astray, go astray, went astray, lead astray, led astray, stray, strayed, strays

Definition:

The terms "stray" and "go astray" mean to disobey God's will. People who are "led astray" have allowed other people or circumstances to influence them to disobey God.

• The word "astray" gives a picture of leaving a clear path or a place of safety to go down a wrong and dangerous path.
• Sheep who leave the pasture of their shepherd have "strayed." God compares sinful people to sheep who have left him and "gone astray."

Translation Suggestions:

• The phrase "go astray" could be translated as "go away from God" or "take a wrong path away from God's will" or "stop obeying God" or "live in a way that goes away from God."
• To "lead someone astray" could be translated as "cause someone to disobey God" or "influence someone to stop obeying God" or "cause someone to follow you down a wrong path."

(See also: disobey, shepherd)

Bible References:

• 1 John 03:7-8
• 2 Timothy 03:10-13
• Exodus 23:4-5
• Ezekiel 48:10-12
• Matthew 18:12-14
• Matthew 24:3-5
• Psalms 058:3-5
• Psalms 119:109-110

Word Data:

• Strong's: H5080, H7683, H7686, H8582, G4105

bind, bond, bound

Definition:

The term "bind" means to tie something or fasten it securely. Something that is tied or joined together is called a "bond." The term "bound" is the past tense of this term.

• To be "bound" means to have something tied or wrapped around something else.
• In a figurative sense, a person can be "bound" to a vow, which means he is "required to fulfill" what he promised to do.
• The term "bonds" refers to anything that binds, confines, or imprisons someone. It usually refers to physical chains, fetters or ropes that keep a person from being free to move.
• In Bible times, bonds such as ropes or chains were used to attach prisoners to the wall or floor of a stone prison.
• The term "bind" can also be used to talk about wrapping cloth around a wound to help it heal.
• A dead person would be "bound" with cloth in preparation for burial.
• The term "bond" is used figuratively to refer to something, such as sin, that controls or enslaves someone.
• A bond can also be a close relationship between people in which they support each other emotionally, spiritually and physically. This applies to the bond of marriage.
• For example, a husband and wife are "bound" or tied to each other. It is a bond that God does not want broken.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "bind" could also be translated as "tie" or "tie up" or "wrap (around)."
• Figuratively, it could be translated as to "restrain" or to "prevent" or to "keep from (something)."
• A special use of "bind" in Matthew 16 and 18 means "forbid" or "not permit."
• The term "bonds" could be translated as "chains" or "ropes" or "shackles."
• Figuratively the term "bond" could be translated as "knot" or "connection" or "close relationship."
• The phrase "bond of peace" means "being in harmony, which brings people in closer relationship to each other" or "the tying together that peace brings."
• To "bind up" could be translated as "wrap around" or "put a bandage on."
• To "bind" oneself with a vow could be translated as "promise to fulfill a vow" or "commit to fulfill a vow."
• Depending on the context, the term "bound" could also be translated as "tied" or "tied up" or "chained" or "obligated (to fulfill)" or "required to do."

(See also: fulfill, peace, prison, servant, vow)

Bible References:

• Leviticus 08:6-7

Word Data:

• Strong's: H247, H481, H519, H615, H631, H632, H640, H1366, H1367, H1379, H2280, H2706, H3256, H3533, H3729, H4147, H4148, H4205, H4562, H5650, H5656, H5659, H6029, H6123, H6616, H6696, H6872, H6887, H7194, H7405, H7573, H7576, H8198, H8244, H8379, G254, G331, G332, G1195, G1196, G1198, G1199, G1210, G1397, G1398, G1401, G1402, G2611, G2615, G3734, G3784, G3814, G4019, G4029, G4385, G4886, G4887, G5265

call, calls, calling, called

Definition:

The terms "call to" and "call out" mean to say something loudly to someone who is not nearby. To "call" someone means to summon that person. There are also some other meanings.

• To "call out" to someone means to shout or speak loudly to someone far away. It can also mean to ask someone for help, especially God.
• Often in the Bible, "call" has a meaning of "summon" or "command to come" or "request to come."
• God calls people to come to him and be his people. This is their "calling."
• When God "calls" people, it means that God has appointed or chosen people to be his children, to be his servants and proclaimers of his message of salvation through Jesus.
• This term is also used in the context of naming someone. For example, "His name is called John," means, "He is named John" or "His name is John."
• To be "called by the name of" means that someone is given the name of someone else. God says that he has called his people by his name.
• A different expression, "I have called you by name" means that God has specifically chosen that person.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "call" could be translated by a word that means "summon," which includes the idea of being intentional or purposeful in calling.
• The expression "call out to you" could be translated as "ask you for help" or "pray to you urgently."
• When the Bible says that God has "called" us to be his servants, this could be translated as, "specially chose us" or "appointed us" to be his servants.
• "You must call his name" can also be translated as, "you must name him."
• "His name is called" could also be translated as, "his name is" or "he is named."
• To "call out" could be translated as, "say loudly" or "shout" or "say with a loud voice." Make sure the translation of this does not sound like the person is angry.
• The expression "your calling" could be translated as "your purpose" or "God's purpose for you" or "God's special work for you."
• To "call on the name of the Lord" could be translated as "seek the Lord and depend on him" or "trust in the Lord and obey him."
• To "call for" something could be translated by "demand" or "ask for" or "command."
• The expression "you are called by my name" could be translated as, "I have given you my name, showing that you belong to me."
• When God says, "I have called you by name," this could be translated as, "I know you and have chosen you."

(See also: pray)

Bible References:

• 1 Kings 18:22-24
• 1 Thessalonians 04:7-8
• 2 Timothy 01:8-11
• Ephesians 04:1-3
• Galatians 01:15-17
• Matthew 02:13-15
• Philippians 03:12-14

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Word Data:

• Strong's: H559, H2199, H4744, H6817, H7121, H7123, G154, G363, G1458, G1528, G1941, G1951, G2028, G2046, G2564, G2821, G2822, G2840, G2919, G3004, G3106, G3333, G3343, G3603, G3686, G3687, G4316, G4341, G4377, G4779, G4867, G5455, G5537, G5581

children, child

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "child" is often used to generally refer to someone who is young in age, including an infant. The term "children" is the plural form and it also has several figurative uses.

• In the Bible, disciples or followers are sometimes called "children."
• Often the term "children" is used to refer to a person's descendants.

• The phrase "children of" can refer to being characterized by something. Some examples of this would be:

  • children of the light
  • children of obedience
  • children of the devil
• This term can also refer to people who are like spiritual children. For example, "children of God" refers to people who belong to God through faith in Jesus.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "children" could be translated as "descendants" when it is referring to a person's great-grandchildren or great-great-grandchildren, etc.
• Depending on the context, "children of" could be translated as, "people who have the characteristics of" or "people who behave like."
• If possible, the phrase, "children of God" should be translated literally since an important biblical theme is that God is our heavenly Father. A possible translation alternate would be, "people who belong to God" or "God's spiritual children."
• When Jesus calls his disciples "children," this could also be translated as, "dear friends" or "my beloved disciples."
• When Paul and John refer to believers in Jesus as "children," this could also be translated as "dear fellow believers."
• The phrase, "children of the promise" could be translated as, "people who have received what God promised them."

(See also: descendant, promise, son, spirit, believe, beloved)

Bible References:

• 1 John 02:27-29
• 3 John 01:1-4
• Galatians 04:19-20
• Genesis 45:9-11
• Joshua 08:34-35
• Nehemiah 05:4-5

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1069, H1121, H1123, H1129, H1323, H1397, H1580, H2029, H2030, H2056, H2138, H2145, H2233, H2945, H3173, H3205, H3206, H3208, H3211, H3243, H3490, H4392, H5271, H5288, H5290, H5759, H5764, H5768, H5953, H6185, H7908, H7909, H7921, G730, G815, G1025, G1064, G1471, G3439, G3515, G3516, G3808, G3812, G3813, G3816, G5040, G5041, G5042, G5043, G5044, G5206, G5207, G5388

in Christ, in Jesus, in the Lord, in him

Definition:

The phrase "in Christ" and related terms refer to the state or condition of being in relationship with Jesus Christ through faith in him.

• Other related terms include "in Christ Jesus, in Jesus Christ, in the Lord Jesus, in the Lord Jesus Christ."
• Possible meanings for the term "in Christ" could include "because you belong to Christ" or "through the relationship you have with Christ" or "based on your faith in Christ."
• These related terms all have the same meaning of being in a state of believing in Jesus and being his disciple.
• Note: Sometimes the word "in" belongs with the verb. For example, "share in Christ" means to "share in" the benefits that come from knowing Christ. To "glory in" Christ means to be glad and give praise to God for who Jesus is and what he has done. To "believe in" Christ means to trust him as Savior and know him.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, different ways to translate "in Christ" and "in the Lord" (and related phrases) could include:

  • "who belong to Christ"
  • "because you believe in Christ"
  • "because Christ has saved us"
  • "in service to the Lord"
  • "relying on the Lord"
  • "because of what the Lord has done."
• People who "believe in" Christ or who "have faith in" Christ believe what Jesus taught and are trusting him to save them because of his sacrifice on the cross that paid the penalty for their sins. Some languages may have one word that translates verbs like "believe in" or "share in" or "trust in."

(See also: Christ, Lord, Jesus, believe, faith)

Bible References:

• 1 John 02:4-6
• 2 Corinthians 02:16-17
• 2 Timothy 01:1-2
• Galatians 01:21-24
• Galatians 02:17-19
• Philemon 01:4-7
• Revelation 01:9-11
• Romans 09:1-2

Word Data:

• Strong's: G1519, G2962, G5547

clean, cleans, cleaned, cleanse, cleansed, cleansing, wash, washing, washed, washes, unclean

Definition:

The term "clean" literally means to not have any dirt or stain. In the Bible, it is often used figuratively to mean, "pure," "holy," or "free from sin."

• "Cleanse" is the process of making something "clean." It could also be translated as "wash" or "purify."
• In the Old Testament, God told the Israelites which animals he had specified as ritually "clean" and which ones were "unclean." Only the clean animals were permitted to be used for eating or for sacrifice. In this context, the term "clean" means that the animal was acceptable to God for use as a sacrifice.
• A person who had certain skin diseases would be unclean until the skin was healed enough to no longer be contagious. Instructions for cleansing the skin had to be obeyed in order for that person to be declared "clean" again.
• Sometimes "clean" is used figuratively to refer to moral purity.

In the Bible, the term "unclean" is used figuratively to refer to things that God declared to be unfit for his people to touch, eat, or sacrifice.

• God gave the Israelites instructions about which animals were "clean" and which ones were "unclean." The unclean animals were not permitted to be used for eating or for sacrifice.
• People with certain skin diseases were said to be "unclean" until they were healed.
• If the Israelites touched something "unclean," they themselves would be considered unclean for a certain period of time.
• Obeying God's commands about not touching or eating unclean things kept the Israelites set apart for God's service.
• This physical and ritual uncleanness was also symbolic of moral uncleanness.
• In another figurative sense, an "unclean spirit" refers to an evil spirit.

Translation Suggestions:

• This term could be translated with the common word for "clean" or "pure" (in the sense of being not dirty).
• Other ways to translate this could include, "ritually clean" or "acceptable to God."
• "Cleanse" could be translated by "wash" or "purify."

• Make sure that the words used for "clean" and "cleanse" can also be understood in a figurative sense.

• The term "unclean" could also be translated as "not clean" or "unfit in God's eyes" or "physically unclean" or "defiled."
• When referring to a demon as an unclean spirit, "unclean" could be translated as "evil" or "defiled."
• The translation of this term should allow for spiritual uncleanness. It should be able to refer to anything that God declared as unfit for touching, eating, or sacrifice.

(See also: defile, demon, holy, sacrifice)

Bible References:

• Genesis 07:1-3
• Genesis 07:8-10
• Deuteronomy 12:15-16
• Psalms 051:7-9
• Proverbs 20:29-30
• Ezekiel 24:13
• Matthew 23:27-28
• Luke 05:12-13
• Acts 08:6-8
• Acts 10:27-29
• Colossians 03:5-8
• 1 Thessalonians 04:7-8
• James 04:8-10

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1249, H1252, H1305, H2134, H2135, H2141, H2398, H2548, H2834, H2889, H2890, H2891, H2893, H2930, H2931, H2932, H3001, H3722, H5079, H5352, H5355, H5356, H6172, H6565, H6663, H6945, H7137, H8552, H8562, G167, G169, G2511, G2512, G2513, G2839, G2840, G3394, G3689

die, dies, died, dead, deadly, deadness, death, deaths, deathly

Definition:

This term is used to refer to both physical and spiritual death. Physically, it refers to when the physical body of a person stops living. Spiritually, it refers to sinners being separated from a holy God because of their sin.

1. Physical death

• To "die" means to stop living. Death is the end of physical life.
• A person's spirit leaves his body when he dies.
• When Adam and Eve sinned, physical death came into the world.
• The expression "put to death" refers to killing or murdering someone, especially when a king or other ruler gives an order for someone to be killed.

2. Spiritual death

• Spiritual death is the separation of a person from God.
• Adam died spiritually when he disobeyed God. His relationship with God was broken. He became ashamed and tried to hide from God.
• Every descendant of Adam is a sinner, and is spiritually dead. God makes us spiritually alive again when we have faith in Jesus Christ.

Translation Suggestions:

• To translate this term, it is best to use the everyday, natural word or expression in the target language that refers to death.
• In some languages, to "die" may be expressed as to "not live." The term "dead" may be translated as "not alive" or "not having any life" or "not living."
• Many languages use figurative expressions to describe death, such as to "pass away" in English. However, in the Bible it is best to use the most direct term for death that is used in everyday language.
• In the Bible, physical life and death are often compared to spiritual life and death. It is important in a translation to use the same word or phrase for both physical death and spiritual death.
• In some languages it may be more clear to say "spiritual death" when the context requires that meaning. Some translators may also feel it is best to say "physical death" in contexts where it is being contrasted to spiritual death.
• The expression "the dead" is a nominal adjective that refers to people who have died. Some languages will translate this as "dead people" or "people who have died." (See: nominal adjective)
• The expression "put to death" could also be translated as "kill" or "murder" or "execute."

