What is the Meaning of Bible Words
with Greek and Hebrew Words?
The Bible, as the holy scripture of Christianity, was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Understanding the meanings of key Bible words in their original languages—Hebrew for the Old Testament and Greek for the New Testament—can deepen our understanding of the Bible and its teachings. By studying the original languages in which the Bible was written, we gain a clearer insight into God’s message and how it applies to our lives today.
Here is a deep explanation of some common Bible words in Hebrew and Greek, along with their meanings and significance in the Bible.
Hebrew Words in the Old Testament
The Hebrew Bible is primarily the Old Testament, and Hebrew is the language in which most of the Old Testament was written. While the New Testament is written in Greek, the Old Testament uses Hebrew and Aramaic.
1. Elohim (אֱלֹהִים) – “God”
- Meaning: The word “Elohim” is the Hebrew term for God, used frequently in the Old Testament. It is a plural form, often interpreted to denote the majesty and sovereignty of God, rather than suggesting multiple gods.
- Significance: Although it is a plural form, it refers to the one true God. It emphasizes God’s power and majesty. “Elohim” is first used in Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning, God (Elohim) created the heavens and the earth.”
2. Yahweh (יהוה) – “The LORD”
- Meaning: “Yahweh” is the personal name of God, often translated as “LORD” in English Bibles (all capital letters). It is derived from the Hebrew verb “to be” (היה), emphasizing God’s eternal, self-existent nature.
- Significance: “Yahweh” emphasizes that God is self-existent, eternal, and unchanging. It is used in the Bible to describe God’s covenant relationship with His people, Israel. Exodus 3:14 – “God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM.'”
3. Shalom (שָׁלוֹם) – “Peace”
- Meaning: “Shalom” is a common Hebrew word that means peace, but it also carries the broader meaning of wholeness, completeness, and well-being.
- Significance: In the Bible, “Shalom” represents not only the absence of conflict but the presence of God’s complete blessing in every area of life. It’s used as a greeting and a blessing among the Jewish people. Jeremiah 29:7 – “Seek the peace (Shalom) of the city where I have sent you…”
4. Chesed (חֶסֶד) – “Lovingkindness” or “Mercy“
- Meaning: “Chesed” refers to God’s covenant loyalty, mercy, and love toward His people. It is a deep, steadfast love that includes kindness, loyalty, and faithfulness.
- Significance: God’s chesed is a foundational aspect of His character, often used to describe His relationship with Israel and His actions toward them. Psalm 136:1 – “Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good. His lovingkindness (chesed) endures forever.”
5. Ruach (רוּחַ) – “Spirit” or “Breath”
- Meaning: “Ruach” means spirit, wind, or breath. It is used to refer to both the Holy Spirit and the breath of life.
- Significance: In the Old Testament, “Ruach” can refer to God’s spirit as well as the physical breath that gives life. It is seen in Genesis 1:2, where the Spirit of God (Ruach Elohim) is said to be hovering over the waters. Genesis 2:7 – “Then the LORD God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed (Ruach) into his nostrils the breath of life…”
Greek Words in the New Testament
The New Testament was written in Greek, and understanding the Greek words used in the New Testament can give us deeper insights into the teachings of Jesus and the apostles.
1. Agape (ἀγάπη) – “Love”
- Meaning: “Agape” is the Greek word for unconditional love, selfless love, and sacrificial love. It is the love that God has for humanity and the love that Christians are called to demonstrate toward others.
- Significance: Unlike the other Greek words for love (like eros for romantic love or philia for brotherly love), agape love is unconditional and based on a decision to act in someone’s best interest, regardless of emotions. John 3:16 – “For God so loved (agape) the world…”
2. Pneuma (πνεῦμα) – “Spirit”
- Meaning: “Pneuma” means spirit or breath, and it is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew word “Ruach.” It refers to the Holy Spirit and the spiritual realm.
- Significance: “Pneuma” is used throughout the New Testament to refer to the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity. It also can refer to the breath of life and to the immaterial soul of a person. John 3:8 – “The wind (pneuma) blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes…”
3. Ekklesia (ἐκκλησία) – “Church”
- Meaning: “Ekklesia” means assembly or gathering. In the New Testament, it is commonly translated as church, referring to the community of believers, the body of Christ.
- Significance: “Ekklesia” emphasizes the gathering of believers for worship, fellowship, and mutual encouragement. It highlights the collective aspect of the Christian faith. Matthew 16:18 – “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church (ekklesia)…”
4. Charis (χάρις) – “Grace”
- Meaning: “Charis” means grace, favor, or kindness. It refers to God’s unmerited favor and the undeserved gift of salvation and blessings.
- Significance: Grace is the unearned, unmerited favor of God that brings salvation. It is central to Christian theology, particularly in the concept of justification by grace through faith. Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace (charis) you have been saved through faith…”
5. Doulos (δοῦλος) – “Servant” or “Slave”
- Meaning: “Doulos” means servant or bond-servant. It refers to someone who willingly submits to the authority of another, often used in the context of Christians as servants of God.
- Significance: The New Testament emphasizes that Christians are slaves of Christ, meaning they have freely chosen to serve Him and submit to His will. Philippians 1:1 – “Paul and Timothy, servants (doulos) of Christ Jesus…”
6. Metanoia (μετάνοια) – “Repentance”
- Meaning: “Metanoia” means repentance or a change of mind. It involves a turning away from sin and a turning toward God.
- Significance: Repentance is a key concept in Christian faith, signifying the process of recognizing one’s sin, feeling remorse, and making a conscious decision to turn away from sin toward righteousness. Matthew 4:17 – “Repent (metanoia), for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
Conclusion: The Significance of Hebrew and Greek Words in Understanding the Bible
The Bible’s rich and nuanced meanings come to life when we study the original Hebrew and Greek words. These languages convey deeper insights into the character of God, His expectations for humanity, and the transformative power of Jesus Christ.
By delving into these words, we not only gain a clearer understanding of the historical and cultural context of Scripture, but we also unlock deeper spiritual truths that can transform our lives. As we grow in our understanding of God’s Word, we draw closer to Him and become more equipped to live according to His will.
Understanding the Bible in its original languages enriches our relationship with God and empowers us to live out His commands with greater clarity, purpose, and faithfulness.
