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Translation Words

Benjamin

Related Words:

Benjamite

Facts:

Benjamin was the youngest son born to Jacob and his wife Rachel. His name means, "son of my right hand."

• He and his older brother Joseph were the only children of Rachel, who died after Benjamin was born.
• The descendants of Benjamin became one of the twelve tribes of Israel.
• The term "Benjamite" refers to a person who belonged to the tribe of Benjamin.
• King Saul was from the Israelite tribe of Benjamin.
• The apostle Paul was also from the tribe of Benjamin.

(See also: Israel, Jacob, Joseph (OT), Paul, Rachel, twelve tribes of Israel)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 02:1-2
• 1 Kings 02:08
• Acts 13:21-22
• Genesis 35:18
• Genesis 42:04
• Genesis 42:35-36
• Philippians 03:4-5

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1144, G958

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Benjamin, Benjamin's, Benjamite, Benjamites

Book of Life

Definition:

The term "Book of Life" is used to refer to where God has written the names of all the people whom he has redeemed and given eternal life to.

• Revelation refers to this book as "the Lamb's Book of Life." This could be translated as "the book of life belonging to Jesus, the Lamb of God." The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross paid the penalty for people's sins so that they can have eternal life through faith in him.
• The word for "book" can also mean "scroll" or "letter" or "writing" or "legal document." It may be literal or figurative.

(See also: everlasting, lamb, life, sacrifice, scroll)

Bible References:

• Philippians 04:03
• Psalms 069:28-29
• Revelation 03:5-6
• Revelation 20:11-12

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2416, H5612, G976, G2222

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Book of Life

Caesar

Related Words:

the emperor

Facts:

The term "Caesar" was the name or title used by many of the rulers of the Roman Empire. In the Bible, this name refers to three different Roman rulers.

• The first Roman ruler named Caesar was "Caesar Augustus," who was ruling during the time that Jesus was born.
• About thirty years later, at the time when John the Baptist was preaching, Tiberius Caesar was the ruler of the Roman Empire.
• Tiberius Caesar was still ruling Rome when Jesus told the people to pay Caesar what was due him and to give to God what is due him.
• When Paul appealed to Caesar, this referred to the Roman emperor, Nero, who also had the title "Caesar."
• When "Caesar" is used by itself as a title, it can also be translated as: "the Emperor" or "the Roman Ruler."
• In names such as Caesar Augustus or Tiberius Caesar, "Caesar" can be spelled close to the way a national language spells it.
• An emperor is the ruler of an empire.

(See also: king, Paul, Rome)

Bible References:

• Acts 25:06
• Luke 02:01
• Luke 20:23-24
• Luke 23:02
• Mark 12:13-15
• Matthew 22:17
• Philippians 04:22

Word Data:

• Strong's: G2541, G4575

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Caesar, Caesar's, the emperor

Christ

Related Ideas:

Christ Jesus, Jesus Christ, Messiah

Facts:

The terms "Messiah" and "Christ" mean "Anointed One" and refer to Jesus, God's Son.

• Both "Messiah" and "Christ" are used in the New Testament to refer to God's Son, whom God the Father appointed to rule as king over his people, and to save them from sin and death.
• In the Old Testament, the prophets wrote prophecies about the Messiah hundreds of years before he came to earth.
• Often a word meaning "anointed (one)" is used in the Old Testament to refer to the Messiah who would come.
• Jesus fulfilled many of these prophecies and did many miraculous works that proves he is the Messiah; the rest of these prophecies will be fulfilled when he returns.
• The word "Christ" is often used as a title, as in "the Christ" and "Christ Jesus." "Christ" also came to be used as part of his name, as in "Jesus Christ." These names emphasize that God's Son is the Messiah, who will reign forever.
• Jesus the Messiah is the one who was chosen and anointed as a Prophet, High Priest, and King.

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.
• This term could be translated using its meaning, "the Anointed One" or "God's Anointed Savior."
• Many languages use a transliterated word that looks or sounds like "Christ" or "Messiah."
• The transliterated word could be followed by the definition of the term, as in "Christ, the Anointed One."
• Be consistent in how this is translated throughout the Bible so that it is clear that the same term is being referred to.
• Make sure the translations of "Messiah" and "Christ" work well in contexts where both terms occur in the same verse (such as John 1:41).

(See also: Son of God, David, Jesus, anoint)

Bible References:

• 1 John 05:1-3
• Acts 02:35
• Acts 05:40-42
• John 01:40-42
• John 03:27-28
• John 04:25
• Luke 02:10-12
• Matthew 01:16

Word Data:

• Strong's: H4899, G3323, G5547

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Christ, Christ Jesus, Jesus Christ, Messiah

Eve

Facts:

This was the name of the first woman. Her name means "life" or "living."

• God formed Eve from a rib that he took out of Adam.
• Eve was created to be Adam's "helper." She came alongside Adam to assist him in the work that God gave them to do.
• Eve was tempted by Satan (in the form of a snake) and was the first to sin by eating the fruit that God said not to eat.

(See also: Adam, life, Satan)

Bible References:

• 1 Timothy 02:13
• 2 Corinthians 11:03
• Genesis 03:20
• Genesis 04:02

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2332, G2096

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Eve, Eve's

God

Related Ideas:

the living God

Facts:

In the Bible, the term "God" refers to the eternal being who created the universe out of nothing. God exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God's personal name is "Yahweh."

• God has always existed; he existed before anything else existed, and he will continue to exist forever.
• He is the only true God and has authority over everything in the universe.
• God is perfectly righteous, infinitely wise, holy, sinless, just, merciful, and loving.
• He is a covenant-keeping God, who always fulfills his promises.
• People were created to worship God and he is the only one they should worship.
• God revealed his name as "Yahweh," which means "he is" or "I am" or "the One who (always) exists."
• The Bible also teaches about false "gods," which are nonliving idols that people wrongly worship.

Translation Suggestions:

• Ways to translate "God" could include "Deity" or "Creator" or "Supreme Being."
• Other ways to translate "God" could be "Supreme Creator" or "Infinite Sovereign Lord" or "Eternal Supreme Being."
• Consider how God is referred to in a local or national language. There may also already be a word for "God" in the language being translated. If so, it is important to make sure that this word fits the characteristics of the one true God as described above.
• Many languages capitalize the first letter of the word for the one true God, to distinguish it from the word for a false god.
• Another way to make this distinction would be to use different terms for "God" and "god."
• The phrase "I will be their God and they will be my people" could also be translated as "I, God, will rule over these people and they will worship me."