(See also: believe, faith, life, spirit)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 15:20-21
• 1 Thessalonians 04:16-18
• Acts 10:42-43
• Acts 14:19-20
• Colossians 02:13-15
• Colossians 02:20-23
• Genesis 02:15-17
• Genesis 34:27-29
• Matthew 16:27-28
• Romans 05:10-11
• Romans 05:12-13
• Romans 06:10-11

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 01:11 God told Adam that he could eat from any tree in the garden except from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If he ate from this tree, he would die.
• 02:11 "Then you will die, and your body will return to dirt."
• 07:10 Then Isaac died, and Jacob and Esau buried him.
• 37:05 "Jesus replied, "I am the Resurrection and the Life. Whoever believes in me will live, even though he dies. Everyone who believes in me will never die."
• 40:08 Through his death, Jesus opened a way for people to come to God.
• 43:07 "Although Jesus died, God raised him from the dead."
• 48:02 Because they sinned, everyone on earth gets sick and everyone dies.
• 50:17 He (Jesus) will wipe away every tear and there will be no more suffering, sadness, crying, evil, pain, or death.

Word Data:

• Strong's: H6, H1478, H1826, H1934, H2491, H4191, H4192, H4193, H4194, H4463, H5038, H5315, H6297, H6757, H7496, H7523, H8045, H8546, H8552, G336, G337, G520, G581, G599, G615, G622, G684, G1634, G1935, G2079, G2253, G2286, G2287, G2288, G2289, G2348, G2837, G2966, G3498, G3499, G3500, G4430, G4880, G4881, G5053, G5054

dishonor, dishonors, dishonored, dishonorable

Definition:

The term "dishonor" means to do something that is disrespectful to someone. This can also cause that person shame or disgrace.

• The term "dishonorable" describes an action that is shameful or that causes someone to be dishonored.
• Sometimes "dishonorable" is used to refer to objects that are not useful for anything important.
• Children are commanded to honor and obey their parents. When children disobey, they dishonor their parents. They are treating their parents in a way that does not honor them.
• The Israelites dishonored Yahweh when they worshiped false gods and practiced immoral behavior.
• The Jews dishonored Jesus by saying that he was possessed by a demon.
• This could be translated as to "not honor" or to "treat with no respect."
• The noun "dishonor" could be translated as "disrespect" or "loss of honor."
• Depending on the context, "dishonorable" could also be translated as "not honorable" or "shameful" or "not worthwhile" or "not valuable."

(See also: disgrace, honor)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 04:10-11
• 1 Samuel 20:32-34
• 2 Corinthians 06:8-10
• Ezekiel 22:6-9
• John 08:48-49
• Leviticus 18:6-8

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1540, H2490, H2781, H3637, H3639, H5006, H5034, H6172, H6173, H7034, H7036, H7043, G818, G819, G820, G2617

endure, endures, endured, enduring, endurance

Definition:

The term "endure" means to last a long time or to bear something difficult with patience.

• It also means to stand firm when times of testing come, without giving up.
• The term "endurance" can mean "patience" or "bearing up under a trial" or "persevering when being persecuted."
• The encouragement to Christians to "endure to the end" is telling them to obey Jesus, even if this causes them to suffer.
• To "endure suffering" can also mean to "experience suffering."

Translation Suggestions:

• Ways to translate the term "endure" could include "persevere" or "keep believing" or "continue to do what God wants you to do" or "stand firm."
• In some contexts, to "endure" could be translated as to "experience" or to "go through."
• With the meaning of lasting for a long time, the term "endure" could also be tranlsated as "last" or "continue." The phrase "will not endure" could be translated as "will not last" or "will not continue to survive."
• Ways to translate "endurance" could include "perseverance" or "continuing to believe" or "remaining faithful."

(See also: persevere)

Bible References:

• 2 Timothy 02:11-13
• James 01:1-3
• James 01:12-13
• Luke 21:16-19
• Matthew 13:20-21
• Revelation 01:9-11
• Romans 05:3-5

Word Data:

• Strong's: H386, H3201, H3557, H3885, H5331, H5375, H5975, G430, G907, G1526, G2005, G2076, G2553, G2594, G3114, G3306, G4722, G5278, G5281, G5297, G5342

eternity, everlasting, eternal, forever

Definition:

The terms "everlasting" and "eternal" have very similar meanings and refer to something that will always exist or that lasts forever.

• The term "eternity" refers to a state of being that has no beginning or end. It can also refer to life that never ends.
• After this present life on earth, humans will spend eternity either in heaven with God or in hell apart from God.
• The terms "eternal life" and "everlasting life" are used in the New Testament to refer to living forever with God in heaven.
• The phrase "forever and ever" has the idea of time that never ends and expresses what eternity or eternal life is like.

The term "forever" refers to never-ending time. Sometimes it is used figuratively to mean "a very long time."

• The term "forever and ever" emphasizes that something will always happen or exist.
• The phrase "forever and ever" is a way of expressing what eternity or eternal life is. It also has the idea of time that never ends.
• God said that David's throne would last "forever." This is referred to the fact that David's descendant Jesus will reign as king forever.

Translation Suggestions:

• Other ways to translate "eternal" or "everlasting" could include"unending" or "never stopping" or "always continuing."
• The terms "eternal life" and "everlasting life" could also be translated as "life that never ends" or "life that continues without stopping" or "the raising up of our bodies to live forever."
• Depending on the context, different ways to translate "eternity" could include "existing outside of time" or "unending life" or "life in heaven."

• Also consider how this word is translated in a Bible translation in a local or national language. (See: How to Translate Unknowns)

• "Forever" could also be translated by "always" or "never ending."
• The phrase "will last forever" could also be translated as "always exist" or "will never stop" or "will always continue."
• The emphatic phrase "forever and ever" could also be translated as "for always and always" or "not ever ending" or "which never, ever ends."
• David's throne lasting forever could be translated as "David's descendant will reign forever" or "a descendant of David will always be reigning."

(See also: David, reign, life)

Bible References:

• Genesis 17:7-8
• Genesis 48:3-4
• Exodus 15:17-18
• 2 Samuel 03:28-30
• 1 Kings 02:32-33
• Job 04:20-21
• Psalms 021:3-4
• Isaiah 09:6-7
• Isaiah 40:27-28
• Daniel 07:17-18
• Luke 18:18-21
• Acts 13:46-47
• Romans 05:20-21
• Hebrews 06:19-20
• Hebrews 10:11-14
• 1 John 01:1-2
• 1 John 05:11-12
• Revelation 01:4-6
• Revelation 22:3-5

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 27:01 One day, an expert in the Jewish law came to Jesus to test him, saying, "Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
• 28:01 One day, a rich young ruler came up to Jesus and asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to have eternal life?" Jesus said to him, "Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only One who is good, and that is God. But if you want to have eternal life, obey God's laws."
• 28:10 Jesus answered, "Everyone who has left houses, brothers, sisters, father, mother, children, or property for my name's sake, will receive 100 times more and will also receive eternal life."

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3117, H4481, H5331, H5703, H5705, H5769, H5865, H5957, H6924, G126, G165, G166, G1336

faith

Definition:

In general, the term "faith" refers to a belief, trust or confidence in someone or something.

• To "have faith" in someone is to believe that what he says and does is true and trustworthy.
• To "have faith in Jesus" means to believe all of God's teachings about Jesus. It especially means that people trust in Jesus and his sacrifice to cleanse them from their sin and to rescue them from the punishment they deserve because of their sin.
• True faith or belief in Jesus will cause a person to produce good spiritual fruits or behaviors because the Holy Spirit is living in him.
• Sometimes "faith" refers generally to all the teachings about Jesus, as in the expression "the truths of the faith."
• In contexts such as "keep the faith" or "abandon the faith," the term "faith" refers to the state or condition of believing all the teachings about Jesus.

Translation Suggestions:

• In some contexts, "faith" can be translated as "belief" or "conviction" or "confidence" or "trust."
• For some languages these terms will be translated using forms of the verb "believe." (See: abstractnouns)
• The expression "keep the faith" could be translated by "keep believing in Jesus" or "continue to believe in Jesus."
• The sentence "they must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith" could be translated by "they must keep believing all the true things about Jesus that they have been taught."
• The expression "my true son in the faith" could be translated by something like "who is like a son to me because I taught him to believe in Jesus" or "my true spiritual son, who believes in Jesus."

(See also: believe, faithful)

Bible References:

• 2 Timothy 04:6-8
• Acts 06:7
• Galatians 02:20-21
• James 02:18-20

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 05:06 When Isaac was a young man, God tested Abraham's faith by saying, "Take Isaac, your only son, and kill him as a sacrifice to me."
• 31:07 Then he (Jesus) said to Peter, "You man of little faith, why did you doubt?"
• 32:16 Jesus said to her, "Your faith has healed you. Go in peace."
• 38:09 Then Jesus said to Peter, "Satan wants to have all of you, but I have prayed for you, Peter, that your faith will not fail.

Word Data:

• Strong's: H529, H530, G1680, G3640, G4102, G6066

faithful, faithfulness, unfaithful, unfaithfulness

Definition:

To be "faithful" to God means to consistently live according to God's teachings. It means to be loyal to him by obeying him.The state or condition of being faithful is "faithfulness."

• A person who is faithful can be trusted to always keep his promises and to always fulfill his responsibilities to other people.
• A faithful person perseveres in doing a task, even when it is long and difficult.
• Faithfulness to God is the consistent practice of doing what God wants us to do.

The term "unfaithful" describes people who do not do what God has commanded them to do. The condition or practice of being unfaithful is "unfaithfulness."

• The people of Israel were called "unfaithful" when they began to worship idols and when they disobeyed God in other ways.
• In marriage, someone who commits adultery is "unfaithful" to his or her spouse.
• God used the term "unfaithfulness" to describe Israel's disobedient behavior. They were not obeying God or honoring him.

Translation Suggestions:

• In many contexts, "faithful" can be translated as "loyal" or "dedicated" or "dependable."
• In other contexts, "faithful" can be translated by a word or phrase that means "continuing to believe" or "persevering in believing and obeying God."

• Ways that "faithfulness" could be translated could include "persevering in believing" or "loyalty" or "trustworthiness" or "believing and obeying God."

• Depending on the context, "unfaithful" could be translated as "not faithful" or "unbelieving" or "not obedient" or "not loyal."
• The phrase "the unfaithful" could be translated as "people who are not faithful (to God)" or "unfaithful people" or "those who disobey God" or "people who rebel against God."
• The term "unfaithfulness" could be translated as "disobedience" or "disloyalty" or "not believing or obeying."
• In some languages, the term "unfaithful" is related to the word for "unbelief."

(See also: adultery, believe, disobey, faith, believe)

Bible References:

• Genesis 24:49
• Leviticus 26:40-42
• Numbers 12:6-8
• Joshua 02:14
• Judges 02:16-17
• 1 Samuel 02:9
• Psalm 012:1
• Proverbs 11:12-13
• Isaiah 01:26
• Jeremiah 09:7-9
• Hosea 05:5-7
• Luke 12:45-46
• Luke 16:10-12
• Colossians 01:7-8
• 1 Thessalonians 05:23-24
• 3 John 01:5-8

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 08:05 Even in prison, Joseph remained faithful to God, and God blessed him.
• 14:12 Even so, God was still faithful to His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
• 15:13 The people promised to remain faithful to God and follow his laws.
• 17:09 David ruled with justice and faithfulness for many years, and God blessed him. However, toward the end of his life he sinned terribly against God.
• 18:04 God was angry with Solomon and, as a punishment for Solomon's unfaithfulness, he promised to divide the nation of Israel into two kingdoms after Solomon's death.
• 35:12 "The older son said to his father, 'All these years I have worked faithfully for you!"
• 49:17 But God is faithful and says that if you confess your sins, he will forgive you.
• 50:04 If you remain faithful to me to the end, then God will save you."

Word Data:

• Strong's: H529, H530, H539, H540, H571, H898, H2181, H4603, H4604, H4820, G569, G571, G4103

god, false god, gods, goddess, idol, idols, idolater, idolaters, idolatrous, idolatry

Definition:

A false god is something that people worship instead of the one true God. The term "goddess" refers specifically to a female false god.

• These false gods or goddesses do not exist. Yahweh is the only God.
• People sometimes make objects into idols to worship as symbols of their false gods.
• In the Bible, God's people frequently turned away from obeying him in order to worship false gods.
• Demons often deceive people into believing that the false gods and idols they worship have power.
• Baal, Dagon, and Molech were three of the many false gods that were worshiped by people in Bible times.
• Asherah and Artemis (Diana) were two of the goddesses that ancient peoples worshiped.

An idol is an object that people make so they can worship it. Something is described as "idolatrous" if it involves giving honor to something other than the one true God.

• People make idols to represent the false gods that they worship.
• These false gods do not exist; there is no God besides Yahweh.
• Sometimes demons work through an idol to make it seem like it has power, even though it does not.
• Idols are often made of valuable materials like gold, silver, bronze, or expensive wood.
• An "idolatrous kingdom" means a "kingdom of people who worship idols" or a "kingdom of people who worship earthly things."
• The term "idolatrous figure" is another word for a "carved image" or an "idol."

Translation Suggestions:

• There may already be a word for "god" or "false god" in the language or in a nearby language.
• The term "idol" could be used to refer to false gods.
• In English, a lower case "g" is used to refer to false gods, and upper case "G" is used to refer to the one true God. Other languages also do that.
• Another option would be to use a completely different word to refer to the false gods.
• Some languages may add a word to specify whether the false god is described as male or female.

