18 SINGULARITIES OF THE BIBLE.
will be carefully investigated, and its distinguishing excellences will be brought to view; but in the present chapter our attention will be directed to a few prominent singularities which strike the mind without any laborious investigation. They are the peculiarities which produce our first impressions, on looking at the book in the light which is thrown upon it by facts generally admitted, and opinions generally prevalent among men of ordinary information. We shall not stop to inquire at length into the evidence of these facts and opinions. Such thoroughness will be necessary in the chapters following. It is wise to submit our first impressions to subsequent scrutiny for correction or confirmation; but first impressions have their importance as inducements to seek a more thorough acquaintance. So the prominent singularities noticed in the present chapter will, it is hoped, prepare the way for a more earnest and profitable study of the subjects which are discussed in the chapters ensuing. To an intelligent mind they may serve to distinguish the Bible as effectually, and ought as effectually to attract attention to it, as would a blaze of glory miraculously emanating from its material substance.
Section I. Antiquity.
THE BIBLE IS IN GREAT PART THE OLDEST BOOK IN THE WORLD.
The Bible consists of many separate works, written at different times during a period of nearly 1600 years. The Old Testament, which constitutes far the larger part of the volume, was written during the first 1000 years of this period; and the very language in which it was written ceased to be in com-