(See also: create, false god, God the Father, Holy Spirit, false god, Son of God, Yahweh)

Bible References:

• 1 John 01:07
• 1 Samuel 10:7-8
• 1 Timothy 04:10
• Colossians 01:16
• Deuteronomy 29:14-16
• Ezra 03:1-2
• Genesis 01:02
• Hosea 04:11-12
• Isaiah 36:6-7
• James 02:20
• Jeremiah 05:05
• John 01:03
• Joshua 03:9-11
• Lamentations 03:43
• Micah 04:05
• Philippians 02:06
• Proverbs 24:12
• Psalms 047:09

Word Data:

• Strong's: H136, H410, H426, H430, H433, H2623, H3069, H4136, H6697, G112, G516, G932, G935, G2098, G2124, G2128, G2152, G2153, G2299, G2304, G2312, G2314, G2315, G2316, G2317, G2318, G2319, G2320, G4151, G5207, G5377, G5463, G5537, G5538

Forms Found in the English ULB:

God, God's, the living God

God the Father

Related Ideas:

Father, heavenly Father, my Father

Facts:

The terms "God the Father" and "heavenly Father" refer to Yahweh, the one true God. Another term with the same meaning is "Father," used most often when Jesus was referring to him.

• God exists as God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Each one is fully God, and yet they are only one God. This is a mystery that mere humans cannot fully understand.
• God the Father sent God the Son (Jesus) into the world, and he sends the Holy Spirit to his people.
• Anyone who believes in God the Son becomes a child of God the Father, and God the Holy Spirit comes to live in that person. This is another mystery that human beings cannot fully understand.

Translation Suggestions:

• In translating the phrase "God the Father," it is best to translate "Father" with the same word that the language naturally uses to refer to a human father.
• The term "heavenly Father" could be translated by "Father who lives in heaven" or "Father God who lives in heaven" or "God our Father from heaven."
• Usually "Father" is capitalized when it refers to God.

(See also: ancestor, God, heaven, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Son of God)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 08:4-6
• 1 John 02:01
• 1 John 02:23
• 1 John 03:01
• Colossians 01:1-3
• Ephesians 05:18-21
• Luke 10:22
• Matthew 05:16
• Matthew 23:09

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1, H2, G3962

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Father, God the Father, heavenly Father, my Father

Greek

Related Words:

Grecian

Facts:

The term "Greek" refers to the language spoken in the country of Greece. It is also a person from the country of Greece. Greek was also spoken throughout the Roman Empire. The term "Grecian" means "Greek-speaking."

• Since most non-Jewish people in the Roman Empire spoke Greek, Gentiles are often referred to as "Greeks" in the New Testament, especially when contrasted with Jews.
• The phrase "Grecian Jews" referred to Jews who spoke Greek in contrast to the "Hebraic Jews" who spoke only Hebrew, or perhaps Aramaic.
• Other ways to translate "Grecian" could include, "Greek-speaking" or "culturally Greek" or "Greek."
• When referring to non-Jews, "Greek" could be translated as "Gentile."

(See also: Aram, Gentile, Greece, Hebrew, Rome)

Bible References:

• Acts 06:1
• Acts 09:29
• Acts 11:20
• Acts 14:1-2
• Colossians 03:11
• Galatians 02:3-5
• John 07:35

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3125, G1672, G1673, G1674, G1675, G1676

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Greek, Greeks, Grecian

Hebrew

Facts:

The "Hebrews" were people who were descended from Abraham through the line of Isaac and Jacob. Abraham is the first person in the Bible to be called a "Hebrew."

• The term "Hebrew" also refers to the language that the Hebrew people spoke. The vast majority of the Old Testament was written in the Hebrew language.
• In different places in the Bible, the Hebrews were also called "Jewish people" or "Israelites." It is best to keep all three terms distinct in the text, as long as it is clear that these terms refer to the same people group.

(See also: Israel, Jew, Jewish leaders)

Bible References:

• Acts 26:12-14
• Genesis 39:13-15
• Genesis 40:15
• Genesis 41:12-13
• John 05:1-4
• John 19:13
• Jonah 01:8-10
• Philippians 03:05

Word Data:

• Strong's: H5680, G1445, G1446, G1447

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Hebrew, Hebrews, Hebrews'

Israel

Related Ideas:

Israelite

Facts:

The term "Israel" is the name that God gave to Jacob. It means "he struggles with God."

• The descendants of Jacob became known as the "people of Israel" or the "nation of Israel" or the "Israelites."
• God formed his covenant with the people of Israel. They were his chosen people.
• The nation of Israel consisted of twelve tribes.
• Soon after King Solomon died, Israel was divided into two kingdoms: the southern kingdom, called "Judah," and the northern kingdom, called "Israel."
• Often the term "Israel" can be translated as "the people of Israel" or "the nation of Israel," depending on the context.

(See also: Jacob, kingdom of Israel, Judah, nation, twelve tribes of Israel)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 10:01
• 1 Kings 08:02
• Acts 02:36
• Acts 07:24
• Acts 13:23
• John 01:49-51
• Luke 24:21
• Mark 12:29
• Matthew 02:06
• Matthew 27:09
• Philippians 03:4-5

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3478, H3479, H3481, H3482, G935, G2474, G2475

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Israel, Israel's, Israelite, Israelite's, Israelites, Israelites'

Jesus

Related Ideas:

the Lord Jesus

Facts:

Jesus is God's Son. The name "Jesus" means "Yahweh saves."

• 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" is spelled in a way that keeps the sounds or spelling as close to the original as possible. For example, "Jesu," "Jezus," "Yesus", and "Hesu" are some of the ways that this name is translated into different languages.
• Also consider how this names are spelled in a nearby local or national language.

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

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 06:11
• 1 John 02:02
• 1 John 04:15
• 1 Timothy 01:02
• 2 Peter 01:02
• 2 Thessalonians 02:15
• 2 Timothy 01:10
• Acts 02:23
• Acts 05:30
• Acts 10:36
• Hebrews 09:14
• Hebrews 10:22
• Luke 24:20
• Matthew 01:21
• Matthew 04:03
• Philippians 02:05
• Philippians 02:10
• Philippians 04:21-23
• Revelation 01:06

Word Data:

• Strong's: G2424

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Jesus, the Lord Jesus

Macedonia

Related Words

Macedonian

Facts:

In New Testament times, Macedonia was a Roman province located just north of ancient Greece.

• Some important Macedonian cities mentioned in the Bible were Berea, Philippi and Thessalonica.
• Through a vision, God told Paul to preach the gospel to the people in Macedonia.
• Paul and his coworkers went to Macedonia and taught the people there about Jesus and helped the new believers to grow in their faith.
• In the Bible there are letters that Paul wrote to the believers in the Macedonian cities of Philippi and Thessalonica.

