A Bible is a personal item that means so
much to the owner. He or she often studies the Bible for many hours on end
every other day. Hence, it is important to protect it against wear and tear
that is caused by regular use. If you are looking for a suitable Bible cover to safeguard
your Bible from external elements like heat, water, and debris, here is why a
leather Bible cover is highly recommended.
Approved
by God Himself
The first recorded instance of using
leather as a covering was when Adam and Eve’s clothing that is plant-based was
replaced by God Himself with those made of animal skins. The clothing made out
of plants just did not cut it. Leather was also included in God’s plans for the
Tabernacle – some of the coverings for His movable worship place also made use
of animal skins. Today, the best way to protect God’s Word, the Bible is by
using real leather. It is a by-product of the food industry which is resistant
to moisture and highly durable while looking aesthetically pleasing. Leather
also feels soft in your hands so you would be motivated to study God’s Word
over and over again.
Leather
Simply Works
Leather also simply looks great on your
bookshelf. Through proper upkeep, leather can last for many centuries to come.
There are special collections in libraries with leather book covers that are
properly maintained by librarians. They are conditioned regularly by using a
special solution to keep the leather
book covers in a tip-top condition. If you use your Bible often, there is
no need for the special conditioner as your hands contain natural oils that
will help maintain the fibers of the Bible cover.
What
Does Not Work
For many years, an increasing number of
manufacturers have been making use of leather substitutes that are much more
cost-effective. Over the previous couple of centuries, you may have even seen
plain cloth hardcovers, imitation leather cardboard hardcovers, imitation
leather cloth hardcovers, and others. These are plant-based hardcovers that can
easily break down over time, especially if used on the regular. You will see
tears and scuffs which can be unsightly. There is also the popular bonded
leather which is made from 70% grounded leather scraps mixed with a bonding
agent. This is not something we would recommend to cover God’s Word. Bonded
leather can fall apart easily, and cause damage to your Bible
Bookbinding
Leathers
Bookbinding leathers are made of animal
hides which are a natural product. You may see a few spots and wrinkles on
these leathers which show that they are indeed real. Some of these leathers may
be imprinted with grains to improve their appearance. But all leathers go
through some kind of manipulation so they look tanned. This process also
produces leather in various tempers, colors, finishes, and styles to suit your
personal taste preferences.
Other
Leathers
Other leathers that are less common include
skins from alligator, ostrich, lamb, bison, sheep, and deer. These are
alternatives that may at times be too thin, too soft, or too coarse. However,
they are much more affordable as compared to real leather.
