The answer is: 66

The standard Christian Bible contains 66 books, the Catholics have an additional 7 books which are mostly historical accounts of events that took place before the time of Jesus and are contained in the Old Testament.

Did you know that the Bible's collected books are like a literary buffet from different genres, cultures, and literary styles? When diving into the 66 books of the standard Christian Bible, you come across everything from poetry in Psalms to stories of epic battles in the Book of Joshua. However, if we extend our reach to the Catholic Bible, which lists 73 books, we add gems like Tobit and Judith—unique stories that offer different perspectives on God’s interaction with humanity.

Speaking of the Old Testament, much of these additional books, referred to as the Deuterocanonical or Apocryphal books, contain rich histories before the arrival of Jesus. This era features tales like that of the Maccabees, showcasing the struggles against oppressive forces—including, quite interestingly, a window into the historical setting of Second Temple Judaism, which provides essential context for the New Testament.

The Bible's assembly wasn’t an overnight affair. The books were carefully chosen over centuries—around 1,500 years! The debate has simmered about which texts should make the cut, influenced by theological beliefs, community needs, and evolving interpretations of spirituality. This incredible journey reflects the resilience and adaptability of faith throughout time and places. Whether you're reading from a guidebook for the soul or historical accounts of humanity, the Bible remains a foundational text, deeply entwined with culture and belief across ages.