(See also: believe, Berea, faith, good news, Greece, Philippi, Thessalonica)

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 01:6-7
• 1 Thessalonians 04:10
• 1 Timothy 01:3-4
• Acts 16:10
• Acts 20:1-3
• Philippians 04:14-17

Word Data:

• Strong's: G3109, G3110

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Macedonia, Macedonians

Paul

Related Words

Saul

Facts:

Paul was a leader of the early church who was sent by Jesus to take the good news to many other people groups.

• Paul was a Jew who was born in the Roman city of Tarsus, and was therefore also a Roman citizen.
• Paul was originally called by his Jewish name, Saul.
• Saul became a Jewish religious leader and arrested Jews who became Christians because he thought they were dishonoring God by believing in Jesus.
• Jesus revealed himself to Saul in a blinding light and told him to stop hurting Christians.
• Saul believed in Jesus and began teaching his fellow Jews about him.
• Later, God sent Saul to teach non-Jewish people about Jesus and started churches in different cities and provinces of the Roman empire. At this time he started being called by the Roman name "Paul."
• Paul also wrote letters to encourage and teach Christians in the churches in these cities. Several of these letters are in the New Testament.

(See also: christian, jewish leaders, rome)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 01:03
• Acts 08:03
• Acts 09:26
• Acts 13:10
• Galatians 01:01
• Philemon 01:08

Word Data:

• Strong's: G3972, G4569

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Paul, Saul, Paul's

Pharisee

Facts:

The Pharisees were an important, powerful group of Jewish religious leaders in Jesus' time.

• Many of them were middle class businessmen and some of them were also priests.
• Of all the Jewish leaders, the Pharisees were the most strict in obeying the Laws of Moses and other Jewish laws and traditions.
• They were very concerned about keeping the Jewish people separated from the influence of the Gentiles around them. The name "Pharisee" comes from the word to "separate."
• The Pharisees believed in life after death; they also believed in the existence of angels and other spiritual beings.
• The Pharisees and Sadducees actively opposed Jesus and the early Christians.

(See also: council, Jewish leaders, law, Sadducee)

Bible References:

• Acts 26:04
• John 03:1-2
• Luke 11:44
• Matthew 03:07
• Matthew 05:20
• Matthew 09:11
• Matthew 12:02
• Matthew 12:38
• Philippians 03:05

Word Data:

• Strong's: G5330

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Pharisee, Pharisees

Philip

Facts:

In the early Christian church in Jerusalem, Philip was one of seven leaders chosen to care for the poor and needy Christians, especially the widows.

• God used Philip to share the gospel with people in many different towns in the provinces of Judea and Galilee, including an Ethiopian man he met on the desert road to Gaza from Jerusalem.
• Years later Philip was living in Caesarea when Paul and his companions stayed at his house on their way back to Jerusalem.
• Most Bible scholars think that Philip the evangelist was not the same man as Jesus' apostle by that name. Some languages may prefer to use slightly different spellings for the names of these two men to make it clear they are different men.

(See also: Philip)

Bible References:

• Acts 06:5-6
• Acts 08:06
• Acts 08:13
• Acts 08:31
• Acts 08:36
• Acts 08:40

Word Data:

• Strong's: G5376

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Philip, Philip the evangelist

Philip

Facts:

Philip the apostle was one of the original twelve disciples of Jesus. He was from the town of Bethsaida.

• Philip brought Nathanael to meet Jesus.
• Jesus questioned Philip about how to provide food for a crowd of over 5,000 people.
• At the last Passover supper that Jesus ate with his disciples, he talked to them about God, his Father. Philip asked Jesus to show them the Father.
• Some languages may prefer to spell this Philip's name in a different way from the other Philip (the evangelist) to avoid confusion.

(See also: Philip)

Bible References:

• Acts 01:14
• John 01:44
• John 06:06
• Luke 06:14
• Mark 03:17-19

Word Data:

• Strong's: G5376

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Philip, Philip the apostle, the apostle Philip

Philippi

Related Words

Philippians

Facts:

Philippi was a major city and Roman colony located in Macedonia in the northern part of ancient Greece. The people of Philippi were called "Philippians."

• Paul and Silas traveled to Philippi to preach about Jesus to the people there.
• While in Philippi, Paul and Silas were arrested, but God miraculously freed them.
• The New Testament book of Philippians is a letter that the apostle Paul wrote to the Christians in the church at Philippi.
• Note that this is a different city from Caesarea Philippi which was located in northeastern Israel near Mount Hermon.

(See also: Caesarea, Christian, church, Macedonia, Paul, Silas)

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 02:1-2
• Acts 16:11
• Matthew 16:13-16
• Philippians 01:01

Word Data:

• Strong's: G5374, G5375

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Philippi, Philippians

Savior

Definitions:

The term "savior" refers to a person who saves or rescues others from danger. It can also refer to someone who gives strength to others or provides for them.

• In the Old Testament, God is referred to as Israel's Savior because he often rescued them from their enemies, gave them strength, and provided them with what they needed to live.
• In the New Testament, "Savior" is used as a description or title for Jesus Christ because he saves people from being eternally punished for their sin. He also saves them from being controlled by their sin.

Translation Suggestions:

• If possible, "Savior" should be translated with a word that is related to the words "save" and "salvation."
• Ways to translate this term could include "the One who saves" or "God, who saves" or "who delivers from danger" or "who rescues from enemies" or "Jesus, the one who rescues (people) from sin."

(See also: deliver, Jesus, save, save)

Bible References:

• 1 Timothy 04:10
• 2 Peter 02:20
• Acts 05:29-32
• Isaiah 60:15-16
• Luke 01:47
• Psalms 106:19-21

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3467, G4990

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Savior, savior

Thessalonica

Facts:

In New Testament times, Thessalonica was the capital city of Macedonia in the ancient Roman empire. The people living in that city were called the "Thessalonians."

• The city of Thessalonica was an important seaport and was also located along a major road that connected Rome to the eastern part of the Roman empire.
• Paul, along with Silas and Timothy, visited Thessalonica on his second missionary journey and as a result, a church was established there. Later, Paul also visited this city on his third missionary journey.
• Paul wrote two letters to the Christians in Thessalonica. These letters (1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians) are included in the New Testament.

(See also: Macedonia, Paul, Rome)

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 01:1
• 2 Thessalonians 01:01
• 2 Timothy 04:9-10
• Acts 17:01
• Philippians 04:14-17

Word Data:

• Strong's: G2331, G2332

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Thessalonica, Thessalonian, Thessalonians

Timothy

Facts:

Timothy was a young man from Lystra. He later joined Paul on several missionary trips and helped shepherd new communities of believers.