(See also: God, Asherah, Baal, Molech, demon, image, kingdom, worship)

Bible References:

• Genesis 35:1-3
• Exodus 32:1-2
• Psalms 031:5-7
• Psalms 081:8-10
• Isaiah 44:20
• Acts 07:41-42
• Acts 07:43
• Acts 15:19-21
• Acts 19:26-27
• Romans 02:21-22
• Galatians 04:8-9
• Galatians 05:19-21
• Colossians 03:5-8
• 1 Thessalonians 01:8-10

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 10:02 Through these plagues, God showed Pharaoh that he is more powerful than Pharaoh and all of Egypt's gods.
• 13:04 Then God gave them the covenant and said, "I am Yahweh, your God, who saved you from slavery in Egypt. Do not worship other gods."
• 14:02 They (Canaanites) worshiped false gods and did many evil things.
• 16:01 The Israelites began to worship the Canaanite gods instead of Yahweh, the true God.
• 18:13 But most of Judah's kings were evil, corrupt, and they worshiped idols. Some of the kings even sacrificed their children to false gods.

Word Data:

• Strong's: H205, H367, H410, H426, H430, H457, H1322, H1544, H1892, H2553, H3649, H4656, H4906, H5236, H5566, H6089, H6090, H6091, H6456, H6459, H6673, H6736, H6754, H7723, H8163, H8251, H8267, H8441, H8655, G1493, G1494, G1495, G1496, G1497, G2299, G2712

fool, fools, foolish, folly

Definition:

The term "fool" refers to a person who often makes wrong choices, especially choosing to disobey. The term "foolish" describes a person or behavior that is not wise.

• In the Bible, the term "fool" usually refers to a person who does not believe or obey God. This is often contrasted to the wise person, who trusts in God and obeys God.
• In the Psalms, David describes a fool as a person who does not believe in God, one who ignores all the evidence of God in his creation.
• The Old Testament book of Proverbs also gives many descriptions of what a fool, or foolish person, is like.
• The term "folly" refers to an action that is not wise because it is against God's will. Often "folly" also includes the meaning of something that is ridiculous or dangerous.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "fool" could be translated as "foolish person" or "unwise person" or "senseless person" or "ungodly person."
• Ways to translate "foolish" could include "lacking understanding" or "unwise" or "senseless."

(See also: wise)

Bible References:

• Ecclesiastes 01:16-18
• Ephesians 05:15-17
• Galatians 03:1-3
• Genesis 31:26-28
• Matthew 07:26-27
• Matthew 25:7-9
• Proverbs 13:15-16
• Psalms 049:12-13

Word Data:

• Strong's: H191, H196, H200, H1198, H1984, H2973, H3684, H3687, H3688, H3689, H3690, H5034, H5036, H5039, H5528, H5529, H5530, H5531, H6612, H8417, H8602, H8604, G453, G454, G781, G801, G877, G878, G3471, G3472, G3473, G3474, G3912

found, founded, founder, foundation, foundations

Definition:

The verb "found" means build, create, or lay a base for. The phrase "founded on" means supported by or based on. A "foundation" is the base of support on which something is built or created.

• The foundation of a house or building must be strong and dependable in order to support the entire structure.
• The term "foundation" can also refer to the beginning of something or to the time when something was first created.
• In a figurative sense, believers in Christ are compared to a building that is founded on the teachings of the apostles and prophets, with Christ himself being the cornerstone of the building.
• A "foundation stone" was a stone that was laid as part of the foundation. These stones were tested to make sure they were strong enough to support an entire building.

Translation Suggestions:

• The phrase "before the foundation of the world" could be translated as "before the creation of the world" or "before the time when the world first existed" or "before everything was first created."
• The term "founded on" could be translated as "securely built on" or "firmly based on."
• Depending on the context, "foundation" could be translated as "strong base" or "solid support" or "beginning" or "creation."

(See also: cornerstone, create)

Bible References:

• 1 Kings 06:37-38
• 2 Chronicles 03:1-3
• Ezekiel 13:13-14
• Luke 14:28-30
• Matthew 13:34-35
• Matthew 25:34-36

Word Data:

• Strong's: H134, H787, H803, H808, H2713, H3245, H3247, H3248, H4143, H4144, H4146, H4328, H4349, H4527, H6884, H8356, G2310, G2311, G2602

glory, glorious, glorify, glorifies

Definition:

In general, the term "glory" means honor, splendor, and extreme greatness. Anything that has glory is said to be "glorious."

• Sometimes "glory" refers to something of great value and importance. In other contexts it communicates splendor, brightness, or judgment.
• For example, the expression "glory of the shepherds" refers to the lush pastures where their sheep had plenty of grass to eat.
• Glory is especially used to describe God, who is more glorious than anyone or anything in the universe. Everything in his character reveals his glory and his splendor.
• The expression to "glory in" means to boast about or take pride in something.

The term "glorify" means to show or tell how great and important something or someone is. It literally means to "give glory to."

• People can glorify God by telling about the wonderful things he has done.
• They can also glorify God by living in a way that honors him and shows how great and magnificent he is.
• When the Bible says that God glorifies himself, it means that he reveals to people his amazing greatness, often through miracles.
• God the Father will glorify God the Son by revealing to people the Son's perfection, splendor, and greatness.
• Everyone who believes in Christ will be glorified with him. When they are raised to life, they will be changed to reflect his glory and to display his grace to all creation.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, different ways to translate "glory" could include "splendor" or "brightness" or "majesty" or "awesome greatness" or "extreme value."
• The term "glorious" could be translated as "full of glory" or "extremely valuable" or "brightly shining" or "awesomely majestic."
• The expression "give glory to God" could be translated as "honor God's greatness" or "praise God because of his splendor" or "tell others how great God is."

• The expression "glory in" could also be translated as "praise" or "take pride in" or "boast about" or "take pleasure in."

• "Glorify" could also be translated as "give glory to" or "bring glory to" or "cause to appear great."
• The phrase "glorify God" could also be translated as "praise God" or "talk about God's greatness" or "show how great God is" or "honor God (by obeying him)."
• The term "be glorified" could also be translated as, "be shown to be very great" or "be praised" or "be exalted."

(See also: exalt, obey, praise)

Bible References:

• Exodus 24:16-18
• Numbers 14:9-10
• Isaiah 35:1-2
• Luke 18:42-43
• Luke 02:8-9
• John 12:27-29
• Acts 03:13-14
• Acts 07:1-3
• Romans 08:16-17
• 1 Corinthians 06:19-20
• Philippians 02:14-16
• Philippians 04:18-20
• Colossians 03:1-4
• 1 Thessalonians 02:5-6
• James 02:1-4
• 1 Peter 04:15-16
• Revelation 15:3-4

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 23:07 Suddenly, the skies were filled with angels praising God, saying, "Glory to God in heaven and peace on earth to the people he favors!"
• 25:06 Then Satan showed Jesus all the kingdoms of the world and all their glory and said, "I will give you all this if you bow down and worship me."
• 37:01 When Jesus heard this news, he said, "This sickness will not end in death, but it is for the glory of God."
• 37:08 Jesus responded, "Did I not tell you that you would see God's glory if you believe in me?"

Word Data:

• Strong's: H117, H142, H155, H215, H1342, H1921, H1922, H1925, H1926, H1935, H1984, H2892, H3367, H3513, H3519, H3520, H6286, H6643, H7623, H8597, G1391, G1392, G1740, G1741, G2620, G2744, G2745, G2746, G2755, G2811, G4888

sons of God

Definition:

The term "sons of God" is a figurative expression that has several possible meanings.

• In the New Testament, the term "sons of God" refers to all believers in Jesus and is often translated as "children of God" since it includes both males and females.
• This use of the term speaks of a relationship with God that is like the relationship between a human son and his father, with all the privileges associated with being sons.
• Some people interpret the term "sons of God" that appears in Genesis 6 to mean fallen angels—evil spirits or demons. Others think it may refer to powerful political rulers or to the descendants of Seth.
• In the New Testament, the term "sons of God" refers to all believers in Jesus and is often translated as "children of God" since it includes both males and females.
• This use of the term speaks of a relationship with God that is like the relationship between human sons and their father, with all the privileges associated with being sons.
• The title "Son of God" is a different term: it refers to Jesus, who is God's only Son.

Translation Suggestions:

• When "sons of God" refers to believers in Jesus, it could be translated as "children of God."
• In Genesis 6:2 and 4 ways to translate "sons of God" could include "angels," "spirit beings," "supernatural creatures," or "demons."
• Also see the link for "son."

(See also: angel, demon, son, Son of God, ruler, spirit)

Bible References:

• Genesis 06:1-3
• Genesis 06:4
• Job 01:6-8
• Romans 08:14-15

Word Data:

• Strong's: H430, H1121, G2316, G5043, G5207

gold, golden

Definition:

Gold is a yellow, high quality metal that was used for making jewelry and religious objects. It was the most valuable metal in ancient times.

• In Bible times, many different kinds of objects were made out of solid gold or were covered with a thin layer of gold.
• These objects included earrings and other jewelry, and idols, altars, and other objects used in the tabernacle or temple, such as the ark of the covenant.
• In Old Testament times, gold was used as a means of exchange in buying and selling. It was weighed on a scale to determine its value.
• Later on, gold and other metals such as silver were used to make coins to use in buying and selling
• When referring to something that is not solid gold, but only has a thin covering of gold, the term "golden" or "gold-covered" or "gold-overlaid" could also be used.
• Sometimes an object is described as "gold-colored," which means it has the yellow color of gold, but may not actually be made of gold.

(See also: altar, ark of the covenant, false god, silver, tabernacle, temple)

Bible References:

• 1 Peter 01:6-7
• 1 Timothy 02:8-10
• 2 Chronicles 01:14-15
• Acts 03:4-6
• Daniel 02:31-33

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1220, H1222, H1722, H2091, H2742, H3800, H4062, H5458, H6884, H6885, G5552, G5553, G5554, G5557

good, goodness

Definition:

The word "good" has different meanings depending on the context. Many languages will use different words to translate these different meanings.

• In general, something is good if it fits with God's character, purposes, and will.
• Something that is "good" could be pleasing, excellent, helpful, suitable, profitable, or morally right.
• Land that is "good" could be called "fertile" or "productive."
• A "good" crop could be a "plentiful" crop.
• A person can be "good" at what they do if they are skillful at their task or profession, as in, the expression, "a good farmer."
• In the Bible, the general meaning of "good" is often contrasted with "evil."
• The term "goodness" usually refers to being morally good or righteous in thoughts and actions.
• The goodness of God refers to how he blesses people by giving them good and beneficial things. It also can refer to his moral perfection.

Translation Suggestions:

• The general term for "good" in the target language should be used wherever this general meaning is accurate and natural, especially in contexts where it is contrasted to evil.
• Depending on the context, other ways to translate this term could include "kind" or "excellent" or "pleasing to God" or "righteous" or "morally upright" or "profitable."
• "Good land" could be translated as "fertile land" or "productive land"; a "good crop" could be translated as a "plentiful harvest" or "large amount of crops."
• The phrase "do good to" means to do something that benefits others and could be translated as "be kind to" or "help" or "benefit" someone.
• To "do good on the Sabbath" means to "do things that help others on the Sabbath."
• Depending on the context, ways to translate the term "goodness" could include "blessing" or "kindness" or "moral perfection" or "righteousness" or "purity."

(See also: evil, holy, profit, righteous)

Bible References:

• Galatians 05:22-24
• Genesis 01:11-13
• Genesis 02:9-10
• Genesis 02:15-17
• James 03:13-14
• Romans 02:3-4

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 01:04 God saw that what he had created was good.
• 01:11 God planted…the tree of the knowledge of good and evil."
• 01:12 Then God said, "It is not good for man to be alone."
• 02:04 "God just knows that as soon as you eat it, you will be like God and will understand good and evil like he does."
• 08:12 "You tried to do evil when you sold me as a slave, but God used the evil for good!"
• 14:15 Joshua was a good leader because he tTable of Contentsrusted and obeyed God.
• 18:13 Some of these kings were good men who ruled justly and worshiped God.
• 28:01 "Good teacher, what must I do to have eternal life?" Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me 'good?' There is only one who is good, and that is God."

Word Data:

• Strong's: H117, H145, H155, H202, H239, H410, H1580, H1926, H1935, H2532, H2617, H2623, H2869, H2895, H2896, H2898, H3190, H3191, H3276, H3474, H3788, H3966, H4261, H4399, H5232, H5750, H6287, H6643, H6743, H7075, H7368, H7399, H7443, H7999, H8231, H8232, H8233, H8389, H8458, G14, G15, G18, G19, G515, G744, G865, G979, G1380, G2095, G2097, G2106, G2107, G2108, G2109, G2114, G2115, G2133, G2140, G2162, G2163, G2174, G2293, G2565, G2567, G2570, G2573, G2887, G2986, G3140, G3617, G3776, G4147, G4632, G4674, G4851, G5223, G5224, G5358, G5542, G5543, G5544

good news, gospel

Definition:

The term "gospel" literally means "good news" and refers to a message or announcement that tells people something that benefits them and makes them glad.

• In the Bible, this term usually refers to the message about God's salvation for people through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.
• In most English Bibles, "good news" is usually translated as "gospel" and is also used in phrases such as, the "gospel of Jesus Christ," the "gospel of God" and the "gospel of the kingdom."

Translation Suggestions:

• Different ways to translate this term could include, "good message" or "good announcement" or "God's message of salvation" or "the good things God teaches about Jesus."
• Depending on the context, ways to translate the phrase, "good news of" could include, "good news/message about" or "good message from" or "the good things God tells us about" or "what God says about how he saves people."

