Greetings in the precious name of Jesus! It is a true joy to have you here. It is wonderful that you are asking this heartfelt question. If you’re asking, how long would it take to read the whole bible, you are about to start a life-changing journey. You are at the start of an adventure with God. It will enrich your soul and make your faith deeper than you can imagine.
Starting a quest to read the Holy Bible from the beginning to the end is a beautiful goal. It is much more than just reading a book. It is about setting aside time to listen to God’s voice. It is a time to learn from His wisdom and feel the truth of His love letter to you.
In this guide, we will walk through this question together. We will not focus on speed. Instead, we will focus on the joyful process of getting closer to God. We will look at the hours it takes and different reading speeds. We will also look at simple, spirit-led advice to make this journey a blessing. Let’s begin with our hearts open to the Holy Spirit.
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Why Should a Christian Read the Entire Bible?
Before we talk about hours and minutes, let’s think about the “why.” In our busy American lives, it can seem hard to commit to such a large book. But the spiritual treasures waiting for you are priceless and will last forever.
First, the Bible is God’s own Word. It is the main way He has chosen to show Himself to us. In its pages, we see the big story of His plan to save all people. We meet a God who is holy, fair, merciful, and full of love. Reading the whole story helps you understand His full character. You will see the deep love that led Jesus to the cross for us.
Also, God’s Word is our guide for life. As 2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us, “All Scripture is God-breathed.” It is useful for teaching, for correcting, and for training in how to live right. This way, the servant of God has all they need for every good work. The Bible is not just a history book; it is alive and active. It is our spiritual food. It is our source of wisdom for hard choices and our comfort when we are sad. It is the lamp that lights our path. Building your life on the whole Word of God gives you a strength the world cannot offer.
In the end, this journey is about your relationship with God. You spend time with a loved one to know them better. In the same way, spending time in the Bible brings you closer to your Heavenly Father. It changes your heart and renews your mind. It lines up your will with His perfect plans for you. It is a journey with rewards that last forever.
So, Exactly How Long Would It Take to Read the Whole Bible?
Let’s get to the simple answer you are looking for. We all read at different speeds, but we can make a good guess.
On average, for a normal reader, the simple answer to how long would it take to read the whole bible is about 75 hours.
Seventy-five hours might seem like a lot. But let’s break it down into a daily task. When you see it this way, it becomes very easy and inspiring!
How Long Would It Take to Read the Whole Bible in a Year?
This is the most popular goal for many believers. It creates a nice daily habit of being in the Word.
- Time per day: To read the whole Bible in 365 days, you only need to read for about 12 to 15 minutes each day.
- To think about: That’s less time than one TV show. It is less time than you might spend on the news or on a coffee break. This small daily choice gives great spiritual rewards.
How Long Would It Take to Read the Whole Bible in 90 Days?
Some people have more time. Some may want a deep “spiritual bootcamp.” For them, reading the Bible in three months is a powerful choice.
- Time per day: This takes about 45 to 50 minutes of reading each day.
- To think about: This strong focus helps the big themes of the Bible come alive in a special way. It is a sprint that can refocus your heart and mind on God.
What Is a Good Pace for Reading the Bible in 6 Months?
This is a great middle choice. It allows for a steady pace that is faster than a year. It gives you more time each day to think and pray about what you read.
- Time per day: You would need to set aside about 25 minutes each day.
- To think about: This pace is great for those who want to move through the text at a good speed. It still gives plenty of time for writing in a journal or for deeper study.
This daily plan makes the big question of how long would it take to read the whole bible feel much easier. The key is to find the rhythm God has for you in this season of your life.
What Factors Change How Long Would It Take to Read the Whole Bible?
While 75 hours is a good average, some things can change your personal reading time. It is helpful to think about these as you set your goals.
Does My Personal Reading Speed Affect the Time?
This is the clearest factor. Some of us are fast readers. We can take in words quickly. Others read more slowly. They like to enjoy each word. There is no “better” way. The goal is to understand and connect, not to be fast. God will meet you at your own pace.
How Much Longer Does It Take to Read the Bible Aloud?
Have you ever tried reading the Bible out loud? It is a powerful spiritual habit. Hearing the Word spoken uses your senses in a new way and can help you focus. But we speak more slowly than we read in our heads.
- Reading Aloud Time: A good guess for reading the whole Bible out loud is closer to 100 hours.
- Daily Time (1 Year): This breaks down to about 16-18 minutes a day. It is a beautiful habit, and great for families to do together.
Is Listening to an Audio Bible Faster or Slower?
In our busy American lives, audio Bibles are a great gift. You can listen while you drive, exercise, or do chores. This is a great way to use your time to fill your mind with God’s truth.
- Listening Time: Most audio Bibles are about 75 hours long. This is the same as the average silent reading time.
- Easy to Find: Apps like YouVersion offer many audio versions for free. This makes it easy to listen to God’s Word anywhere.
Thinking about how long would it take to read the whole bible is less about time and more about your connection with God. Choose the way that helps you best connect with Him each day.
Does My Bible Translation Affect How Long It Takes to Read?
This is a very good question. The Bible version you choose can make a small difference in your reading time.
- Word-for-Word Versions (like KJV, NASB, ESV): These versions stay very close to the original Hebrew and Greek words and sentences. They are great for deep study. But their complex language can sometimes slow down your reading speed.
- Thought-for-Thought Versions (like NIV, NLT): These versions focus on sharing the original meaning in simple, modern English. They are often very smooth and easy to read. This might make your reading pace a little faster.