• Timothy's father was a Greek, but both his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice were Jews and believers in Christ.
• The elders and Paul formally appointed Timothy for the ministry by placing their hands on him and praying for him.
• Two books in the New Testament (I Timothy and 2 Timothy) are letters written by Paul that provide guidance to Timothy as a young leader of local churches.

(See also: appoint, believe, church, Greek, minister)

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 03:02
• 1 Timothy 01:02
• Acts 16:03
• Colossians 01:01
• Philemon 01:01
• Philippians 01:01
• Philippians 02:19

Word Data:

• Strong's: G5095

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Timothy, Timothy's

age

Related Ideas:

aged, from ancient times, old age

Definition:

The term "age" refers to the length of time a person has lived. The term "aged" describes a person who is very old. The term "age" is also used to refer generally to a time period.

• Jesus refers to "this age" as the present time when evil, sin, and disobedience fill the earth.
• There will be a future age when righteousness will reign over a new heaven and a new earth.
• Other words used to express an extended period of time include "era" and "season."
• The phrase "ancient times" refers to times long ago.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, the term "age" could also be translated as "era" or "number of years old" or "time period" or "time."
• The phrase "at a very old age" could be translated as "when he was very old" or "when he had lived a very long time."
• The phrase "this present evil age" means "during this time right now when people are very evil."

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 29:28
• 1 Corinthians 02:07
• Hebrews 06:05
• Job 05:26

Word Data:

• Strong's: H5769, H7872, G165, G166, G1074

Forms Found in the English ULB:

age, aged, ages, from ancient times, old age

amen

Related Ideas:

let it be so

Definition:

The term "amen" is a word used to emphasize or call attention to what a person has said. It is often used at the end of a prayer. Sometimes it is translated as "truly."

• When used at the end of a prayer, "amen" communicates agreement with the prayer or expresses a desire that the prayer be fulfilled.
• In his teaching, Jesus used "amen" to emphasize the truth of what he said. He often followed that by "and I say to you" to introduce another teaching that related to the previous teaching.
• When Jesus uses "amen" this way, some English versions (and the ULB) translate this as "verily" or "truly."

Translation Suggestions:

• Consider whether the target language has a special word or phrase that is used to emphasize something that has been said.
• When used at the end of a prayer or to confirm something, "amen" could be translated as "let it be so" or "may this happen" or "that is true."
• When Jesus says, "truly I tell you," this could also be translated as "Yes, I tell you sincerely" or "That is true, and I also tell you."
• The phrase "truly, truly I tell you" could be translated as "I tell you this very sincerely" or "I tell you this very earnestly" or "what I am telling you is true."

(See also: fulfill, true)

Bible References:

• Deuteronomy 27:15
• John 05:19
• Jude 01:24-25
• Matthew 26:33-35
• Philemon 01:23-25
• Revelation 22:20-21

Word Data:

• Strong's: H543, G281

Forms Found in the English ULB:

amen, let it be so

ark

Related Ideas:

chest

Definition:

The term "ark" literally refers to a rectangular wooden box that is made to hold or protect something. An ark can be large or small, depending on what it is being used for.

• In the English Bible, the word "ark" is first used to refer to the very large, rectangular, wooden boat that Noah built to escape the worldwide flood. The ark had a flat bottom, a roof, and walls.
• Ways to translate this term could include "very large boat" or "barge" or "cargo ship" or "large, box-shaped boat."
• The Hebrew word that is used to refer to this huge boat is the same word used for the basket or box that held baby Moses when his mother put him in the Nile River to hide him. In that case it is usually translated as "basket."
• In the phrase "ark of the covenant," a different Hebrew word is used for "ark." This could be translated as "box" or "chest" or "container."
• When choosing a term to translate "ark," it is important in each context to consider what size it is and what it is being used for.

(See also: ark of the covenant, basket)

Bible References:

• 1 Peter 03:20
• Exodus 16:33-36
• Exodus 30:06
• Genesis 08:4-5
• Luke 17:27
• Matthew 24:37-39

Word Data:

• Strong's: H727, H8392, G2787

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ark, chest

ash

Related Ideas:

powder

Definitions:

The term "ash" or "ashes" refers to the grey powdery substance that is left behind after wood is burned. It is sometimes used figuratively to refer to something that is worthless or useless.

• In the Bible sometimes the word "dust" is used when speaking about ashes. It can also refer to the fine, loose dirt that can form on dry ground.
• An "ash heap" is a pile of ashes.
• In ancient times, sitting in ashes was a sign of mourning or grieving.
• When grieving, it was the custom to wear rough, scratchy sackcloth and sit in ashes or sprinkle the ashes on the head.
• Putting ashes on the head was also a sign of humiliation or embarrassment.
• Striving for something worthless, is said to be like "feeding on ashes."
• When translating "ashes," use the word in the project language that refers to the burned-up remains after wood has burned.
• Note that an "ash tree" is a completely different term.

(See also: fire, sackcloth)

Bible References:

• 1 Kings 20:10
• Jeremiah 06:26
• Psalms 102:09
• Psalms 113:07

Word Data:

• Strong's: H80, H665, H6083, H6368, H7834, G2868, G4700, G5077, G5522

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ash, ashes, powder

beg

Related Ideas:

ask, beggar, needy

Definition:

The term "beg" means to urgently ask someone for something. It often refers to asking for money, but it is also commonly used to refer to pleading for something.

• Often people beg or plead when they strongly need something, but don't know if the other person will give them what they ask for.
• A "beggar" is someone who regularly sits or stands in a public place to ask people for money.
• Depending on the context, this term could be translated as, "plead" or "urgently ask" or "demand money" or "regularly ask for money."

(See also: plead)

Bible References:

• Luke 16:20
• Mark 06:56
• Matthew 14:36
• Psalm 045:12-13

Word Data:

• Strong's: H34, H577, H1245, H6035, H7592, G154, G1189, G1871, G2065, G3726, G3870, G4319, G4434

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ask, asking, asks, beg, beggar, begged, begging, needy

believe

Related Ideas:

be persuaded, belief, believer, have faith, persuade, persuasive

Definition:

The terms "believe" and "believe in" are closely related, but have slightly different meanings:

• believe
  • To believe something is to accept or trust that it is true.
  • To believe someone is to acknowledge that what that person has said is true.
  • To persuade someone is to get that person to believe that something is true.
• believe in
  • To "believe in" someone means to "trust in" that person. It means to trust that the person is who he says he is, that he always speaks the truth, and that he will do what he has promised to do.
  • When a person truly believes in something, he will act in such a way that shows that belief.
  • The phrase "have faith in" usually has the same meaning as "believe in."
  • To "believe in Jesus" means to believe that he is the Son of God, that he is God himself who also became human and who died as a sacrifice to pay for our sins. It means to trust him as Savior and live in a way that honors him.

