I've been writing about rules of conduct, and now I've come to the mother lode of rules: the book of Leviticus. I had never read Leviticus, but I had certainly heard about the strictures against wearing clothing woven of two different fibers, such as cotton and linen, and the dietary rules and the often quoted rules on sexual activity. Before writing this article, it seemed sensible to read the book. Many of the rules make sense, although the punishments for transgressions are draconian. Take chapter 19, verses 15 to 18, for example. [We will now pause for you to find your Bible.] Good advice on administering justice and not slandering your father's kin (but what about your mother's kin?).
We have a book in Plymouth Library titled The year of living biblically: one man's humble quest to follow the Bible as literally as possible by A J Jacobs (220 JAC). Jacobs spent a year annoying his wife and friends while attempting to live according to as many of the biblical strictures as possible. Most, of course came from Leviticus. He also gets into some other literal interpretations of the Bible as when he visits a Creationist theme park. (Next time you are in Kentucky, you could go to the Creation Museum in Petersburg and Ark Encounter in Williamstown - or not.) I found The year of living biblically to be entertaining and informative. Thou shall check it out when next thou is at Plymouth. (Or if thou doesn't want to wait that long, thou can get it through the mail.)
I would also recommend The sins of Scripture: Exposing the Bible's texts of hate to reveal the love of God by John Shelby Spong (220.6 SPO). Spong looks at passages in the Bible which are routinely used to justify acts against certain segments of the population and against the earth itself. Plymouth's copy of this book has been missing for a number of years so unless it is returned soon, you'll have to check it out of some other library.
This suggests to me a handy rule for libraries: Thou shall return library books. Look around your house and car for any errant library books and bring them back if you will be in the vicinity - or mail them to Plymouth Church Library, 1217 Sixth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101 using the Post Office's library rate.