The answer is: 66

The standard Christian Bible contains 66 books, the Catholics have an additional 7 books which are mostly historical accounts of events that took place before the time of Jesus and are contained in the Old Testament.

The Bible, a collection of sacred texts, holds a unique status within the cultural and religious landscapes of many societies. While the standard Protestant Bible comprises 66 books, it's interesting to note that the Catholic tradition includes 73 books, reflecting an expansion that captures a broader narrative of God’s interaction with humanity through history.

Each of these 66 books—ranging from Genesis to Revelation—offers distinct literary styles and theological perspectives, covering various genres such as history, poetry, prophecy, and epistles. For example, the oldest parts dating back to around the 10th century BCE are often considered to be the historical narratives of the Old Testament, containing wisdom literature and law codes, while the New Testament penned in the 1st century CE focuses mainly on the life of Jesus and the early church.

Fun fact: Did you know that the Book of Psalms, one of the most beloved and frequently quoted sections of the Bible, is a collection of songs and poems—150 in total—that express a wide range of human emotion? It functions somewhat like a spiritual soundtrack, offering personal devotion while reflecting on the magnificence and mercy one finds in the divine.

In a whole, the books collectively invite readers to explore themes of love, justice, and community, prompting an enduring journey of reflection and personal growth. With each reading, we uncover fresh layers that resonate with both ancient realities and contemporary life.