In the Bible, the term "believer" refers to someone who believes in and relies on Jesus Christ as Savior.

• The term "believer" literally means "person who believes."
• The term "Christian" eventually came to be the main title for believers because it indicates that they believe in Christ and obey his teachings.

The term "unbelief" refers to not believing something or someone.

• In the Bible, "unbelief" refers to not believing in or not trusting in Jesus as one's Savior.
• A person who does not believe in Jesus is called an "unbeliever."

Translation Suggestions:

Translating "believe" and "believe in":

• To "believe" could be translated as to "know to be true" or "know to be right."
• To "believe in" could be translated as "trust completely" or "trust and obey" or "completely rely on and follow."

Translating "believer":

• Some translations may prefer to say "believer in Jesus" or "believer in Christ."
• This term could also be translated by a word or phrase that means "person who trusts in Jesus" or "someone who knows Jesus and lives for him."
• Other ways to translate "believer" could be "follower of Jesus" or "person who knows and obeys Jesus."
• The term "believer" is a general term for any believer in Christ, while "disciple" and "apostle" were used more specifically for people who knew Jesus while he was alive. It is best to translate these terms in different ways, in order to keep them distinct.

Translating "unbelief" and "unbeliever":

• Other ways to translate "unbelief" could include "lack of faith" or "not believing."
• The term "unbeliever" could be translated as "person who does not believe in Jesus" or "someone who does not trust in Jesus as Savior."

(See also: believe, apostle, Christian, disciple, faith, trust)

Bible References:

• Genesis 15:06
• Genesis 45:26
• Job 09:16-18
• Habakkuk 01:5-7
• Mark 06:4-6
• Mark 01:14-15
• Luke 09:41
• John 01:12
• Acts 06:05
• Acts 09:42
• Acts 28:23-24
• Romans 03:03
• 1 Corinthians 06:01
• 1 Corinthians 09:05
• 2 Corinthians 06:15
• Hebrews 03:12
• 1 John 03:23

Word Data:

• Strong's: H539, H3948, H6601, G544, G569, G3982, G4100, G4102, G4103

Forms Found in the English ULB:

am persuaded, belief, believe, believed, believer, believers, believes, believing, has faith, persuade, persuaded, persuading, persuasiveness, were persuaded

beloved

Related Ideas:

dear, lovely, treasured

Definition:

The term "beloved" is an expression of affection that describes someone who is loved and dear to someone else.

• The term "beloved" literally means "loved (one)" or "(who is) loved."
• God refers to Jesus as his "beloved Son."
• In their letters to Christian churches, the apostles frequently address their fellow believers as "beloved."
• Something or someone who is "lovely" attracts the love and good desires of others.

Translation Suggestions:

• This term could also be translated as "loved" or "loved one" or "well-loved," or "very dear."
• In the context of talking about a close friend, this could be translated as "my dear friend" or "my close friend." In English it is natural to say "my dear friend, Paul" or "Paul, who is my dear friend." Other languages may find it more natural to order this in a different way.
• Note that the word "beloved" comes from the word for God's love, which is unconditional, unselfish, and sacrificial.

(See also: love)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 04:14
• 1 John 03:02
• 1 John 04:07
• Mark 01:11
• Mark 12:06
• Revelation 20:09
• Romans 16:08
• Song of Solomon 01:14

Word Data:

• Strong's: H157, H1730, H2532, H3033, H3039, H4261, G25, G26, G27, G5207

Forms Found in the English ULB:

beloved, dear, lovely, treasured

blameless

Related Ideas:

blamelessly, faultless, without blame

Definition:

The term "blameless" literally means "without blame." It is used to refer to a person who obeys God wholeheartedly, but it does not mean that the person is sinless.

• Abraham and Noah were considered blameless before God.
• A person who has a reputation for being "blameless" behaves in a way that honors God.
• According to one verse, a person who is blameless is "one who fears God and turns away from evil."

Translation Suggestions:

• This could also be translated as "with no fault to his character" or "completely obedient to God" or "avoiding sin" or "keeping away from evil."

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 02:10
• 1 Thessalonians 03:11-13
• 2 Peter 03:14
• Colossians 01:22
• Genesis 17:1-2
• Philippians 02:15
• Philippians 03:06

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1368, H2135, H2136, H8535, H8549, G273, G274, G298, G299, G410, G423, G677

Forms Found in the English ULB:

blameless, blamelessly, faultless, without blame

blemish

Related Ideas:

defect, unblemished

Definitions:

The term "blemish" refers to a physical defect or imperfection on an animal or person. It can also refer to spiritual imperfections and faults in people.

• For certain sacrifices, God instructed the Israelites to offer an animal with no blemishes or defects.
• This is a picture of how Jesus Christ was the perfect sacrifice, without any sin.
• Believers in Christ have been cleansed from their sin by his blood and are considered to be without blemish.
• Ways to translate this term could include "defect" or "imperfection" or "sin," depending on the context.
• Something that is "unblemished" does not have any blemishes or defects.

(See also: believe, clean, sacrifice, sin)

Bible References:

• 1 Peter 01:19
• 2 Peter 02:13
• Deuteronomy 15:19-21
• Numbers 06:13-15
• Song of Solomon 04:07

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3971, H8400, H8549, G299, G3470

Forms Found in the English ULB:

blemish, blemishes, defect, unblemished

boast

Related Ideas:

boastful

Definition:

The term "boast" means to talk proudly about something or someone. Often it means to brag about oneself.

• Someone who is "boastful" talks about himself in a proud way.
• God rebuked the Israelites for "boasting in" their idols. They arrogantly worshiped false gods instead of the true God.
• The Bible also talks about people boasting in such things as their wealth, their strength, their fruitful fields, and their laws. This means that they were proud about these things and did not acknowledge that God is the one who provided these things.
• God urged the Israelites to instead "boast" or be proud about the fact that they know him.
• The apostle Paul also talks about boasting in the Lord, which means being glad and thankful to God for all he has done for them.

Translation Suggestions:

• Other ways to translate "boast" could include "brag" or "talk proudly" or "be proud."
• The term "boastful" could be translated by a word or phrase that means "full of prideful talk" or "prideful" or "talking proudly about oneself."
• In the context of boasting in or about knowing God, this could be translated as "take pride in" or "exalt in" or "be very glad about" or "give thanks to God about."
• Some languages have two words for "pride": one that is negative, with the meaning of being arrogant, and the other that is positive, with the meaning of taking pride in one's work, family, or country.

