In March of 2008, then-Senator Barack Obama spoke of “A More Perfect Union” in a speech at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. In that speech, he used the stories of David and Goliath, Moses and Pharaoh, the Christians in the lion’s den, and Ezekiel’s field of dry bones to bring life to his message.

Whatever we may think of Obama’s speech—or his politics—the inclusion of Bible references is notable. How many children in school today would recognize those allusions? Yet, in the 21st century, cultural literacy remains a cornerstone of a well-rounded education, enabling us to navigate and understand the rich tapestry of human experience. Bible stories, in particular, stand out for their profound influence on Western civilization. Despite the increasing secularization of society, these stories are essential for cultural literacy in the United States, providing historical context, moral frameworks, and a shared cultural reference point.

The Bible has been a foundational text for Western literature, art, and history for centuries. Its narratives, characters, and themes have deeply influenced countless works of literature. Dante’s Divine Comedy and John Milton’s Paradise Lost are two obvious examples. Shakespeare’s plays are replete with biblical allusions and direct Bible quotations. But works as disparate as Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Young Goodman Brown, and Madeline L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time have Christian themes embedded in their stories.

Understanding these classic (and modern) works requires familiarity with the Bible, as the biblical stories provide the background against which these masterpieces are set. Without basic biblical literacy, much of the richness and intricacy of these works can be lost.

Beyond literature, the Bible has played a pivotal role in shaping historical events and movements. The Reformation, a major turning point in Western history, was driven by a debate around biblical texts and a call for their translation into vernacular languages. This movement transformed the religious landscape and helped democratize knowledge, laying the groundwork for modern education and literacy.

The Bible’s influence is also evident in our nation’s founding documents. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution reflect principles rooted in biblical ethics. Concepts of justice, equality, and liberty resonate with biblical teachings, underscoring the text’s lasting impact on American values and governance.

As then-Senator Obama’s speech demonstrates, biblical references are often employed in the public discourse to evoke moral authority and resonate with a broad audience. Recognizing these references allows us, as the audience, to critically engage with the content and appreciate the rhetorical strategies employed.

Biblical ideas also remain relevant in business, law, and governance. Ethical decision-making in these fields often draws on principles found in biblical teachings. For example, the concept of “doing unto others as you would have them do unto you” is a cornerstone of ethical business practices and legal fairness.

Similarly, in American society, Bible stories serve as a common cultural reference point, enriching communication and comprehension. In their book The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, E.D. Hirsh Jr., Joseph F. Kett, and James Trefil name important Bible stories and ideas all Americans must know, including Jesus’ parables and the stories of Abraham, Job, Jeremiah, and many others. This book also includes concepts like the “road to Damascus” and “the olive branch.” The authors point out that the phrases “having a cross to bear” and “to wash one’s hands of it” both come from Christ’s crucifixion. “No one in the English-speaking world,” they write, “can be considered literate without a basic knowledge of the Bible.”

Critics may argue that promoting Bible stories in a secular and pluralistic society undermines the principle of separation of church and state. However, the goal of cultural literacy is not to endorse a particular religion but to recognize and understand the cultural and historical significance of these stories. By engaging with Bible stories, Americans develop a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage that has shaped American society and its traditions.

Even in our secular society, the Bible remains the single most influential and most widely known book. As Hirsh, Kett, and Trefil note, “the Bible is embedded in our thought and our language.” No American citizen can be truly well-educated without it.

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