by Michael Drosnin
Faced with adversity, the faithful sometimes open the family Bible at random and point to a verse they can interpret as personal guidance. But now it seems the Scriptures' prophetic powers may have global implications for believers willing to replace the moving finger with a zippy electronic mouse.
In his controversial new book, former Washington Post reporter Drosnin relates how his initial skepticism gave way to belief that an Israeli mathematician had devised an astonishing computer program. His system uncovered linked groups of letters concealed in biblical texts that spell out, Drosnin claims, eerily accurate predictions, including the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin, the Oklahoma City bombing and the elections of Bill Clinton and Benjamin Netanyahu.
Drosnin's critics, not surprisingly, are legion. Among them are the researchers upon whose work the book is based. Recently they announced they do not support The Bible Code, saying "No distinction is made between statistically valid codes and accidental appearances, which can be found in any book." With charts resembling crossword puzzles, The Bible Code will attract readers who love "proof" of pyramid magic and UFO visitations. (Simon & Schuster, $25)
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