On this page
Updated . Example details checked against Oxford University Press, 4th edition, 2010, edited by Michael D. Coogan.
The Chicago format
Pattern
Book chapter:verse (Version).
- Notes or parentheses in the text, not the bibliography.
- Version in parentheses the first time, or its abbreviation: (NRSV).
- Abbreviations for books in notes and parentheses: 1 Cor., Gen., Matt. Chicago gives a traditional set and a shorter set (1 Co, Gn, Mt); pick one and keep it.
- Chapter and verse with a colon: 13:4–7, with an en dash for a range.
A real example
Footnote (no bibliography entry)
1 Cor. 13:4–7 (New Revised Standard Version).
When details are missing
- Several versions: name the version each time it changes.
- Running text: spell the book out in your sentences: In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul writes...
Common mistakes
- A bibliography entry by habit. Chicago leaves scripture to the notes unless your instructor asks.
- Page numbers. Cite chapter and verse.
- Abbreviating in your sentences. Abbreviations belong in notes and parentheses.
Or let Format do it.
Choose Sacred text and fill in the edition, version, editors and publisher. Type the book, chapter and verse when you press Cite. Format writes the notes in Chicago, exactly as shown above, and builds the bibliography page when you export to Word or PDF. Chicago is part of Pro, $4 a month or $29 a year; MLA and APA are free.
Questions
What if my instructor wants it listed?
Format’s Chicago export can list scripture in the bibliography when you turn that on.
Can I cite in the text instead of a note?
Yes: (1 Cor. 13:4–7 NRSV).
More citation guides
The same source in other styles
Similar sources in Chicago
Every source kind is on the Chicago page, and every style is on How to cite.