If you’re wondering how long does it take to read the Bible, you’re not alone. Many people want to know what kind of time commitment they’re looking at before diving into the full text of Scripture. Whether you’re planning to read through the Bible in a year, or simply curious about the reading time, the answer may surprise you.

In this article, we’ll break down the average time it takes to read the entire Bible, how to approach reading it in a year, and tips for staying consistent throughout your reading journey.

The Basic Math: How Long to Read the Bible?

The Bible contains about 780,000 words, depending on the version you use. On average, most people read at a pace of around 200–250 words per minute. So, if you were to read straight through, nonstop, here’s the breakdown:

• Nonstop reading: ~72 hours

• Average reader: ~70–75 hours

That means if you were to sit and read straight through the Bible (without any breaks), it would take you about three full days of reading. However, let’s be real—you probably won’t be reading for 24 hours straight!

How Long Does It Take to Read the Bible in a Year?

One of the most common goals people set is reading the Bible in one year. Fortunately, this is very achievable and doesn’t require hours of reading every day.

To read the Bible in one year, you would need to read about 3–4 chapters a day. Most Bible reading plans are structured to cover this amount, allowing you to read through the Bible steadily over the course of 12 months.

Here’s what that would look like:

• 15 minutes per day → Finish in 1 year

• 10 minutes per day → Finish in about 18 months

• 30 minutes per day → Finish in about 6 months

The key is consistency. By dedicating just a small portion of time each day, you can work your way through the entire Bible without feeling overwhelmed.

How Long Does It Take to Read the Bible Daily?

If you’re aiming to read the Bible daily, here’s an estimated breakdown based on average reading speeds:

• 10 minutes per day → Finish in 18 months

• 15 minutes per day → Finish in 12 months (1 year)

• 30 minutes per day → Finish in 6 months

Even with short daily sessions, you can make substantial progress in reading the Bible. If you’re struggling to find time, try listening to an audio Bible during your commute or while doing chores. It’s a great way to get through your daily reading without setting aside extra time.

How Long Does It Take to Read the Old Testament vs. the New Testament?

Breaking the Bible into two parts can help provide a clearer picture of what you’re dealing with:

• Old Testament: ~55–60 hours of reading

• New Testament: ~18–20 hours of reading

The Old Testament is significantly longer than the New Testament, but both are equally important in understanding the overall narrative of the Bible. Many people start with the New Testament since it focuses on the life of Jesus Christ and the birth of the early Church.

Should You Read the Bible Fast or Slowly?

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to Bible reading. Some parts of the Bible are easier to read quickly (e.g., the historical books like Genesis or Acts), while other sections are more reflective and require slower reading (e.g., Psalms, Proverbs, Isaiah).

It’s important to note that reading slowly doesn’t mean you’re reading poorly. Many people prefer to take their time to reflect on the text, apply it to their lives, or memorize verses. On the other hand, some people enjoy reading through the Bible more quickly to get a broader understanding of the storyline.

It’s completely up to you. The goal should always be engagement, not speed.

How to Read the Bible in a Year (and Stick to It)

For many people, reading the Bible in a year is a fulfilling goal. Here are some simple tips to make sure you stay on track:

1. Use a Bible Reading Plan

There are many reading plans available, including plans for reading through the Bible in a year, plans that focus on specific themes, and plans based on Bible genres (e.g., historical, wisdom, or prophecy).

2. Set a Time Limit

If reading the Bible is new to you, set aside 10–15 minutes each day at a time that works for you—whether that’s in the morning, during lunch, or before bed.

3. Track Your Progress

Many Bible apps allow you to track your progress. You can check off chapters as you complete them and see your progress toward the goal.

4. Don’t Get Discouraged

If you miss a day or two, don’t give up. Pick up where you left off and keep going. Life happens, and God’s grace is more than enough.

Is It Better to Read Fast or Slow?

This entirely depends on your personal preference. Some people are motivated to complete their reading as quickly as possible, while others prefer to read slowly and meditate on the meaning of the text. Both approaches are valid.

For instance:

• Fast reading: Helps you see the overarching story of Scripture

• Slow reading: Allows for deeper reflection and understanding

The key is to keep going, whether you’re reading slowly or quickly. Reading at your own pace helps you build a habit without feeling pressured.

Final Thoughts

So, how long does it take to read the Bible?

For most people, the answer is much quicker than expected. About 15 minutes a day will get you through the Bible in one year. And if you can spare even less time, you’ll still make significant progress. Don’t worry about speed—focus on steady, consistent reading and enjoy the journey of discovering God’s Word.