(See also: kingdom, sacrifice, save)

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 01:4-5
• Acts 08:25
• Colossians 01:21-23
• Galatians 01:6-7
• Luke 08:1-3
• Mark 01:14-15
• Philippians 02:22-24
• Romans 01:1-3

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 23:06 The angel said, "Do not be afraid, because I have some good news for you. The Messiah, the Master, has been born in Bethlehem!"
• 26:03 Jesus read, "God has given me his Spirit so that I can proclaim good news to the poor, freedom to captives, recovery of sight for the blind, and release to the oppressed. This is the year of the Lord's favor."
• 45:10 Philip also used other Scriptures to tell him the good news of Jesus.
• 46:10 Then they sent them off to preach the good news about Jesus in many other places.
• 47:01 One day, Paul and his friend Silas went to the town of Philippi to proclaim the good news about Jesus.
• 47:13 The good news about Jesus kept spreading, and the Church kept growing.
• 50:01 For almost 2,000 years, more and more people around the world have been hearing the good news about Jesus the Messiah.
• 50:02 When Jesus was living on earth he said, "My disciples will preach the good news about the kingdom of God to people everywhere in the world, and then the end will come."
• 50:03 Before he returned to heaven, Jesus told Christians to proclaim the good news to people who have never heard it.

Word Data:

• Strong's: G2097, G2098, G4283

grace, gracious

Definition:

The word "grace" refers to help or blessing that is given to someone who has not earned it. The term "gracious" describes someone who shows grace to others.

• God's grace toward sinful human beings is a gift that is freely given.
• The concept of grace also refers to being kind and forgiving to someone who has done wrong or hurtful things.
• The expression to "find grace" is an expression that means to receive help and mercy from God. Often it includes the meaning that God is pleased with someone and helps him.

Translation Suggestions:

• Other ways that "grace" could be translated include "divine kindness" or "God's favor" or "God's kindness and forgiveness for sinners" or "merciful kindness."
• The term "gracious" could be translated as "full of grace" or "kind" or "merciful" or "mercifully kind."
• The expression "he found grace in the eyes of God" could be translated as "he received mercy from God" or "God mercifully helped him" or "God showed his favor to him" or "God was pleased with him and helped him."

Bible References:

• Acts 04:32-33
• Acts 06:8-9
• Acts 14:3-4
• Colossians 04:5-6
• Colossians 04:18
• Genesis 43:28-29
• James 04:6-7
• John 01:16-18
• Philippians 04:21-23
• Revelation 22:20-21

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2580, H2587, H2589, H2603, H8467, G2143, G5485, G5543

heart, hearts

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "heart" is often used figuratively to refer to a person's thoughts, emotions, desires, or will.

• To have a "hard heart" is a common expression that means a person stubbornly refuses to obey God.
• The expressions "with all my heart" or "with my whole heart" mean to do something with no holding back, with complete commitment and willingness.
• The expression "take it to heart" means to treat something seriously and apply it to one's life.
• The term "brokenhearted" describes a person who is very sad. That person has been deeply hurt emotionally.

Translation Suggestions

• Some languages use a different body part such as "stomach" or "liver" to refer to these ideas.
• Other languages may use one word to express some of these concepts and another word to express others.
• If "heart" or other body part does not have this meaning, some languages may need to express this literally with terms such as "thoughts" or "emotions" or "desires."
• Depending on the context, "with all my heart" or "with my whole heart" could be translated as "with all my energy" or "with complete dedication" or "completely" or "with total commitment."
• The expression "take it to heart" could be translated as "treat it seriously" or "carefully think about it."
• The expression "hard-hearted" could also be translated as "stubbornly rebellious" or "refusing to obey" or "continually disobeying God."
• Ways to translate "brokenhearted" could include "very sad" or "feeling deeply hurt."

(See also: hard)

Bible References:

• 1 John 03:16-18
• 1 Thessalonians 02:3-4
• 2 Thessalonians 03:13-15
• Acts 08:20-23
• Acts 15:7-9
• Luke 08:14-15
• Mark 02:5-7
• Matthew 05:5-8
• Matthew 22:37-38

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1079, H2436, H2504, H2910, H3519, H3629, H3820, H3821, H3823, H3824, H3825, H3826, H4578, H5315, H5640, H7130, H7307, H7356, H7907, G674, G1282, G1271, G2133, G2588, G2589, G4641, G4698, G5590

in Christ, in Jesus, in the Lord, in him

Definition:

The phrase "in Christ" and related terms refer to the state or condition of being in relationship with Jesus Christ through faith in him.

• Other related terms include "in Christ Jesus, in Jesus Christ, in the Lord Jesus, in the Lord Jesus Christ."
• Possible meanings for the term "in Christ" could include "because you belong to Christ" or "through the relationship you have with Christ" or "based on your faith in Christ."
• These related terms all have the same meaning of being in a state of believing in Jesus and being his disciple.
• Note: Sometimes the word "in" belongs with the verb. For example, "share in Christ" means to "share in" the benefits that come from knowing Christ. To "glory in" Christ means to be glad and give praise to God for who Jesus is and what he has done. To "believe in" Christ means to trust him as Savior and know him.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, different ways to translate "in Christ" and "in the Lord" (and related phrases) could include:

  • "who belong to Christ"
  • "because you believe in Christ"
  • "because Christ has saved us"
  • "in service to the Lord"
  • "relying on the Lord"
  • "because of what the Lord has done."
• People who "believe in" Christ or who "have faith in" Christ believe what Jesus taught and are trusting him to save them because of his sacrifice on the cross that paid the penalty for their sins. Some languages may have one word that translates verbs like "believe in" or "share in" or "trust in."

(See also: Christ, Lord, Jesus, believe, faith)

Bible References:

• 1 John 02:4-6
• 2 Corinthians 02:16-17
• 2 Timothy 01:1-2
• Galatians 01:21-24
• Galatians 02:17-19
• Philemon 01:4-7
• Revelation 01:9-11
• Romans 09:1-2

Word Data:

• Strong's: G1519, G2962, G5547

Jesus, Jesus Christ, Christ Jesus

Facts:

Jesus is God's Son. The name "Jesus" means "Yahweh saves." The term "Christ" is a title that means "anointed one" and is another word for Messiah.

• The two names are often combined as "Jesus Christ" or "Christ Jesus." These names emphasize that God's Son is the Messiah, who came to save people from being punished eternally for their sins.
• In a miraculous way, the Holy Spirit caused the eternal Son of God to be born as a human being. His mother was told by an angel to call him "Jesus" because he was destined to save people from their sins.
• Jesus did many miracles that revealed that he is God and that he is the Christ, or the Messiah.

Translation Suggestions:

• In many languages "Jesus" and "Christ" are spelled in a way that keeps the sounds or spelling as close to the original as possible. For example, "Jesucristo," "Jezus Christus," "Yesus Kristus", and "Hesukristo" are some of the ways that these names are translated into different languages.
• For the term "Christ," some translators may prefer to use only some form of the term "Messiah" throughout.
• Also consider how these names are spelled in a nearby local or national language.

(Translation suggestions: How to Translate Names)

(See also: Christ, God, God the Father, high priest, kingdom of God, Mary, Savior, Son of God)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 06:9-11
• 1 John 02:1-3
• 1 John 04:15-16
• 1 Timothy 01:1-2
• 2 Peter 01:1-2
• 2 Thessalonians 02:13-15
• 2 Timothy 01:8-11
• Acts 02:22-24
• Acts 05:29-32
• Acts 10:36-38
• Hebrews 09:13-15
• Hebrews 10:19-22
• Luke 24:19-20
• Matthew 01:20-21
• Matthew 04:1-4
• Philippians 02:5-8
• Philippians 02:9-11
• Philippians 04:21-23
• Revelation 01:4-6

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 22:04 The angel said, "You will become pregnant and give birth to a son. You are to name him Jesus and he will be the Messiah."
• 23:02 "Name him Jesus (which means, 'Yahweh saves'), because he will save the people from their sins."
• 24:07 So John baptized him (Jesus), even though Jesus had never sinned.
• 24:09 There is only one God. But John heard God the Father speak, and saw Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit when he baptized Jesus.
• 25:08 Jesus did not give in to Satan's temptations, so Satan left him.
• 26:08 Then Jesus went throughout the region of Galilee, and large crowds came to him. They brought many people who were sick or handicapped, including those who could not see, walk, hear, or speak, and Jesus healed them.
• 31:03 Then Jesus finished praying and went to the disciples. He walked on top of the water across the lake toward their boat!
• 38:02 He (Judas) knew that the Jewish leaders denied that Jesus was the Messiah and that they were plotting to kill him.
• 40:08 Through his death, Jesus opened a way for people to come to God.
• 42:11 Then Jesus was taken up to heaven, and a cloud hid him from their sight. Jesus sat down at the right hand of God to rule over all things.
• 50:17 Jesus and his people will live on the new earth, and he will reign forever over everything that exists. He will wipe away every tear and there will be no more suffering, sadness, crying, evil, pain, or death. Jesus will rule his kingdom with peace and justice, and he will be with his people forever.

Word Data:

• Strong's: G2424, G5547

know, knows, knew, knowing, knowledge, known, make known, makes known, made known, unknown, foreknew, foreknowledge

Definition:

To "know" means to understand something or to be aware of a fact. The expression "make known" is an expression that means to tell information.

• The term "knowledge" refers to information that people know. It can apply to knowing things in both the physical and spiritual worlds.
• To "know about" God means to understand facts about him because of what he has revealed to us.
• To "know" God means to have a relationship with him. This also applies to knowing people.
• To know God's will means to be aware of what he has commanded, or to understand what he wants a person to do.
• To "know the Law" means to be aware of what God has commanded or to understand what God has instructed in the laws he gave to Moses.
• Sometimes "knowledge" is used as a synonym for "wisdom," which includes living in a way that is pleasing to God.
• The "knowledge of God" is sometimes used as a synonym for the "fear of Yahweh."

Translation Suggestions

• Depending on the context, ways to translate "know" could include "understand" or "be familiar with" or "be aware of" or "be acquainted with" or "be in relationship with."
• Some languages have two different words for "know," one for knowing facts and one for knowing a person and having a relationship with him.
• The term "make known" could be translated as "cause people to know" or "reveal" or "tell about" or "explain."
• To "know about" something could be translated as "be aware of" or "be familiar with."
• The expression "know how to" means to understand the process or method of getting something done. It could also be translated as "be able to" or "have the skill to."
• The term "knowledge" could also be translated as "what is known" or "wisdom" or "understanding," depending on the context.

(See also: law, reveal, understand, wise)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 02:12-13
• 1 Samuel 17:46-47
• 2 Corinthians 02:14-15
• 2 Peter 01:3-4
• Deuteronomy 04:39-40
• Genesis 19:4-5
• Luke 01:76-77

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1843, H1844, H1847, H1875, H3045, H3046, H4093, H4486, H5046, H5234, H5475, H5869, G50, G56, G1097, G1107, G1108, G1231, G1492, G1921, G1922, G1987, G2467, G2589, G3877, G4267, G4894

life, live, lived, lives, living, alive

Definition:

All these terms refer to being physically alive, not dead. They are also used figuratively to refer to being alive spiritually. The following discusses what is meant by "physical life" and "spiritual life."

1. Physical life

• Physical life is the presence of the spirit in the body. God breathed life into Adam's body, and he became a living being.
• A "life" can also refer to an individual person as in "a life was saved".
• Sometimes the word "life" refers to the experience of living as in, "his life was enjoyable."
• It can also refer to a person's lifespan, as in the expression, "the end of his life."
• The term "living" may refer to being physically alive, as in "my mother is still living." It may also refer to dwelling somewhere as in, "they were living in the city."
• In the Bible, the concept of "life" is often contrasted with the concept of "death."

2. Spiritual life

• A person has spiritual life when he believes in Jesus with God gives that person a transformed life with the Holy Spirit living in him.
• This life is also called "eternal life" to indicate that it does not end.
• The opposite of spiritual life is spiritual death, which means being separated from God and experiencing eternal punishment.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, "life" can be translated as "existence" or "person" or "soul" or "being" or "experience."
• The term "live" could be translated by "dwell" or "reside" or "exist."
• The expression "end of his life" could be translated as "when he stopped living."
• The expression "spared their lives' could be translated as "allowed them to live" or "did not kill them."
• The expression "they risked their lives" could be translated as "they put themselves in danger" or "they did something that could have killed them."
• When the Bible text talks about being alive spiritually, "life" could be translated as "spiritual life" or "eternal life," depending on the context.
• The concept of "spiritual life" could also be translated as "God making us alive in our spirits" or "new life by God's Spirit" or "being made alive in our inner self."
• Depending on the context, the expression "give life" could also be translated as "cause to live" or "give eternal life" or "cause to live eternally."

(See also: death, everlasting)

Bible References:

• 2 Peter 01:3-4
• Acts 10:42-43
• Genesis 02:7-8
• Genesis 07:21-22
• Hebrews 10:19-22
• Jeremiah 44:1-3
• John 01:4-5
• Judges 02:18-19
• Luke 12:22-23
• Matthew 07:13-14

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 01:10 So God took some dirt, formed it into a man, and breathed life into him.
• 03:01 After a long time, many people were living in the world.
• 08:13 When Joseph's brothers returned home and told their father, Jacob, that Joseph was still alive, he was very happy.
• 17:09 However, toward the end of his [David's] life he sinned terribly before God.
• 27:01 One day, an expert in the Jewish law came to Jesus to test him, saying, "Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
• 35:05 Jesus replied, "I am the Resurrection and the Life."
• 44:05 "You are the ones who told the Roman governor to kill Jesus. You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead."

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1934, H2416, H2417, H2421, H2425, H5315, G198, G222, G227, G806, G590

like, likeminded, liken, likeness, likenesses, likewise, alike, unlike

Definition:

The terms "like" and "likeness" refer to something being the same as, or similar to, something else.

• The word "like" is also often used in a figurative expressions called a "simile" in which something is compared to something else, usually highlighting a shared characteristic. For example, "his clothes shined like the sun" and "the voice boomed like thunder." (See: Simile)
• To "be like" or "sound like" or "look like" something or someone means to have qualities that are similar to the thing or person being compared to.
• People were created in God's "likeness," that is, in his "image." It means that they have qualities or characteristics that are "like" or "similar to" qualities that God has, such as the ability to think, feel, and communicate.
• To have "the likeness of" something or someone means to have characteristics that look like that thing or person.

