How to Cite the Bible in AMA (11th edition)
Learn how to cite the Bible, scripture, and other sacred texts in AMA format (11th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
AMA Reference List Format
Here is the standard AMA format for citing the Bible in your reference list:
Cited in the text, not the reference list: John 3:16 (New Revised Standard Version).
AMA Example for the Bible
A complete AMA reference for the Bible, formatted by the official AMA CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
1. The Holy Bible, New Revised Standard Version. Meridian Bibles; 1989.
Matching in-text citation: 1
AMA In-Text Citation
Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:
Parenthetical
John 3:16 (New Revised Standard Version)
Narrative
John 3:16 (NRSV) states...
Key AMA Formatting Rules
- AMA cites the Bible in the running text, not the reference list.
- Give the book, chapter, and verse with a colon (e.g., John 3:16) — never a page number.
- Name the version in parentheses on first mention (e.g., New Revised Standard Version).
- Use the standard abbreviations for the books of the Bible.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your Bible.
- Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the AMA (11th edition) template shown above.
- Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
- Add to your reference list: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
- Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match AMA requirements.
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