No need for separate class to teach Bible

Is it the responsibility of the state or of parents to ensure that children have an understanding of the Bible?

Many would say it is parents who should have this role in their children's lives, just as they need to teach responsibility and ethical behavior and all the other things that turn a child into a responsible adult.

Yet, a committee of the Arizona Legislature has decided the public schools need to have a role in teaching students about the Bible. House Bill 2563 — easily approved Monday by the House Education Committee — would let high schools offer an elective course in the Bible to students.

The rationale for the course makes some sense. The bill's sponsor, Rep. Terry Proud, R-Tucson, points out that there are biblical references in literature and elsewhere that are difficult to understand without an understanding of the Bible.

She is correct about that, but she is wrong that it therefore means a separate course on the Bible is necessary.

In reality, there are references to many religions — not just Christianity — in literature, art and culture that need to be understood by students. That understanding can be provided by teachers in an integrated way in courses as these elements are discussed without reliance on a separate course that focuses solely on the Bible.

While it is true that the course would be optional, it opens a door to charges of promotion of a particular religious view in schools and that door needs to stay shut. There are ways to increase understanding of religion in school courses without focusing on one religion or one religious document.

Parents have various religious beliefs. Let them impart those beliefs to their children in their own way.