Translation Suggestions

• In some contexts, the expression "the likeness of" could be translated as "what looked like" or "what appeared to be."
• The expression "in the likeness of his death" could be translated as "sharing in the experience of his death" or "as if experiencing his death with him."
• The expression "in the likeness of sinful flesh" could be translated as "being like a sinful human being" or to "be a human being." Make sure the translation of this expression does not sound like Jesus was sinful.
• "In his own likeness" could also be translated as to "be like him" or "having many of the same qualities that he has."
• The expression "the likeness of an image of perishable man, of birds, of four-footed beasts and of creeping things" could be translated as "idols made to look like perishable humans, or animals, such as birds, beasts, and small, crawling things."

(See also: beast, flesh, image of God, image, perish)

Bible References:

• Ezekiel 01:4-6
• Mark 08:24-26
• Matthew 17:1-2
• Matthew 18:1-3
• Psalms 073:4-5
• Revelation 01:12-13

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1823, H8403, H8544, G1503, G1504, G2509, G2531, G2596, G3664, G3665, G3666, G3667, G3668, G3669, G3697, G4833, G5108, G5613, G5615, G5616, G5618, G5619

love, loves, loving, loved

Definition:

To love another person is to care for that person and do things that will benefit him. There are different meanings for "love" some languages may express using different words:

1. The kind of love that comes from God is focused on the good of others even when it doesn't benefit oneself. This kind of love cares for others, no matter what they do. God himself is love and is the source of true love.

• Jesus showed this kind of love by sacrificing his life in order to rescue us from sin and death. He also taught his followers to love others sacrificially.
• When people love others with this kind of love, they act in ways that show they are thinking of what will cause the others to thrive. This kind of love especially includes forgiving others.
• In the ULB, the word "love" refers to this kind of sacrificial love, unless a Translation Note indicates a different meaning.

1. Another word in the New Testament refers to brotherly love, or love for a friend or family member.

• This term refers to natural human love between friends or relatives.
• The term can also be used in such contexts as, "They love to sit in the most important seats at a banquet." This means that they "like very much" or "greatly desire" to do that.

1. The word "love" can also refer to romantic love between a man and a woman.

2. In the figurative expression "Jacob I have loved, but Esau I have hated," the term "loved" refers to God's choosing of Jacob to be in a covenant relationship with him. This could also be translated as "chosen." Although Esau was also blessed by God, he wasn't given the privilege of being in the covenant. The term "hated" is used figuratively here to mean "rejected" or "not chosen."

Translation Suggestions:

• Unless indicated otherwise in a Translation Note, the word "love" in the ULB refers to the kind of sacrificial love that comes from God.
• Some languages may have a special word for the kind of unselfish, sacrificial love that God has. Ways to translate this might include, "devoted, faithful caring" or "care for unselfishly" or "love from God." Make sure that the word used to translate God's love can include giving up one's own interests to benefit others and loving others no matter what they do.
• Sometimes the English word "love" describes the deep caring that people have for friends and family members. Some languages might translate this with a word or phrase that means, "like very much" or "care for" or "have strong affection for."
• In contexts where the word "love" is used to express a strong preference for something, this could be translated by "strongly prefer" or "like very much" or "greatly desire."
• Some languages may also have a separate word that refers to romantic or sexual love between a husband and wife.
• Many languages must express "love" as an action. So for example, they might translate "love is patient, love is kind" as, "when a person loves someone, he is patient with him and kind to him."

(See also: covenant, death, sacrifice, save, sin)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
• 1 John 03:1-3
• 1 Thessalonians 04:9-12
• Galatians 05:22-24
• Genesis 29:15-18
• Isaiah 56:6-7
• Jeremiah 02:1-3
• John 03:16-18
• Matthew 10:37-39
• Nehemiah 09:32-34
• Philippians 01:9-11
• Song of Solomon 01:1-4

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 27:02 The law expert replied that God's law says, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind. And love your neighbor as yourself."
• 33:08 "The thorny ground is a person who hears God's word, but, as time passes, the cares, riches, and pleasures of life choke out his love for God."
• 36:05 As Peter was talking, a bright cloud came down on top of them and a voice from the cloud said, "This is my Son whom I love."
• 39:10 "Everyone who loves the truth listens to me."
• 47:01 She (Lydia) loved and worshiped God.
• 48:01 When God created the world, everything was perfect. There was no sin. Adam and Eve loved each other, and they loved God.
• 49:03 He (Jesus) taught that you need to love other people the same way you love yourself.
• 49:04 He (Jesus) also taught that you need to love God more than you love anything else, including your wealth.
• 49:07 Jesus taught that God loves sinners very much.
• 49:09 But God loved everyone in the world so much that he gave his only Son so that whoever believes in Jesus will not be punished for his sins, but will live with God forever.
• 49:13 God loves you and wants you to believe in Jesus so he can have a close relationship with you.

Word Data:

• Strong's: H157, H158, H159, H160, H2245, H2617, H2836, H3039, H4261, H5689, H5690, H5691, H7355, H7356, H7453, H7474, G25, G26, G5360, G5361, G5362, G5363, G5365, G5367, G5368, G5369, G5377, G5381, G5382, G5383, G5388

meek, meekness

Definition:

The term "meek" describes a person who is gentle, submissive, and willing to suffer injustice. Meekness is the ability to be gentle even when harshness or force might seem appropriate.

• Meekness is often associated with humility.
• This term could also be translated as "gentle" or "mild-mannered" or "sweet-tempered."
• The term "meekness" could be translated as "gentleness" or "humility."

(See also: humble)

Bible References:

• 1 Peter 03:15-17
• 2 Corinthians 10:1-2
• 2 Timothy 02:24-26
• Matthew 05:5-8
• Matthew 11:28-30
• Psalms 037:11-13

Word Data:

• Strong's: H6035, H6037, H6038, G4235, G4236, G4239, G4240

name, names, named

Definition:

In the Bible, the word "name" was used in several figurative ways.

• In some contexts, "name" could refer to a person's reputation, as in "let us make a name for ourselves."
• The term "name" could also refer to the memory of something. For example, "cut off the names of the idols" means to destroy those idols so that they are no longer remembered or worshiped.
• Speaking "in the name of God" meant speaking with his power and authority, or as his representative.
• The "name" of someone could refer to the entire person, as in "there is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved." (See: metonymy)

Translation Suggestions:

• An expression like "his good name" could be translated as "his good reputation."
• Doing something "in the name of" could be translated as "with the authority of" or "with the permission of" or "as the representative of" that person.
• The expression "make a name for ourselves" could be translated "cause many people to know about us" or "make people think we are very important."
• The expression "call his name" could be translated as "name him" or "give him the name."
• The expression "those who love your name" could be translated as "those who love you."
• The expression "cut off the names of idols" could be translated as "get rid of pagan idols so that they are not even remembered" or "cause people to stop worshiping false gods" or "completely destroy all idols so that people no longer even think about them."

(See also: call)

Bible References:

• 1 John 02:12-14
• 2 Timothy 02:19-21
• Acts 04:5-7
• Acts 04:11-12
• Acts 09:26-27
• Genesis 12:1-3
• Genesis 35:9-10
• Matthew 18:4-6

Word Data:

• Strong's: H5344, H7121, H7761, H8034, H8036, G2564, G3686, G3687, G5122

patient, patiently, patience, impatient

Definition:

The terms "patient" and "patience" refer to persevering through difficult circumstances. Often patience involves waiting.

• When people are patient with someone, it means they are loving that person and forgiving whatever faults that person has.
• The Bible teaches God's people to be patient when facing difficulties and to be patient with each other.
• Because of his mercy, God is patient with people, even though they are sinners who deserve to be punished.

(See also: endure, forgive, persevere)

Bible References:

• 1 Peter 03:18-20
• 2 Peter 03:8-9
• Hebrews 06:11-12
• Matthew 18:28-29
• Psalms 037:7
• Revelation 02:1-2

Word Data:

• Strong's: H750, H753, H2342, H3811, H6960, H7114, G420, G463, G1933, G3114, G3115, G3116, G5278, G5281

peace, peaceful, peacefully, peaceable, peacemakers

Definition:

The term "peace" refers to a state of being or a feeling of having no conflict, anxiety, or fearfulness. A person who is "peaceful" feels calm and assured of being safe and secure.

• "Peace" can also refer to a time when people groups or countries are not at war with each other. These people are said to have "peaceful relations."
• To "make peace" with a person or a group of people means to take actions to cause fighting to stop.
• A "peacemaker" is someone who does and says things to influence people to live at peace with each other.
• To be "at peace" with other people means being in a state of not fighting against those people.
• A good or right relationship between God and people happens when God saves people from their sin. This is called having "peace with God."
• The greeting "grace and peace" was used by the apostles in their letters to their fellow believers as a blessing.
• The term "peace" can also refer to being in a good relationship with other people or with God.

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 05:1-3
• Acts 07:26-28
• Colossians 01:18-20
• Colossians 03:15-17
• Galatians 05:22-24
• Luke 07:48-50
• Luke 12:51-53
• Mark 04:38-39
• Matthew 05:9-10
• Matthew 10:11-13

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 15:06 God had commanded the Israelites not to make a peace treaty with any of the people groups in Canaan.
• 15:12 Then God gave Israel peace along all its borders.
• 16:03 Then God provided a deliverer who rescued them from their enemies and brought peace to the land.
• 21:13 He (Messiah) would die to receive the punishment for other people's sin. His punishment would bring peace between God and people.
• 48:14 David was the king of Israel, but Jesus is the king of the entire universe! He will come again and rule his kingdom with justice and peace, forever.
• 50:17 Jesus will rule his kingdom with peace and justice, and he will be with his people forever.

Word Data:

• Strong's: H5117, H7961, H7962, H7965, H7999, H8001, H8002, H8003, H8252, G269, G31514, G1515, G1516, G1517, G1518, G2272

profane, profaned, profaning

Definition:

To profane something means to act in a way that defiles, pollutes, or disrespects something that is holy.

• A profane person is one who acts in a way that is unholy and dishonoring of God.
• The verb to "profane" could be translated as to "treat as unholy" or to "be irreverent toward" or to "dishonor."
• God told the Israelites that they "profaned" themselves with idols, meaning that the people were making themselves "unclean" or "dishonored" by this sin. They were also dishonoring God.
• Depending on the context, the adjective "profane" could be translated as "dishonoring" or "godless" or "unholy."

(See also: defile, holy, clean)

Bible References:

• 2 Timothy 02:16-18
• Ezekiel 20:8-9
• Malachi 01:10-12
• Matthew 12:5-6
• Numbers 18:30-32

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2455, H2490, H2491, H2610, H2613, H5234, H8610, G952, G953

raise, raises, raised, rise, risen, arise, arose

Definition:

raise, raise up

In general, the word "raise" means to "lift up" or "make higher."

• The figurative phrase "raise up" means to cause something to come into being or to appear. It can also mean to appoint someone to do something.
• Sometimes "raise up" means to "restore" or "rebuild."
• "Raise" has a specialized meaning in the phrase "raise from the dead." It means to cause a dead person to become alive again.
• Sometimes "raise up" means to "exalt" someone or something.

rise, arise

To "rise" or "arise" means to "go up" or "get up." The terms "risen," "rose," and "arose" express past action.

• When a person gets up to go somewhere, this is sometimes expressed as "he arose and went" or "he rose up and went."
• If something "arises" it means it "happens" or "begins to happen."
• Jesus predicted that he would "rise from the dead." Three days after Jesus died, the angel said, "He has risen!"

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "raise" or "raise up" could be translated as "lift up" or "make higher."
• To "raise up" could also be translated as to "cause to appear" or to "appoint" or to "bring into existence."
• To "raise up the strength of your enemies" could be translated as, "cause your enemies to be very strong."
• The phrase "raise someone from the dead" could be translated as "cause someone to return from death to life" or "cause someone to come back to life."
• Depending on the context, "raise up" could also be translated as "provide" or to "appoint" or to "cause to have" or "build up" or "rebuild" or "repair."
• The phrase "arose and went" could be translated as "got up and went" or "went."
• Depending on the context, the term "arose" could also be translated as "began" or "started up" or "got up" or "stood up."

(See also: resurrection, appoint, exalt)

Bible References:

• 2 Chronicles 06:40-42
• 2 Samuel 07:12-14
• Acts 10:39-41
• Colossians 03:1-4
• Deuteronomy 13:1-3
• Jeremiah 06:1-3
• Judges 02:18-19
• Luke 07:21-23
• Matthew 20:17-19

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 21:14 The prophets foretold that the Messiah would die and that God would also raise him from the dead.
• 41:05 "Jesus is not here. He has risen from the dead, just like he said he would!"
• 43:07 "Although Jesus died, God raised him from the dead. This fulfills the prophecy which says, 'You will not let your Holy One rot in the grave.' We are witnesses to the fact that God raised Jesus to life again."
• 44:05 " You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. "
• 44:08 Peter answered them, "This man stands before you healed by the power of Jesus the Messiah. You crucified Jesus, but God raised him to life again!"
• 48:04 This meant that Satan would kill the Messiah, but God would raise him to life again, and then the Messiah will crush the power of Satan forever.
• 49:02 He (Jesus) walked on water, calmed storms, healed many sick people, drove out demons, raised the dead to life, and turned five loaves of bread and two small fish into enough food for over 5,000 people.
• 49:12 You must believe that Jesus is the Son of God, that he died on the cross instead of you, and that God raised him to life again.

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2210, H2224, H5549, H5782, H5927, H5975, H6209, H6965, H6966, H6974, H7613, H7721, G305, G386, G393, G450, G1096, G1326, G1453, G1525, G1817, G1825, G1892, G1999, G4891

receive, receives, received, receiving, receiver

Definition:

The term "receive" generally means to get or accept something that is given, offered, or presented.

