Heart Shield Bible — In the tumultuous times of World War II, soldiers clung to symbols of faith and hope as they faced the uncertainties of battle. Among these symbols was a unique edition of the New Testament, known as the “Heart Shield Bible.” These Bibles, often issued to American soldiers, came with a metal cover designed to be carried in a shirt pocket over the heart. #HeartShieldBible
Heart Shield Bible
The Heart Shield Bibles were manufactured by the National Bible Press. These Bibles were produced during World War II and featured a metal cover designed to provide some protection for soldiers in combat, thus earning the name “Heart Shield Bible.” The idea was that the metal cover could help shield the soldier’s heart from bullets, combining both spiritual and physical protection.
My wife and I recently got to see one on display and got to tap the cover at The Mobile Bible Exhibit.
The President’s Message
Included within the pages of these metal-covered Bibles was a poignant message from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. He encouraged the reading of the Bible to all armed forces, highlighting it as a source of wisdom, counsel, and inspiration. This personal letter from the President served not only as a moral booster but also as a reminder of the nation’s prayers and support for its troops.
The Life-Saving Metal Cover
The metal cover of the Heart Shield Bible was more than just a spiritual armor; it was advertised as a physical one too. There are accounts of these Bibles deflecting bullets and shrapnel, saving soldiers’ lives in combat. While not officially part of military equipment, the metal cover provided both a sense of divine protection and a very real physical shield.
Collectible and Historic
Today, the Heart Shield Bible is a collectible item, a reminder of the past and the sacrifices made by those who served. They can be found in museums, private collections, and sometimes for sale on platforms like eBay. Each Bible tells a story, not just of the global conflict, but of the individual soldier who carried it.
Two museums you can see one on display are at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC and the traveling Mobile Bible Exhibit.
These special Bible did carry a variety of messages about keeping them safe, Lord being with them and more. It was mostly gold plated, today if one is still around, it has lost most of its gold plating to expose the steel.
Conclusion
The metal cover Bibles of WWII embody the intersection of faith, patriotism, and survival. They represent the resilience of the human spirit and the power of belief to carry individuals through the darkest of times. As we reflect on these artifacts of history, we are reminded of the enduring strength found in faith and the profound impact of a simple message from a President to his troops.
Sources:
- Collections | Museum of the Bible
- Heart Shield Bibles | Museum of the Bible
- Soldier’s Pocket Bible – National Museum of American History
- Collections | Museum of the Bible
- National Museum of American History
- A powerful exhortation from FDR in a WWII Bible given to soldiers – Aleteia
- A powerful exhortation from FDR in a WWII Bible given to soldiers – Aleteia
- Heartfelt Letter from FDR to U.S. Troops In Vintage Bible Goes Viral
- A U.S. President Commends Reading the Bible—Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882
- Material Drives on the World War II Home Front – U.S. National Park Service
Check out Courageous Christian Father’s Wish list on Amazon where you can purchase and this items sent directly to him and they will be used for the ministry.
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