Translation Suggestions:

(See also: proud)

Bible References:

• 1 Kings 20:11
• 2 Timothy 03:1-4
• James 03:14
• James 04:15-17
• Psalms 044:08

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1984, H3235, H6286, G212, G213, G1461, G2620, G2744, G2745, G2746, G3166

Forms Found in the English ULB:

boast, boasted, boastful, boasting, boasts, reason for boasting

body

Related Ideas:

bodily, body of Christ, carcass, corpse

Definition:

The term "body" literally refers to the physical body of a person or animal. This term is also used figuratively to refer to an object or whole group that has individual members.

• Often the term "body" refers to a dead person. Sometimes this is referred to as a "dead body" or a "corpse." The dead body of an animal is called a "carcass."
• When Jesus said to the disciples at his last Passover meal, "This (bread) is my body," he was referring to his physical body that would be "broken" (killed) to pay for their sins.
• In the Bible, Christians as a group are referred to as the "body of Christ." Just as a physical body has many parts, the "body of Christ" has many individual members. Each individual believer has a special function in the body of Christ to help the whole group work together to serve God and bring him glory.
  • Jesus is also referred to as the "head" (leader) of the "body" of his believers. Just as a person's head tells his body what to do, so Jesus is the one who guides and directs Christians as members of his "body."

Translation Suggestions:

• The best way to translate this term would be with the word that is most commonly used to refer to a physical body in the project language. Make sure that the word used is not an offensive term.
• When referring collectively to believers, for some languages it may be more natural and accurate to say "spiritual body of Christ."
• When Jesus says, "This is my body," it is best to translate this literally, with a note to explain it if needed.
• Some languages may have a separate word when referring to a dead body, such as "corpse" for a person or "carcass" for an animal. Make sure the word used to translate this makes sense in the context and is acceptable.

(See also: head, spirit)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 10:12
• 1 Corinthians 05:05
• Ephesians 04:04
• Judges 14:08
• Numbers 06:6-8
• Psalm 031:09
• Romans 12:05

Word Data:

• Strong's: H990, H1320, H1472, H1480, H1655, H3409, H4191, H5038, H5315, H6297, H7607, G4430, G4561, G4954, G4983

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bodies, bodily, body, carcass, carcasses, corpse, corpses

bold

Related Ideas:

boldly, boldness, emboldened

Definition:

These terms all refer to having courage and confidence to speak the truth and do the right thing even when it is difficult or dangerous.

• A "bold" person is not afraid to say and do what is good and right, including defending people who are being mistreated. This could be translated as "courageous" or "fearless."
• In the New Testament, the disciples continued to "boldly" preach about Christ in public places, in spite of the danger of being put in jail or killed. This could be translated as "confidently" or "with strong courage" or "courageously."
• The "boldness" of these early disciples in speaking the good news of Christ's redeeming death on the cross resulted in the gospel being spread throughout Israel and nearby countries and finally, to the rest of the world. "Boldness" could also be translated as "confident courage."

(See also: confidence, good news, redeem)

Bible References:

• 1 John 02:28
• 1 Thessalonians 02:1-2
• 2 Corinthians 03:12-13
• Acts 04:13

Word Data:

• Strong's: H982, H5797, G662, G2292, G3618, G3954, G3955, G5111, G5112

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bold, boldly, boldness, emboldened

bow

Related Ideas:

bend, bend the knee, bow down, fall down before, kneel

Note

For the weapon called a bow, click here.

Definition:

To bow means to bend over to humbly express respect and honor toward someone. To "bow down" means to bend over or kneel down very low, often with face and hands toward the ground.

• Other expressions include "bow the knee" (meaning to kneel) and "bow the head" (meaning to bend the head forward in humble respect or in sorrow).
• Bowing down can also be a sign of distress or mourning. Someone who is "bowed down" has been brought to a low position of humility.
• Often a person will bow in the presence of someone who is of higher status or greater importance, such as kings and other rulers.
• Bowing down before God is an expression of worship to him.
• In the Bible, people bowed down to Jesus when they realized from his miracles and teaching that he had come from God.
• The Bible says that when Jesus comes back someday, everyone will bow the knee to worship him.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, this term could be translated with a word or phrase that means "bend forward" or "bend the head" or "kneel."
• The term "bow down" could be translated as "kneel down" or "prostrate oneself."
• Some languages will have more than one way of translating this term, depending on the context.

(See also: humble, worship)

Bible References:

• 2 Kings 05:18
• Exodus 20:05
• Genesis 24:26
• Genesis 44:14
• Isaiah 44:19
• Luke 24:05
• Matthew 02:11
• Revelation 03:09

Word Data:

• Strong's: H86, H1288, H3721, H3766, H5753, H5791, H6915, H7743, H7812, H7817, G1120, G2578, G2827, G4098, G4352, G4364

Forms Found in the English ULB:

are bent, bend, bend the knee, bow, bow down, bowed, bowed ... down, bowed ... down ... before, bowing, bowing down, bows, bows down, fall down, fell, fell down, has ... bent, have ... bent, kneel, kneeling, knelt, will bend

brother

Related Ideas:

brotherhood

Definition:

The term "brother" usually refers to a male person who shares at least one biological parent with another person.

• In the Old Testament, the term "brothers" is also used as a general reference to relatives, such as members of the same tribe, clan, or people group.
• In the New Testament, the apostles often used "brothers" to refer to fellow Christians, including both men and women, since all believers in Christ are members of one spiritual family, with God as their heavenly Father.
• A few times in the New Testament, the apostles used the term "sister" when referring specifically to a fellow Christian who was a woman, or to emphasize that both men and women are being included. For example, James emphasizes that he is talking about all believers when he refers to "a brother or sister who is in need of food or clothing."

Translation Suggestions:

• It is best to translate this term with the literal word that is used in the target language to refer to a natural or biological brother, unless this would give wrong meaning.
• In the Old Testament especially, when "brothers" is used very generally to refer to members of the same family, clan, or people group, possible translations could include "relatives" or "clan members" or "fellow Israelites."
• In the context of referring to a fellow believer in Christ, this term could be translated as "brother in Christ" or "spiritual brother."
• If both males and females are being referred to and "brother" would give a wrong meaning, then a more general kinship term could be used that would include both males and females.
• Other ways to translate this term so that it refers to both male and female believers could be "fellow believers" or "Christian brothers and sisters."
• Make sure to check the context to determine whether only men are being referred to, or whether both men and women are included.

