Read the Bible or Study the Bible?

Curiosity is a dominant character trait in my personality. 

Countless times my mother has said to me, "Curiosity killed the cat." At thirteen, I decided that a clever reply would be," But satisfaction brought it back." 

Mom shakes her head when I say this, but it hasn't stopped my interest in seeking answers. Uncovering "the rest of the story" drives many of my personal inquiries for information.

My curiosity was aroused because ...
I'd heard, or read, from several sources that one should study the Bible rather than read the Bible.

What's the difference between read and study? This question started me off on yet another search to satisfy my inquiring mind.

The online Merriam-Webster dictionary has twenty-three definitions for read when used with an object. 

Who knew that read the Bible (verb+object), contains more meaning than most of us realize? 
Not all twenty-three definitions apply to actually reading a book, the Bible. 

I am only including the seven applicable meanings in my list, but retaining the number of the original dictionary list. 

The sentences in italics are my thoughts about each meaning.

     1.       to look at carefully to understand the meaning of (something written, printed, etc.)

Hmmm... that sounds like studying to me. What do you think?

2.       to utter aloud or render in speech (something written, printed, etc.)

Okay, I've read my bible aloud on many occasions. How about you?

3.       to have such knowledge of (a language) as to be able to understand things written in it: to be able to read French.

My bible is an English translation and I understand what is written in it.

      10.   to interpret or attribute a meaning to (a written text), a musical composition, etc.): How do                you read this clause in the contract?

                 Hmmmm... that sounds like studying too, doesn't it.

     11.     to infer (something not expressed or directly indicated) from what is read, considered, or                  observed.

                 Hundreds of books of been written because of this meaning and I'm sure you have read                 some of them too.

    17.    British. to study (a subject), as at a university: to read law.

             You can study the Bible as a subject or topic.

   18.    to read the work of (an author): She is reading Kafka.

            I believe the Bible is the work of divinely inspired authors so this applies too.

 My Conclusion

Study is a related word or synonym for read. The deeper meaning of the Bible reveals itself through careful reading, or study.