• To "receive" can also mean to suffer or experience something, as in "he received punishment for what he did."
• There is also a special sense in which we can "receive" a person. For example, to "receive" guests or visitors means to welcome them and treat them with honor in order to build a relationship with them.
• To "receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" means we are given the Holy Spirit and welcome him to work in and through our lives.
• To "receive Jesus" means to accept God's offer of salvation through Jesus Christ.
• When a blind person "receives his sight" means that God has healed him and enabled him to see.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, "receive" could be translated as "accept" or "welcome" or "experience" or "be given."
• The expression "you will receive power" could be translated as "you will be given power" or "God will give you power" or "power will be given to you (by God)" or "God will cause the Holy Spirit to work powerfully in you."
• The phrase "received his sight" could be translated as "was able to see" or "became able to see again" or "was healed by God so that he was able to see."

(See also: Holy Spirit, Jesus, lord, save)

Bible References:

• 1 John 05:9-10
• 1 Thessalonians 01:6-7
• 1 Thessalonians 04:1-2
• Acts 08:14-17
• Jeremiah 32:33-35
• Luke 09:5-6
• Malachi 03:10-12
• Psalms 049:14-15

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 21:13 The prophets also said that the Messiah would be perfect, having no sin. He would die to receive the punishment for other people's sin. His punishment would bring peace between God and people.
• 45:05 As Stephen was dying, he cried out, "Jesus, receive my spirit."
• 49:06 He (Jesus) taught that some people will receive him and be saved, but others will not.
• 49:10 When Jesus died on the cross, he received your punishment.
• 49:13 God will save everyone who believes in Jesus and receives him as their Master.

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1878, H2505, H3557, H3947, H6901, H6902, H8254, G308, G324, G353, G354, G568, G588, G618, G1183, G1209, G1523, G1653, G1926, G2210, G2865, G2983, G3028, G3335, G3336, G3549, G3858, G3880, G3970, G4327, G4355, G4356, G4687, G4732, G5264, G5274, G5562

reign, reigns, reigned, reigning

Definition:

The term to "reign" means to rule over the people of a particular country or kingdom. The reign of a king is the time period during which he is ruling.

• The term "reign" is also used to refer to God reigning as king over the entire world.
• God allowed human kings to reign over Israel after the people rejected him as their king.
• When Jesus Christ returns, he will openly reign as king over the whole world, and Christians will reign with Him.
• This term could also be translated as "absolute rule" or "rule as king."

(See also: kingdom)

Bible References:

• 2 Timothy 02:11-13
• Genesis 36:34-36
• Luke 01:30-33
• Luke 19:26-27
• Matthew 02:22-23

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3427, H4427, H4437, H4438, H4467, H4468, H4475, H4791, H4910, H6113, H7287, H7786, G757, G936, G2231, G4821

repent, repents, repented, repentance

Definition:

The terms "repent" and "repentance" refer to turning away from sin and turning back to God.

• To "repent" literally means to "change one's mind."
• In the Bible, "repent" usually means to turn away from a sinful, human way of thinking and acting, and to turn to God's way of thinking and acting.
• When people truly repent of their sins, God forgives them and helps them start obeying him.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "repent" can be translated with a word or phrase that means "turn back (to God)" or "turn away from sin and toward God" or "turn toward God, away from sin."
• Often the term "repentance" can be translated using the verb "repent." For example, "God has given repentance to Israel" could be translated as "God has enabled Israel to repent."
• Other ways to translate "repentance" could include "turning away from sin" or "turning to God and away from sin."

(See also: forgive, sin, turn)

Bible References:

• Acts 03:19-20
• Luke 03:3
• Luke 03:8
• Luke 05:29-32
• Luke 24:45-47
• Mark 01:14-15
• Matthew 03:1-3
• Matthew 03:10-12
• Matthew 04:17
• Romans 02:3-4

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 16:02 After many years of disobeying God and being oppressed by their enemies, the Israelites repented and asked God to rescue them.
• 17:13 David repented of his sin and God forgave him.
• 19:18 They (prophets) warned people that God would destroy them if they did not repent.
• 24:02 Many people came out to the wilderness to listen to John. He preached to them, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of God is near!"
• 42:08 ""It was also written in the scriptures that my disciples will proclaim that everyone should repent in order to receive forgiveness for their sins. "
• 44:05 "So now, repent and turn to God so that your sins will be washed away."

Word Data:

• Strong's: H5150, H5162, H5164, G278, G3338, G3340, G3341

resurrection

Definition:

The term "resurrection" refers to the act of becoming alive again after having died.

• To resurrect someone means to bring that person back to life again. Only God has the power to do this.
• The word "resurrection" often refers to Jesus' coming back to life after he died.
• When Jesus said, "I am the Resurrection and the Life" he meant that he is the source of resurrection, and the one who causes people to come back to life.

Translation Suggestions:

• A person's "resurrection" could be translated as his "coming back to life" or his "becoming alive again after being dead."
• The literal meaning of this word is "a rising up" or "the act of being raised (from the dead)." These would be other possible ways to translate this term.

(See also: life, death, raise)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 15:12-14
• 1 Peter 03:21-22
• Hebrews 11:35-38
• John 05:28-29
• Luke 20:27-28
• Luke 20:34-36
• Matthew 22:23-24
• Matthew 22:29-30
• Philippians 03:8-11

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 21:14 Through the Messiah's death and resurrection, God would accomplish his plan to save sinners and start the New Covenant.
• 37:05 Jesus replied, "I am the Resurrection and the Life. Whoever believes in me will live, even though he dies.

Word Data:

• Strong's: G386, G1454, G1815

righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness

Definition:

The term "righteousness" refers to God's absolute goodness, justice, faithfulness, and love. Having these qualities makes God "righteous." Because God is righteous, he must condemn sin.

• These terms are also often used to describe a person who obeys God and is morally good. However, because all people have sinned, no one except God is completely righteous.
• Examples of people the Bible who were called "righteous" include Noah, Job, Abraham, Zachariah, and Elisabeth.
• When people trust in Jesus to save them, God cleanses them from their sins and declares them to be righteous because of Jesus' righteousness.

The term "unrighteous" means to be sinful and morally corrupt. "Unrighteousness" refers to sin or the condition of being sinful.

• These terms especially refer to living in a way that disobeys God's teachings and commands.
• Unrighteous people are immoral in their thoughts and actions.
• Sometimes "the unrighteous" refers specifically to people who do not believe in Jesus.

The terms "upright" and "uprightness" refer to acting in a way that follows God's laws.

• The meaning of these words includes the idea of standing up straight and looking directly ahead.
• A person who is "upright" is someone who obeys God's rules and does not do things that are against his will.
• Terms such as "integrity" and "righteous" have similar meanings and are sometimes used in parallelism constructions, such as "integrity and uprightness." (See: parallelism)

Translation Suggestions:

• When it describes God, the term "righteous" could be translated as "perfectly good and just" or "always acting rightly."
• God's "righteousness" could also be translated as "perfect faithfulness and goodness."
• When it describes people who are obedient to God, the term "righteous" could also be translated as "morally good" or "just" or "living a God-pleasing life."
• The phrase "the righteous" could also be translated as "righteous people" or "God-fearing people."
• Depending on the context, "righteousness" could also be translated with a word or phrase that means "goodness" or "being perfect before God" or "acting in a right way by obeying God" or "doing perfectly good

• Sometimes "the righteous" was used figuratively and referred to "people who think they are good" or "people who seem to be righteous."

• The term "unrighteous" could simply be translated as "not righteous."
• Depending on the context, other ways to translate this could include "wicked" or "immoral" or "people who rebel against God" or "sinful."
• The phrase "the unrighteous" could be translated as "unrighteous people."
• The term "unrighteousness" could be translated as "sin" or "evil thoughts and actions" or "wickedness."

• If possible, it is best to translate this in a way that shows its relationship to "righteous, righteousness."

• Ways to translate "upright" could include "acting rightly" or "one who acts rightly" or "following God's laws" or "obedient to God" or "behaving in a way that is right."
• The term "uprightness" could be translated as "moral purity" or "good moral conduct" or "rightness."
• The phrase "the upright" could be translated as "people who are upright" or "upright people."

(See also: evil, faithful, good, holy, integrity, just, law, law, obey, pure, righteous, sin, unlawful)

Bible References:

• Deuteronomy 19:15-16
• Job 01:6-8
• Psalms 037:28-30
• Psalms 049:14-15
• Psalms 107:41-43
• Ecclesiastes 12:10-11
• Isaiah 48:1-2
• Ezekiel 33:12-13
• Malachi 02:5-7
• Matthew 06:1-2
• Acts 03:13-14
• Romans 01:29-31
• 1 Corinthians 06:9-11
• Galatians 03:6-9
• Colossians 03:22-25
• 2 Thessalonians 02:8-10
• 2 Timothy 03:16-17
• 1 Peter 03:18-20
• 1 John 01:8-10
• 1 John 05:16-17

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 03:02 But Noah found favor with God. He was a righteous man, living among wicked people.
• 04:08 God declared that Abram was righteous because he believed in God's promise.
• 17:02 David was a humble and righteous man who trusted and obeyed God.
• 23:01 Joseph, the man Mary was engaged to, was a righteous man.
• 50:10 Then the righteous ones will shine like the sun in the kingdom of God their Father."

Word Data:

• Strong's: H205, H1368, H2555, H3072, H3474, H3476, H3477, H3483, H4334, H4339, H4749, H5228, H5229, H5324, H5765, H5766, H5767, H5977, H6662, H6663, H6664, H6665, H6666, H6968, H8535, H8537, H8549, H8552, G93, G94, G458, G1341, G1342, G1343, G1344, G1345, G1346, G2118, G3716, G3717

ruin, ruins, ruined

Definition:

To "ruin" something means to spoil, destroy, or cause to be useless. The term "ruin" or "ruins" refers to the rubble and spoiled remains of something that has been destroyed.

• The prophet Zephaniah spoke about the day of God's wrath as a "day of ruin" when the world will be judged and punished.
• The book of Proverbs says that ruin and destruction await those who are ungodly.
• Depending on the context, to "ruin" could be translated as to "destroy" or to "spoil" or to "make useless" or to "break."
• The term "ruin" or "ruins" could be translated as "rubble" or "broken-down buildings" or "destroyed city" or "devastation" or "brokenness" or "destruction," depending on the context.

Bible References:

• 2 Chronicles 12:7-8
• 2 Kings 19:25-26
• Acts 15:15-18
• Isaiah 23:13-14

Word Data:

• Strong's: H6, H1197, H1530, H1820, H1942, H2034, H2040, H2717, H2719, H2720, H2723, H2930, H3510, H3765, H3782, H3832, H4072, H4288, H4383, H4384, H4654, H4658, H4876, H4889, H5221, H5557, H5754, H5856, H6365, H7451, H7489, H7582, H7591, H7612, H7701, H7703, H7843, H8047, H8074, H8077, H8414, H8510, G2679, G2692, G3639, G4485

Satan, devil, evil one

Facts:

Although the devil is a spirit being that God created, he rebelled against God and became God's enemy. The devil is also called "Satan" and "the evil one."

• The devil hates God and all that God created because he wants to take the place of God and be worshiped as God.
• Satan tempts people to rebel against God.
• God sent his Son, Jesus, to rescue people from Satan's control.
• The name "Satan" means "adversary" or "enemy."
• The word "devil" means "accuser."

Translation Suggestions:

• The word "devil" could also be translated as "the accuser" or "the evil one" or "the king of evil spirits" or "the chief evil spirit."
• "Satan" could be translated as "Opponent" or "Adversary" or some other name that shows that he is the devil.
• These terms should be translated differently from demon and evil spirit.
• Consider how these terms are translated in a local or national language.

(See: How to Translate Unknowns)

(Translation suggestions: How to Translate Names)

(See also: demon, evil, kingdom of God, tempt)

Bible References:

• 1 John 03:7-8
• 1 Thessalonians 02:17-20
• 1 Timothy 05:14-16
• Acts 13:9-10
• Job 01:6-8
• Mark 08:33-34
• Zechariah 03:1-3

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 21:01 The snake who deceived Eve was Satan. The promise meant that the Messiah who would come would defeat Satan completely.
• 25:06 Then Satan showed Jesus all the kingdoms of the world and all their glory and said, "I will give you all this if you bow down and worship me."
• 25:08 Jesus did not give in to Satan's temptations, so Satan left him.
• 33:06 So Jesus explained, "The seed is the word of God. The path is a person who hears God's word, but does not understand it, and the devil takes the word from him."
• 38:07 After Judas took the bread, Satan entered into him.
• 48:04 God promised that one of Eve's descendants would crush Satan's head, and Satan would wound his heel. This meant that Satan would kill the Messiah, but God would raise him to life again, and then the Messiah will crush the power of Satan forever.
• 49:15 God has taken you out of Satan's kingdom of darkness and put you into God's kingdom of light.
• 50:09 "The weeds represent the people who belong to the evil one. The enemy who planted the weeds represents the devil."
• 50:10 "When the world ends, the angels will gather together all the people who belong to the devil and throw them into a raging fire, where they will cry and grind their teeth in terrible suffering."
• 50:15 When Jesus returns, he will completely destroy Satan and his kingdom. He will throw Satan into hell where he will burn forever, along with everyone who chose to follow him rather than to obey God.

Word Data:

• Strong's: H7700, H7854, H8163, G1139, G1140, G1141, G1142, G1228, G4190, G4566, G4567

seed, semen

Definition:

A seed is the part of a plant that gets planted in the ground to reproduce more of the same kind of plant. It also has several figurative meanings.

• The term "seed" is used figuratively and euphemistically to refer to the tiny cells inside a man that combine with cells of a woman to cause a baby to grow inside her. A collection of these is called semen.
• Related to this, "seed" is also used to refer to a person's offspring or descendants.
• This word often has a plural meaning, referring to more than one seed grain or more than one descendant.
• In the parable of the farmer planting seeds, Jesus compared his seeds to the Word of God, which is planted in people's hearts in order to produce good spiritual fruit.
• The apostle Paul also uses the term "seed" to refer to the Word of God.