(See also: apostle, God the Father, sister, spirit)

Bible References:

• Acts 07:26
• Genesis 29:10
• Leviticus 19:17
• Nehemiah 03:01
• Philippians 04:21
• Revelation 01:09

Word Data:

• Strong's: H251, H252, H264, H1730, H2993, H7453, G80, G81, G2385, G2500, G4613, G5360, G5569

Forms Found in the English ULB:

brother, brother's, brotherhood, brothers, brothers'

call

Related Ideas:

appeal to, invite, summon

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.
• To appeal to someone is to ask someone to do something.
• To invite someone is to ask them to do something that they might like to do.

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 on" an official is to tell him to do what he is supposed to do as part of his job.
• 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 18:24
• 1 Thessalonians 04:07
• 2 Timothy 01:09
• Ephesians 04:01
• Galatians 01:15
• Matthew 02:15
• Philippians 03:14

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2199, H3259, H4744, H6817, H7121, H7123, H7769, H7773, G154, G1528, G1793, G1941, G1951, G2028, G2046, G2564, G2821, G2822, G2840, G2919, G3004, G3106, G3333, G3343, G3603, G3686, G3687, G3870, G4341, G4377, G4779, G4867, G5455, G5537, G5581

Forms Found in the English ULB:

appeal to, appealed to, appealing to, call, called, called on, called out, calling, calling out, calls, calls out, invite, invited, summon, summoned, summoning

children

Related Ideas:

child, childhood, childless

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "child" is often used to generally refer to someone who is young in age, including an infant.

• The word "childhood" refers to the time that a person is a child.
• The word "childless" describes a person who has no children.
• The word "children" is the plural form of "child."

The words "child" and "children" also have 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 02:28
• 3 John 01:04
• Galatians 04:19
• Genesis 45:11
• Joshua 08:34-35
• Nehemiah 05:05

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1069, H1121, H1123, H1129, H1397, H1580, H2029, H2030, H2056, H2145, H2233, H2945, H3173, H3205, H3206, H3243, H3490, H4392, H5288, H5290, H5759, H5953, H6185, H7908, H7909, H7921, G730, G815, G1025, G1064, G3439, G3515, G3516, G3808, G3812, G3813, G3816, G4690, G5040, G5041, G5042, G5043, G5044, G5207, G5388

Forms Found in the English ULB:

child, childhood, childless, children

church

Definition:

In the New Testament, the term "church" refers to a local group of believers in Jesus who regularly met together to pray and hear God's word preached. The term "the Church" often refers to all Christians.

• This term literally refers to a "called out" assembly or congregation of people who meet together for a special purpose.
• When this term is used to refer to all believers everywhere in the whole body of Christ, some Bible translations capitalize the first letter ("Church") to distinguish it from the local church.
• Often the believers in a particular city would meet together in someone's home. These local churches were given the name of the city such as the "church at Ephesus."
• In the Bible, "church" does not refer to a building.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "church" could be translated as a "gathering together" or "assembly" or "congregation" or "ones who meet together."
• The word or phrase that is used to translate this term should also be able to refer to all believers, not just one small group.
• Make sure that the translation of "church" does not just refer to a building.
• The term used to translate "assembly" in the Old Testament could also be used to translate this term.
• Also consider how it is translated in a local or national Bible translation.

(See also: assembly, believe, Christian)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 05:12
• 1 Thessalonians 02:14
• 1 Timothy 03:05
• Acts 09:31
• Acts 14:23
• Acts 15:41
• Colossians 04:15
• Ephesians 05:23
• Matthew 16:18
• Philippians 04:15

Word Data:

• Strong's: G1577

Forms Found in the English ULB:

church, churches

circumcise

Related Ideas:

circumcision, uncircumcision

Definition:

The term "circumcise" means to cut off the foreskin of a man or male child. A circumcision ceremony may be performed in connection with this.

• God commanded Abraham to circumcise every male among his family and servants as a sign of God's covenant with them.
• God also commanded Abraham's descendants to continue to do this for every baby boy born into their households.
• The phrase, "circumcision of the heart" refers figuratively to the "cutting away" or removal of sin from a person.
• In a spiritual sense, "the circumcised" refers to people whom God has purified from sin through the blood of Jesus and who are his people.
• The term "uncircumcised" refers to those who have not been circumcised physically. It can also refer figuratively to those who have not been circumcised spiritually, who do not have a relationship with God.

The terms "uncircumcised" and "uncircumcision" refer to a male who has not been physically circumcised. These terms are also used figuratively.

• Egypt was a nation that also required circumcision. So when God talks about Egypt being defeated by the "uncircumcised," he is referring to people whom the Egyptians despised for not being circumcised.

• The Bible refers to people who have an "uncircumcised heart" or who are "uncircumcised in heart." This a figurative way of saying that these people are not God's people, and are stubbornly disobedient to him.

• If a word for circumcision is used or known in the language, "uncircumcised" could be translated as "not circumcised."

• The expression "the uncircumcision" could be translated as "people who are not circumcised" or "people who do not belong to God," depending on the context.

• Other ways to translate figurative senses of this term could include "not God's people" or "rebellious like those who don't belong to God" or "people who have no sign of belonging to God."

• The expression "uncircumcised in heart" could be translated as "stubbornly rebellious" or "refusing to believe." However, if possible it is best to keep the expression or a similar one since spiritual circumcision is an important concept.

Translation Suggestions:

• If the culture of the target language performs circumcisions on males, the word used to refer to this should be used for this term.
• Other ways to translate this term would be, "cut around" or "cut in a circle" or "cut off the foreskin."
• In cultures where circumcision is not known, it may be necessary to explain it in a footnote or glossary.
• Make sure the term used to translate this does not refer to females. It may be necessary to translate this with a word or phrase that includes the meaning of "male."

(See also: Abraham, covenant)

Bible References:

• Genesis 17:11
• Genesis 17:14
• Exodus 12:48
• Leviticus 26:41
• Joshua 05:03
• Judges 15:18
• 2 Samuel 01:20
• Jeremiah 09:26
• Ezekiel 32:25
• Acts 10:44-45
• Acts 11:03
• Acts 15:01
• Acts 11:03
• Romans 02:27
• Galatians 05:03
• Ephesians 02:11
• Philippians 03:03
• Colossians 02:11
• Colossians 02:13

Word Data:

• Strong's: H4135, H4139, H5243, H6188, H6189, G203, G564, G1986, G4059, G4061

Forms Found in the English ULB:

circumcise, circumcised, circumcision, uncircumcised, uncircumcision

citizen

Related Ideas:

citizenship

Definition:

A citizen is someone who lives in a specific city, country, or kingdom. It especially refers to someone who is recognized officially as being a legal resident of that place.

