This powerful talk explores the historical relationship between African Americans and the Bible, tracing its roots from early European encounters in Africa to the lived experiences of enslaved people in the Americas. It reveals how the Bible was used to justify slavery and racial hierarchy, yet reclaimed by enslaved Africans as a source of hope, resistance, and identity. Despite being denied literacy, they transformed scripture into a dynamic oral tradition through memory, storytelling, and song. This presentation highlights the enduring legacy of African American biblical interpretation and its ongoing role in shaping faith, liberation theology, and cultural resilience.