Translation Suggestions:

• For a literal seed, it is best to use the literal term for "seed" that is used in the target language for what a farmer plants in his field.
• The literal term should also be used in contexts where it refers figuratively to God's Word.
• For the figurative use that refers to people who are of the same family line, it may be more clear to use the word "descendant" or "descendants" instead of seed. Some languages may have a word that means "children and grandchildren."
• For a man or woman's "seed," consider how the target expresses this in a way that will not offend or embarrass people. (See: euphemism)

(See also: descendant, offspring)

Bible References:

• 1 Kings 18:30-32
• Genesis 01:11-13
• Jeremiah 02:20-22
• Matthew 13:7-9

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2232, H2233, H2234, H3610, H6507, G4615, G4687, G4690, G4701, G4703

enslave, enslaves, enslaved, servant, servants, slave, slaves, slaved, slavery, maidservants, serve, serves, served, serving, service, services, eyeservice

Definition:

The word for "servant" can also mean "slave" and refers to a person who works for another person, either by choice or by force. The surrounding text usually makes it clear whether a person is a servant or a slave. The word for "serve" means to do things to help other people. It can also mean to "worship." In Bible times, there was less of a difference between a servant and a slave than there is today. Both servants and slaves were an important part of their master's household and many were treated almost like members of the family. Sometimes a servant would choose to become a lifetime servant to his master.

• A slave was a kind of servant who was the property of the person he worked for. The person who bought a slave was called his "owner" or "master." Some masters treated their slaves very cruelly, while other masters treated their slaves very well, as a servant who was a valued member of the household.
• In ancient times, some people willingly became slaves to a person they owed money to in order to pay off their debt to that person.
• In the context of a person serving guests, this term means "care for" or "serve food to" or "provide food for." When Jesus told the disciples to "serve" the fish to the people, this could be translated as, "distribute" or "hand out" or "give."
• In the Bible, the phrase "I am your servant" was used as a sign of respect and service to a person of higher rank, such as a king. It did not mean that the person speaking was an actual servant.
• The term "serve" can also be translated as "minister to" or "work for" or "take care of" or "obey," depending on the context.
• In the Old Testament, God's prophets and other people who worshiped God were often referred to as his "servants."
• To "serve God" can be translated as to "worship and obey God" or to "do the work that God has commanded."
• In the New Testament, people who obeyed God through faith in Christ were often called his "servants."
• To "serve tables" means to bring food to people who are sitting at tables, or more generally, to "distribute food."
• People who teach others about God are said to serve both God and the ones they are teaching.
• The apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthian Christians about how they used to "serve" the old covenant. This refers to obeying the laws of Moses. Now they "serve" the new covenant. That is, because of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, believers in Jesus are enabled by the Holy Spirit to please God and live holy lives.
• Paul talks about their actions in terms of their "service" to either the old or new covenant. This could be translated as "serving" or "obeying" or "devotion to."
• Christians are also called "slaves to righteousness," which is a metaphor that compares the commitment to obey God to a slave's commitment to obey his master.

(See also: commit, enslave, household, lord, obey, righteous, covenant, law,)

Bible References

• Acts 04:29-31
• Acts 10:7-8
• Colossians 01:7-8
• Colossians 03:22-25
• Genesis 21:10-11
• Luke 12:47-48
• Mark 09:33-35
• Matthew 10:24-25
• Matthew 13:27-28
• [2 Timothy 02:3-5](rc://en/tn/help/02 tim/02/03)
• Acts 06:2-4
• Genesis 25:23
• Luke 04:8
• Luke 12:37-38
• Luke 22:26-27
• Mark 08:7-10
• Matthew 04:10-11
• Matthew 06:24

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 06:01 When Abraham was very old and his son, Isaac, had grown to be a man, Abraham sent one of his servants back to the land where his relatives lived to find a wife for his son, Isaac.
• 08:04 The slave traders sold Joseph as a slave to a wealthy government official.
• 09:13 "I (God) will send you (Moses) to Pharaoh so that you can bring the Israelites out of their slavery in Egypt."
• 19:10 Then Elijah prayed, "O Yahweh, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, show us today that you are the God of Israel and that I am your servant."
• 29:03 "Since the servant could not pay the debt, the king said, 'Sell this man and his family as slaves to make payment on his debt.'"
• 35:06 "All my father's servants have plenty to eat, and yet here I am starving."
• 47:04 The slave girl kept yelling as they walked, "These men are servants of the Most High God.
• 50:04 Jesus also said, "A servant is not greater than his master."

Word Data:

• (Servant) Strong's: H5288, H5647, H5649, H5650, H5657, H7916, H8198, H8334, G1249, G1401, G1402, G2324, G3407, G3411, G3610, G3816, G4983, G5257
• (Serve) H327, H3547, H4929, H4931, H5647, H5656, H5673, H5975, H6213, H6399, H6402, H6440, H6633, H6635, H7272, H8104, H8120, H8199, H8278, H8334, G1247, G1248, G1398, G1402, G1438, G1983, G2064, G2212, G2323, G2999, G3000, G3009, G4337, G4342, G4754, G5087, G5256

set apart

Definition:

The term "set apart" means separated from something to fulfill a certain purpose. Also, to "set apart" some person or thing means to make it "set apart."

• The Israelites were set apart for service to God.
• The Holy Spirit commanded the Christians at Antioch to set apart Paul and Barnabas for the work God wanted them to do.
• A believer who is "set apart" for service to God is "dedicated to" fulfilling God's will.
• One meaning of the term "holy" is to be set apart as belonging to God and being separated from the sinful ways of the world.
• To "sanctify" someone means to set apart that person for God's service.

Translation Suggestions:

• Ways to translate to "set apart" could include to "specially select" or to "separate from among you" or to "take aside to do a special task."
• To "be set apart" could be translated as "be separated (from)" or "be specially appointed (for)."

(See also: holy, sanctify, appoint)

Bible References:

• Ephesians 03:17-19
• Exodus 31:12-15
• Judges 17:12-13
• Numbers 03:11-13
• Philippians 01:1-2
• Romans 01:1-3

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2764, H4390, H5674, H6918, H6942, H6944, G37, G38, G40, G873

shame, shames, shamed, shameful, shamefully, shameless, shamelessly, ashamed, unashamed

Definition:

The term "shame" refers to a painful feeling of being disgraced a person has because of something dishonorable or improper that he or someone else has done.

• Something that is "shameful" is "improper" or "dishonorable."
• The term "ashamed" describes how a person feels when he has done something shameful.
• The phrase "put to shame" means to defeat people or expose their sin so that they feel ashamed of themselves.
• The prophet Isaiah said that those who make and worship idols will be put to shame.
• God can bring shame to a person who does not repent by exposing that person's sin and causing him to be humiliated.

(See also: false god, humble, humiliate, Isaiah, repent, sin, worship)

Bible References:

• 1 Peter 03:15-17
• 2 Kings 02:17-18
• 2 Samuel 13:13-14
• Luke 20:11-12
• Mark 08:38
• Mark 12:4-5

Word Data:

• Strong's: H937, H954, H955, H1317, H1322, H2616, H2659, H2781, H3001, H3637, H3639, H3640, H6172, H7022, H7036, H8103, H8106, G127, G149, G152, G153, G422, G808, G818, G819, G821, G1788, G1791, G1870, G2617, G3856, G5195

silver

Definition:

Silver is a shiny, gray precious metal used to make coins, jewelry, containers, and ornaments.

• The various containers that are made include silver cups and bowls, and other things used for cooking, eating, or serving.
• Silver and gold were used in the building of the tabernacle and the temple.The temple in Jerusalem had containers made of silver.
• In Bible times, a shekel was a unit of weight, and a purchase was often priced at a certain number of shekels of silver. By New Testament times there were silver coins of various weights that were measured in shekels.
• Joseph's brothers sold him as a slave for twenty shekels of silver.
• Judas was paid thirty silver coins for betraying Jesus.

(See also: tabernacle, temple)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 18:9-11
• 1 Samuel 02:36
• 2 Kings 25:13-15
• Acts 03:4-6
• Matthew 26:14-16

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3701, H3702, H7192, G693, G694, G695, G696, G1406

snare, snares, ensnare, ensnares, ensnared, entrap, trap, traps, trapped

Definition:

The terms "snare" and "trap" refer to devices that are used to catch animals and keep them from escaping. To "snare" or "ensnare" is to catch with a snare, and to "trap" or "entrap" is to catch with a trap. In the Bible, these terms were also used figuratively to talk about how sin and temptation are like hidden traps that catch people and harm them.

• A "snare" is a loop of rope or wire that suddenly pulls tight when an animal steps into it, ensnaring its leg.
• A "trap" is usually made of metal or wood and has two parts that suddenly and powerfully close together, catching an animal so it can't get away. Sometimes a trap can be a deep hole that has been made in order to get something to fall into it.
• Usually the snare or trap is hidden so that its prey is taken by surprise.
• The phrase "set a trap" means to get a trap ready to capture something.
• To "fall into a trap" refers to falling into a deep hole or pit that was dug and hidden in order to catch an animal.
• A person who is starts sinning and cannot stop can be described as "ensnared by sin" in a figurative reference to the way an animal can be ensnared and cannot escape.
• Just as an animal is endangered and hurt by being in a trap, so a person caught in the trap of sin is being harmed by that sin and needs to be set free.

(See also: free, , prey, Satan, tempt)

Bible References:

• Ecclesiastes 07:26
• Luke 21:34-35
• Mark 12:13-15
• Psalms 018:4-5

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2256, H3353, H3369, H3920, H3921, H4170, H4204, H4434, H4685, H4686, H4889, H5367, H5914, H6315, H6341, H6351, H6354, H6679, H6983, H7639, H7845, H8610, G64, G1029, G2339, G2340, G3802, G3803, G3985, G4625

suffer, suffers, suffered, suffering, sufferings

Definition:

The terms "suffer" and "suffering" refer to experiencing something very unpleasant, such as illness, pain, or other hardships.

• When people are persecuted or when they are sick, they suffer.
• Sometimes people suffer because of wrong things they have done; other times they suffer because of sin and disease in the world.
• Suffering can be physical, such as feeling pain or sickness. It can also be emotional, such as feeling fear, sadness, or loneliness.
• The phrase "suffer me" means "bear with me" or "hear me out" or "listen patiently."

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "suffer" can be translated as "feel pain" or "endure difficulty" or "experience hardships" or "go through difficult and painful experiences."
• Depending on the context, "suffering" could be translated as "extremely difficult circumstances" or "severe hardships" or "experiencing hardship" or "time of painful experiences."
• The phrase "suffer thirst" could be translated as "experience thirst" or "suffer with thirst."
• To "suffer violence" could also be translated as "undergo violence" or "be harmed by violent acts."

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 02:14-16
• 2 Thessalonians 01:3-5
• 2 Timothy 01:8-11
• Acts 07:11-13
• Isaiah 53:10-11
• Jeremiah 06:6-8
• Matthew 16:21-23
• Psalms 022:24-25
• Revelation 01:9-11
• Romans 05:3-5

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 09:13 God said, "I have seen the suffering of my people."
• 38:12 Jesus prayed three times, "My Father, if it is possible, please let me not have to drink this cup of suffering."
• 42:03 He (Jesus) reminded them that the prophets said the Messiah would suffer and be killed, but would rise again on the third day.
• 42:07 He (Jesus) said, "It was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer, die, and rise from the dead on the third day."
• 44:05 "Although you did not understand what you were doing, God used your actions to fulfill the prophecies that the Messiah would suffer and die."
• 46:04 God said, "I have chosen him (Saul) to declare my name to the unsaved. I will show him how much he must suffer for my sake."
• 50:17 He (Jesus) will wipe away every tear and there will be no more suffering, sadness, crying, evil, pain, or death.

Word Data:

• Strong's: H943, H1741, H1934, H4342, H4531, H4912, H5142, H5254, H5375, H5999, H6031, H6040, H6041, H6064, H6090, H6770, H6869, H6887, H7661, G91, G941, G971, G2210, G2346, G2347, G3804, G3958, G4310, G4778, G4841, G5004, G5723

teach, teaches, taught, teaching, teachings, untaught

Definition:

To "teach" someone is to tell him something he doesn’t already know. It can also mean to "provide information" in general, with no reference to the person who is learning. Usually the information is given in a formal or systematic way. A person’s "teaching" is or his "teachings" are what he has taught.

• A "teacher" is someone who teaches. The past action of "teach" is "taught."
• When Jesus was teaching, he was explaining things about God and his kingdom.
• Jesus' disciples called him "Teacher" as a respectful form of address for someone who taught people about God.
• The information that is being taught can be shown or spoken.
• The term "doctrine" refers to a set of teachings from God about himself as well as God's instructions about how to live. This could also be translated as "teachings from God" or "what God teaches us."
• The phrase "what you have been taught" could also be translated as, "what these people have taught you" or "what God has taught you," depending on the context.
• Other ways to translate "teach" could include "tell" or "explain" or "instruct."
• Often this term can be translated as "teaching people about God."

(See also: instruct, teacher, word of God)

Bible References:

• 1 Timothy 01:3-4
• Acts 02:40-42
• John 07:14-16
• Luke 04:31-32
• Matthew 04:23-25
• Psalms 032:7-8

Word Data:

• Strong's: H502, H2094, H2449, H3045, H3046, H3256, H3384, H3925, H3948, H7919, H8150, G1317, G1321, G1322, G2085, G2605, G2727, G3100, G2312, G2567, G3811, G4994

true, truth, truths

Definition:

The term "truth" refers to one or more concepts that are facts, events that actually happened, and statements that were actually said. Such concepts are said to be "true."

