FAQs
How do I report a bug in the software?
Please send an e-mail and let me know the exact sequence of events that lead to the error.
Can a person without software development skills participate in SwordBible development?
There are several ways to contribute. The documentation for the program is always in the need of updating. If you have used certain features of SwordBible, you can create a help topic explaining them. Another way to contribute is to test the software thoroughly to find any bugs. You can also contribute by designing icons/graphics for the program if you are gifted in the visual arts.
How much does SwordBible cost? Under what kind of license is SwordBible distributed?
SwordBible is a completely free software (even for commercial use) distributed under GNU GPL. Software under GNU GPL license falls within a somewhat similar category and is referred to as free software. As stressed by the FSF (Free Software Foundation), free in this context goes beyond the “no payment” concept – it’s about the freedom to use, share, study and modify a piece of software. For this to be possible, the source code for that software must be made freely available, which also applies to modified and shared (distributed) versions.
It’s worth noting that the GPL clearly states that entities that modify or distribute original or derivate software may charge any amount of money for this service. However, this rarely happens and almost every product licensed under the GPL can be obtained without paying any kind of fee.
Free software may be used at no cost for both personal and commercial purposes. However, if a person or company creates a derived software product by modifying the original source code and wishes to distribute the result, it must be done under the same free software terms, including the source code modifications.
Is there a version of this software available for Pocket PC/ Palm OS/ Mac ?
Sorry, currently SwordBible is only available for the windows platform.
Can SwordBible be run from a USB drive?
Yes, you can install the portable version of the software on a USB/flash/thumb drive.
Why is the New International Version (NIV) not available for download?
NIV and TNIV texts are copyrighted by International Bible Society and we do not have the permission to distribute them. According to the NIV and TNIV permission guidelines: “The NIV & TNIV text may be quoted in any form (written, visual, electronic, or audio), up to and inclusive of five hundred (500) verses or less without written permission, providing the verses quoted do not amount to a complete book of the Bible, nor do verses quoted account for 25 percent (25%) or more of the total text of the work in which they are quoted, and the verses are not being quoted in a commentary or other Biblical reference work. This permission is contingent upon an appropriate copyright acknowledgment.” (Read more here)
Where are the deuterocanonical books and the apocrypha?
Sword does not currently support any books other than the 66 OT/NT protocanonical books. The reason is technical, not theological. The SWORD Project is ecumenical, benefiting from the labor of workers from a broad gamut of Christian churches. Work is currently underway to support a broader canon.
How do I convert modules from other Bible software (e.g. e-Sword, BibleWorks, or OLB) into Sword modules?
The SWORD Project does not support the conversion of texts from other Bible software vendors. By that, we mean that we neither encourage you or others to convert material from other software because it may violate licensing or copyright restrictions. Nor can we provide any assistance to those who choose to convert such material.
Is there any documentation available? How can I get help with using the software?
The documentation is being updated for the latest version of the program, please check back periodically. In the meantime, feel free to ask for help using e-mail
How do I uninstall?
The SWORD Project for Windows has an uninstaller which should be in the same place as the program. You can also just delete the folder and possible menu entries.
Can I sell advertising on your website?
Yes, feel free to make an offer.
Will you exchange links? Will you allow me to link to your website in exchange for linking mine on yours?
Feel free to link to this website. We cannot guarantee a link to your website in exchange. Feel free to inquire however.