years after Jesus’ birth. They believe that using CE can help to bridge the gap between secular and religious dating systems, making it easier for people from different backgrounds to understand historical events and timelines.
Despite the debate, the use of CE in the Bible is becoming more common, especially in academic and scholarly publications. However, it is important to note that the Bible itself does not contain the CE abbreviation. Instead, it is a term used by translators and editors to provide context and clarity for readers.
In conclusion, what is CE in the Bible is a secular dating system that refers to the years after the birth of Jesus Christ. While some Christians may argue against its use, the CE system is gaining acceptance in academic and secular contexts. As the debate continues, it is crucial to understand the purpose and implications of using CE in the Bible and other religious texts.