The Main Point: The time difference is probably small. It might add just a few minutes to your daily reading. The most important thing is to choose a version that is true to the Bible and clear to you. If you struggle with the words in one version, do not be afraid to try another. The goal is to understand God’s message to you.
What Are the Spiritual Benefits of Reading the Whole Bible?
The real blessing is not just knowing the time it takes. The blessing is in how the journey changes you. Sticking to this habit brings much spiritual good.
How Does Reading the Bible Help Me Understand God’s Character?
When you only read small parts, you can get a broken view of God. But when you read the whole story, you see His full character. You see His holiness in Leviticus. You see His faithfulness when Israel turns away. You see His wisdom in Proverbs and His love for justice in the prophets. You see His final love in the Gospels. You will end with a more full, true, and amazing view of who God is.
Can I See Jesus in the Old Testament by Reading the Whole Bible?
Jesus Himself said that all of Scripture points to Him (Luke 24:27). When you read the whole Bible, the Holy Spirit will open your eyes to this truth. You will see hints of the cross in the Old Testament. You will see promises of the Savior in Isaiah. You will see the story of God’s rescue plan in every book. The whole Bible will point to the glory and saving work of Jesus Christ.
How Will Reading the Entire Bible Strengthen My Faith?
Faith comes from hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17). The more you are in the Bible, the more your faith will grow. God’s promises will become more real to you. His faithfulness in the past will give you hope for your future. The Word of God will be the strong anchor for your soul in life’s storms. Many people are surprised when they learn how long would it take to read the whole bible in just a year. They find their faith changed by the daily habit.
What Reading Plans Affect How Long Would It Take to Read the Whole Bible?
A good plan is like a map for your trip. It removes the daily question of “What should I read?” It gives you a clear path. Praise God, there are many great plans to use!
What Is a Straight-Through Bible Reading Plan?
This is the simplest way. You start with Genesis 1 and read every chapter in order until you finish Revelation. It lets you see the Bible’s story as it is laid out.
What Is a Chronological Bible Reading Plan?
This popular plan puts the Bible in the order of history. For example, you’ll read David’s Psalms while you read about his life in 1 & 2 Samuel. This gives great context and helps the Bible’s world come alive.
What Is a Blended or Thematic Bible Reading Plan?
Many plans offer a mix of readings each day. You might read from the Old Testament, the New Testament, a Psalm, and a Proverb. This gives nice variety and a full spiritual meal. A great example is the Bible in One Year plan, which also has notes to read.
How Can I Stay Motivated to Read the Bible Every Day?
Life is full of things that pull for our attention. There will be days you feel tired or not inspired. That is normal. Here are a few tips to help you keep going with joy.
1. Pray Before You Read: This is the most key step. Start each reading time by asking the Holy Spirit to teach you. A simple prayer like, “Father, thank you for your Word. Open my eyes to see you and my heart to receive your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen,” turns your reading from a task into a joy.
2. Find a Partner: Share your goal with a friend, spouse, or someone in your small group. A partner can give you support and prayer. It is also a joy to share what you are learning.
3. Give Yourself Grace: The enemy wants you to miss a day, feel bad, and then give up. Do not fall for that! If you get behind, just start again where you left off. This is a journey of grace, not rules. God’s mercy is new every morning.
4. Keep a Simple Journal: You do not need to be a great writer. Just write down a verse that you liked, a question you have, or how you felt God speak to you. This journal will become a sweet memory of God’s faithfulness in your life.
What Is the Most Important Thing to Remember for How Long Would It Take to Read the Whole Bible?
My dear friend, I pray you feel ready and hopeful. The question of how long would it take to read the whole bible is a starting point for a great adventure of faith. It is an invitation from God to know Him more.
Please, do not let the numbers scare you. Let them inspire you! Let the idea of spending just 15 minutes a day with your Creator fill you with joy. In the end, how long would it take to read the whole bible is up to you and the pace God leads you to.
It does not matter if it takes you 90 days or two years. Every moment you spend in God’s Word is a seed planted for eternity. It will change you, strengthen you, comfort you, and guide you.
So, say a prayer, pick a plan, and open the pages of the best book ever written. A beautiful journey with your Savior is waiting. May the Lord bless you and keep you as you seek Him.
FAQ – How Long Would It Take to Read the Whole Bible

What are the spiritual benefits of reading the Bible regularly?
Regular Bible reading strengthens faith, deepens understanding of God’s character, and reveals Christ throughout Scripture. It encourages spiritual growth, provides comfort, guides decisions, and helps you grow closer to God, transforming your heart and renewing your mind.
How does choosing different Bible reading plans affect the overall time?
Different reading plans can influence how quickly you complete the Bible. Straight-through plans might take a year, while more intensive plans like a 90-day read require about 45 to 50 minutes daily. The choice depends on your schedule and spiritual goals.
What is a practical daily timeframe to read the Bible in one year?
To read the Bible in one year, you should aim to spend about 12 to 15 minutes each day reading. This small daily commitment allows you to gradually progress through the scriptures while maintaining time for reflection and prayer.
How long does it typically take to read the whole Bible?
On average, it takes about 75 hours for a normal reader to read the entire Bible, depending on their reading speed. This can be broken down into daily reading goals, making it a manageable and enriching spiritual practice.
Why is reading the entire Bible important for a Christian?
Reading the entire Bible is important because it reveals God’s full character, His love, mercy, justice, and plan for salvation. It helps believers build a deeper relationship with God, understand His will, and see how His promises unfold throughout the scriptures.