• True things are real, genuine, actual, rightful, legitimate, and factual.
• The truth is an understanding, belief, fact, or statement that is true.
• To say that a prophecy "came true" or "will come true" mean that it actually happened as predicted or that it will happen that way.
• Truth includes the concept of acting in a way that is reliable and faithful.
• Jesus revealed God's truth in the words that he spoke.
• God's word is truth. It tells about things that actually happened and teaches what is true about God and about everything he has made.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context and what is being described, the term "true" could also be translated by "real" or "factual" or "correct" or "right" or "certain" or "genuine."
• Ways to translate the term "truth" could include "what is true" or "fact" or "certainty" or "principle."
• The expression "come true" could also be translated as "actually happen" or "be fulfilled" or "happen as predicted."
• The expression "tell the truth" or "speak the truth" could also be translated as "say what is true" or "tell what really happened" or "say things that are reliable."
• To "accept the truth" could be translated as "believe what is true about God."
• In an expression such as "worship God in spirit and in truth," the expression "in truth" could also be translated by "faithfully obeying what God has taught us."

(See also: believe, faithful, fulfill, obey, prophet, understand)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 05:6-8
• 1 John 01:5-7
• 1 John 02:7-8
• 3 John 01:5-8
• Acts 26:24-26
• Colossians 01:4-6
• Genesis 47:29-31
• James 01:17-18
• James 03:13-14
• James 05:19-20
• Jeremiah 04:1-3
• John 01:9
• John 01:16-18
• John 01:49-51
• John 03:31-33
• Joshua 07:19-21
• Lamentations 05:19-22
• Matthew 08:8-10
• Matthew 12:15-17
• Psalm 026:1-3
• Revelation 01:19-20
• Revelation 15:3-4

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 02:04 The snake responded to the woman, "That is not true! You will not die."
• 14:06 Immediately Caleb and Joshua, the other two spies, said, "It is true that the people of Canaan are tall and strong, but we can certainly defeat them!"
• 16:01 The Israelites began to worship the Canaanite gods instead of Yahweh, the true God.
• 31:08 They worshiped Jesus, saying to him, "Truly, you are the Son of God."
• 39:10 "I have come to earth to tell the truth about God. Everyone who loves the truth listens to me." Pilate said, "What is truth?"

Word Data:

• Strong's: H199, H389, H403, H529, H530, H543, H544, H551, H571, H935, H3321, H3330, H6237, H6656, H6965, H7187, H7189, G225, G226, G227, G228, G230, G1103, G3303, G3483, G3689, G4103, G4137

trust, trusts, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness

Definition:

To "trust" something or someone is to believe that the thing or person is true or dependable. That belief is also called "trust." A "trustworthy" person is one you can trust to do and say what is right and true, and therefore one who has the quality of "trustworthiness."

• Trust is closely related to faith. If we trust someone, we have faith in that person to do what they promised to do.
• Having trust in someone also means depending on that person.
• To "trust in" Jesus means to believe that he is God, to believe that he died on the cross to pay for our sins, and to rely on him to save us.
• A "trustworthy saying" refers to something that is said that can be counted on to be true.

Translation Suggestions:

• Ways to translate "trust" could include "believe" or "have faith" or "have confidence" or "depend on."
• The phrase "put your trust in" is very similar in meaning to "trust in."
• The term "trustworthy" could be translated as "dependable" or "reliable" or "can always be trusted."

(See also: believe, confidence, faith, faithful, true)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 09:22-24
• 1 Timothy 04:9-10
• Hosea 10:12-13
• Isaiah 31:1-2
• Nehemiah 13:12-14
• Psalm 031:5-7
• Titus 03:8

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 12:12 When the Israelites saw that the Egyptians were dead, they trusted in God and believed that Moses was a prophet of God.
• 14:15 Joshua was a good leader because he trusted and obeyed God.
• 17:02 David was a humble and righteous man who trusted and obeyed God.
• 34:06 Then Jesus told a story about people who trusted in their own good deeds and despised other people.

Word Data:

• Strong's: H539, H982, H1556, H2620, H2622, H3176, H4009, H4268, H7365, G1679, G3872, G3982, G4006, G4100, G4276

understand, understands, understood, understanding

Definition:

The term "understand" means to hear or receive information and know what it means.

• The term "understanding" can refer to "knowledge" or "wisdom" or realizing how to do something.
• To understand someone can also mean to know how that person is feeling.
• While walking on the road to Emmaus, Jesus caused the disciples to understand the meaning of the scriptures about the Messiah.
• Depending on the context, the term "understand" could be translated by "know" or "believe" or "comprehend" or "know what (something) means."
• Often the term "understanding" can be translated by "knowledge" or "wisdom" or "insight."

(See also: believe, know, wise)

Bible References:

• Job 34:16-17
• Luke 02:45-47
• Luke 08:9-10
• Matthew 13:10-12
• Matthew 13:13-14
• Proverbs 03:5-6

Word Data:

• Strong's: H995, H998, H999, H1847, H2940, H3045, H3820, H3824, H4486, H7200, H7306, H7919, H7922, H7924, H8085, H8394, G50, G145, G191, G801, G1097, G1107, G1108, G1271, G1921, G1922, G1987, G1990, G2657, G3129, G3539, G3563, G3877, G4441, G4907, G4908, G4920, G5424, G5428, G5429, G6063

soldier, soldiers, warrior, warriors

Facts:

The terms "warrior" and "soldier" both can refer to someone who fights in an army. But there are also some differences.

• Usually the term "warrior" is a general, broad term to refer to a man who is gifted and courageous in battle.
• Yahweh is figuratively described as a "warrior."
• The term "soldier" more specifically refers to someone who belongs to a certain army or who is fighting in a certain battle.
• Roman soldiers in Jerusalem were there to keep order and to carry out duties such as executing prisoners. They guarded Jesus before crucifying him and some were ordered to stand guard at his tomb.
• The translator should consider whether there are two words in the project language for "warrior" and "soldier" that also differ in meaning and use.

(See also: courage, crucify, Rome, tomb)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 21:4-5
• Acts 21:32-33
• Luke 03:14
• Luke 23:11-12
• Matthew 08:8-10

Word Data:

• Strong's: , H352, H510, H1368, H1416, H1995, H2389, H2428, H2502, H3715, H4421, H5431, H5971, H6518, H6635, H7273, H7916, G4686, G4753, G4754, G4757, G4758, G4961

corrupt witness, false report, false testimony, false witness, false witnesses

Definition:

The terms "false witness" and "corrupt witness" refer to a person who says untrue things about a person or an event, usually in a formal setting such as a court.

• A "false testimony" or "false report" is the actual lie that is told.
• To "bear false witness" means to lie or give a false report about something.
• The Bible gives several accounts in which false witnesses were hired to lie about someone in order to have that person punished or killed.

Translation Suggestions:

• To "bear false witness" or "give a false testimony" could be translated as "testify falsely" or "give a false report about someone" or "speak falsely against someone" or "lie."
• When "false witness" refers to a person, it could be translated as "person who lies" or "one who testifies falsely" or "someone who says things that are not true."

(See also: testimony, true)

Bible References:

• Deuteronomy 19:17-19
• Exodus 20:15-17
• Matthew 15:18-20
• Matthew 19:18-19
• Proverbs 14:5-6
• Psalms 027:11-12

Word Data:

• Strong's: H5707, H6030, H7650, H8267, G1965, G3144, G5571, G5575, G5576, G5577

sword, swords, swordsmen

Definition:

A sword is a flat-bladed metal weapon used to cut or stab. It has a handle and a long, pointed blade with a very sharp cutting edge.

• In ancient times the length of a sword’s blade was about 60 to 91 centimeters.
• Some swords have two sharp edges and are called "double-edged" or "two-edged" swords.
• Jesus' disciples had swords for self defense. With his sword, Peter cut off the ear of the high priest's servant.
• Both John the Baptist and the apostle James were beheaded with swords.

Translation Suggestions

• A sword is used as a metaphor for God's word. God's teachings in the Bible exposed people's innermost thoughts and convicted them of their sin. In a similar way, a sword cuts deeply, causing pain. (See: Metaphor)
• One way to translate this figurative use would be, "God's word is like a sword, which cuts deeply and exposes sin."
• Another figurative use of this term occurred in the book of Psalms, where the tongue or speech of a person was compared to a sword, which can injure people. This could be translated as "the tongue is like a sword that can badly injure someone."
• If swords are not known in your culture, this word could be translated with the name of another long-bladed weapon that is used to cut or stab.
• A sword could also be described as a "sharp weapon" or "long knife." Some translations could include a picture of a sword.

(See also: How to Translate Unknowns)

(See also: James (brother of Jesus), John (the Baptist), tongue, word of God)

Bible References:

• Acts 12:1-2
• Genesis 27:39-40
• Genesis 34:24-26
• Luke 02:33-35
• Luke 21:23-24
• Matthew 10:34-36
• Matthew 26:55-56
• Revelation 01:14-16

Word Data:

• Strong's: H19, H1300, H2719, H4380, H6609, H7524, H7973, G3162, G4501

word of God, words of God, word of Yahweh, word of the Lord, word of truth, scripture, scriptures

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "word of God" refers to anything that God has communicated to people. This includes spoken and written messages. Jesus is also called "the Word of God."

• The term "scriptures" means "writings." It is only used in the New Testament and refers to the Hebrew scriptures, which is the Old Testament. These writings were God's message that he had told people to write down so that many years in the future people could still read it.
• The related terms "word of Yahweh" and "word of the Lord" often refer to a specific message from God that was given to a prophet or other person in the Bible.
• Sometimes this term occurs as simply "the word" or "my word" or "your word" (when talking about God's word).
• In the New Testament, Jesus is called "the Word" and "the Word of God." These titles mean that Jesus fully reveals who God is, because he is God himself.

The term "word of truth" is another way of referring to "God's word," which is his message or teaching. It does not refer to just one word.

• God's word of truth includes everything that God has taught people about himself, his creation, and his plan of salvation through Jesus.
• This term emphasizes the fact that what God has told us is true, faithful, and real.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, other ways to translate this term could include "the message of Yahweh" or "God's message" or "the teachings from God."
• It may be more natural in some languages to make this term plural and say "God's words" or "the words of Yahweh."
• The expression "the word of Yahweh came" is often used to introduce something that God told his prophets or his people. This could be translated as "Yahweh spoke this message" or "Yahweh spoke these words."
• The term "scripture" or "scriptures" could be translated as "the writings" or "the written message from God." This term should be translated differently from the translation of the term "word."
• When "word" occurs alone and it refers to God's word, it could be translated as "the message" or "God's word" or "the teachings." Also consider the alternate translations suggested above.

• When the Bible refers to Jesus as "the Word," this term could be translated as "the Message" or "the Truth."

• "Word of truth" could be translated as "God's true message" or "God's word, which is true."
• It is important for the translation of this term to include the meaning of being true.

(See also: prophet, true, word, Yahweh)

Bible References:

• Genesis 15:1-3
• 1 Kings 13:1-3
• Jeremiah 36:1-3
• Luke 08:11-13
• John 05:39-40
• Acts 06:2-4
• Acts 12:24-25
• Romans 01:1-3
• 2 Corinthians 06:4-7
• Ephesians 01:13-14
• 2 Timothy 03:16-17
• James 01:17-18
• James 02:8-9

Examples from the Bible stories:

• 25:07 In God's word he commands his people, 'Worship only the Lord your God and only serve him.'"
• 33:06 So Jesus explained, "The seed is the word of God.
• 42:03 Then Jesus explained to them what God's word says about the Messiah.
• 42:07 Jesus said, "I told you that everything written about me in God's word must be fulfilled." Then he opened their minds so they could understand God's word.
• 45:10 Philip also used other scriptures to tell him the good news of Jesus.
• 48:12 But Jesus is the greatest prophet of all. He is the Word of God.
• 49:18 God tells you to pray, to study his word, to worship him with other Christians, and to tell others what he has done for you.

Word Data:

• Strong's: H561, H565, H1697, H3068, G3056, G4487

works, deeds, work, acts

Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "works," "deeds," and "acts" are used to refer generally to things that God or people do.

• The term "work" refers to doing labor or anything that is done to serve other people.
• God's "works" and the "work of his hands" are expressions that refer to all the things he does or has done, including creating the world, saving sinners, providing for the needs of all creation and keeping the entire universe in place. The terms "deeds" and "acts" are also used to refer to God's miracles in expressions such as "mighty acts" or "marvelous deeds."
• The works or deeds that a person does can be either good or evil.
• The Holy Spirit empowers believers to do good works, which are also called "good fruit."
• People are not saved by their good works; they are saved through faith in Jesus.
• A person's "work" can be what he does to earn a living or to serve God. The Bible also refers to God as "working."

Translation Suggestions:

• Other ways to translate "works" or "deeds" could be "actions" or "things that are done."
• When referring to God's "works" or "deeds" and the "work of his hands," these expressions could also be translated as "miracles" or "mighty acts" or "amazing things he does."
• The expression "the work of God" could be translated as "the things that God is doing" or "the miracles God does" or "the amazing things that God does" or "everything God has accomplished."
• The term "work" can just be the singular of "works" as in "every good work" or "every good deed."
• The term "work" can also have the broader meaning of "service" or "ministry." For example, the expression "your work in the Lord" could also be translated as, "what you do for the Lord."
• The expression "examine your own work" could also be translated as "make sure what you are doing is God's will" or "make sure that what you are doing pleases God."
• The expression "the work of the Holy Spirit" could be translated as "the empowering of the Holy Spirit" or "the ministry of the Holy Spirit" or "the things that the Holy Spirit does."

(See also: fruit, Holy Spirit, miracle)

Bible References:

• 1 John 03:11-12
• Acts 02:8-11
• Daniel 04:36-37
• Exodus 34:10-11
• Galatians 02:15-16
• James 02:14-17
• Matthew 16:27-28
• Micah 02:6-8
• Romans 03:27-28
• Titus 03:4-5

Word Data:

• Strong's: H4566, H4567, H4611, H4659, H5949, G2041