Sometimes I'm asked to recommend a Bible, one that provides an accurate translation along with helpful annotations that illuminate the complexities of the stories and text.
I am no biblical scholar, so I don't mean to offer any definitive opinion. However, I can say that for New Testament reading, I really like the Ignatius Catholic Study Bible, from Ignatius Press. It's helpful for private study but also for communal settings. It's particularly suitable for the classroom, as students can easily gain a sense of the richness and "layeredness" of the New Testament (there is no complete Old Testament study Bible yet, but I believe there is one in the works). The Ignatius Study Bible provides word studies, annotations, cross-references, and short sections that elaborate upon words or themes.
I also recommend the New Oxford Annotated Bible, which (like the Ignatius Press New Testament) is filled with annotations, historical notes, maps, and other helpful resources.
