The biblical texts are the blood coursing in the veins of theology. Studying theology means studying the Bible thoroughly. This introduction provides the basic information for the preliminary exams in Germany in a didactic skilful way. But as a theological textbook this introduction goes further: It connects the basic information with their theological significance. This helps learning. But provides also a good starting point for advanced theological studies. Besides some historical and exegetical information, the perspective of the book is one of the history of the impact of Biblical texts: How the Old Testament is seen in the New and in Jewish and Christian tradition - and gives even some glimpses into the Quranic. Particular attention is paid to the reception in art, literature, music and movies. The aim is at understanding the Bible as the fundamental textbook of our western culture.