• Depending on the context, this could also be translated as "inhabitant" or "official resident."
• A citizen could live in a region that is part of a larger kingdom or empire that is governed by a king, emperor, or other ruler. For example, Paul was a citizen of the Roman Empire, which consisted of many different provinces; Paul lived in one of those provinces.
• In a figurative sense, believers in Jesus are called "citizens" of heaven in the sense that they will live there someday. Like a citizen of a country, Christians belong to God's kingdom.

( See: kingdom, Paul, province, Rome)

Bible References:

• Acts 21:39-40
• Isaiah 03:03
• Luke 15:15
• Luke 19:14

Word Data:

• Strong's: H6440, G4175, G4177, G4847

Forms Found in the English ULB:

citizen, citizens, citizenship

comfort

Related Ideas:

comforter, console, consolation

Definition:

The terms "comfort" and "comforter" refer to helping someone who is suffering physical or emotional pain.

• A person who comforts someone is called a "comforter."
• In the Old Testament, the term "comfort" is used to describe how God is kind and loving to his people and helps them when they are suffering.
• In the New Testament, it says that God will comfort his people through the Holy Spirit. Those who receive the comfort are then enabled to give the same comfort to others who are suffering.
• The expression "comforter of Israel" referred to the Messiah who would come to rescue his people.
• Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the "Comforter" who helps believers in Jesus.
• To "appease" someone is to do something that causes that person to no longer be angry about the wrong that someone else has done to him.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, "comfort" could also be translated as, "ease the pain of" or "help (someone) overcome grief" or "encourage" or "console."
• A phrase such as "our comfort" could be translated as "our encouragement" or "our consoling of (someone)" or "our help in times of grieving."
• The term "comforter" could be translated as "person who comforts" or "someone who helps ease pain" or "person who encourages."
• When the Holy Spirit is called "the Comforter" this could also be translated as "the Encourager" or "the Helper" or "the One who helps and guides."
• The phrase "comforter of Israel" could be translated as, "the Messiah, who comforts Israel."
• An expression like, "they have no comforter" could also be translated as, "No one has comforted them" or "There is no one to encourage or help them."

(See also: encourage, Holy Spirit)

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 05:8-11
• 2 Corinthians 01:04
• 2 Samuel 10:1-3
• Acts 20:11-12

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2505, H5150, H5162, H5165, H5564, H8575, G3870, G3874, G3875, G3888, G3890, G3931

Forms Found in the English ULB:

comfort, comforted, comforter, comforters, comforting, comforts, consolation, consolations, consoling, uncomforted

companion

Related Ideas:

associate, company, fellow worker, friend, partner, private advisor

Definitions:

The term "companion" refers to a person who goes with someone else or who is associated with someone else, such as in a friendship or marriage. The term "fellow worker" refers to someone who works with another person.

• Companions go through experiences together, share meals together, and support and encourage each other.
• Depending on the context, this term could also be translated with a word or phrase that means, "friend" or "fellow traveler" or "supporting-person who goes with" or "person who works with."
• The word "company" refers to a person's companions.
• The word "associates" refers to companions who are involved in official activities.

Bible References:

• Ezekiel 37:16
• Hebrews 01:09
• Proverbs 02:17
• Psalms 038:11-12

Word Data:

• Strong's: H157, H251, H441, H2269, H2270, H2273, H2278, H3674, H3675, H4828, H5712, H6116, H6951, H7474, H7453, H7462, H7464, G2844, G3353, G3657, G4898, G4904

Forms Found in the English ULB:

associates, companion, companions, company, fellow worker, fellow workers, friend, friends, keeps company with, partner, partners, private advisor

compassion

Related Ideas:

compassionate, deal gently with, pity, sympathy

Definition:

The term "compassion" refers to a feeling of concern for people, especially for those who are suffering. A "compassionate" person cares about other people and helps them.

• The word "compassion" usually includes caring about people in need, as well as taking action to help them.
• The Bible says that God is compassionate, that is, he is full of love and mercy.
• In Paul's letter to the Colossians, he tells them to "clothe themselves with compassion." He is instructing them to care about people and to actively help others who are in need.
• To have "sympathy" for someone is to understand how that person feels and to want to help him.

Translation Suggestions:

• The literal meaning of "compassion" is "bowels of mercy." This is an expression that means "mercy" or "pity." Other languages may have their own expression that means this.
• Ways of translating "compassion" could include, "a deep caring for" or "helpful mercy."
• The term "compassionate" could also be translated as, "caring and helpful" or "deeply loving and merciful."

Bible References:

• Daniel 01:8-10
• Hosea 13:14
• James 05:9-11
• Jonah 04:1-3
• Mark 01:41
• Romans 09:14-16

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2550, H2580, H2603, H5150, H5162, H5164, H7349, H7355, H7356, G1653, G3356, G3627, G4697, G4834, G4835

Forms Found in the English ULB:

compassion, compassionate, compassions, deal gently with, pitied, pity, sympathy

confess

Related Ideas:

confession, profess

Definition:

To confess means to admit or assert that something is true. A "confession" is a statement or admission that something is true.

• The term "confess" can refer to boldly stating the truth about God. It can also refer to admitting that we have sinned.
• The Bible says that if people confess their sins to God, he will forgive them.
• James the apostle wrote in his letter that when believers confess their sins to each other, this brings spiritual healing.
• The apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians that someday everyone will confess or declare that Jesus is Lord.
• Paul also said that if people confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised him from the dead, they will be saved.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, ways to translate "confess" could include, "admit" or "testify" or "declare" or "acknowledge" or "affirm."
• Different ways to translate "confession" could be, "declaration" or "testimony" or "statement about what we believe" or "admitting sin."

(See also: faith, testimony)

Bible References:

• 1 John 01:8-10
• 2 John 01:7-8
• James 05:16
• Leviticus 05:5-6
• Matthew 03:4-6
• Nehemiah 01:6-7
• Philippians 02:9-11
• Psalms 038:17-18

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3034, H8426, G1843, G3670, G3671

Forms Found in the English ULB:

confess, confessed, confesses, confessing, confession, profess

confidence

Related Ideas:

assure, carefree, confident, convinced, fully assured, without fear

Definition:

The term "confidence" refers to being sure that something is true or certain to happen.

• In the Bible, the term "hope" often means to wait expectantly for something that is sure to happen. The ULB often translates this as "confidence" or "confidence for the future" or "future confidence" especially when it means to be assured of receiving what God has promised to believers in Jesus.
• Often the term "confidence" refers especially to the certainty that believers in Jesus have that they will someday be with God forever in heaven.
• The phrase, "have confidence in God" means to fully expect to receive and experience what God has promised.
• Being "confident" means believing in God's promises and acting with the assurance that God will do what he has said. This term can also have the meaning of acting boldly and courageously.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "confident" could be translated as "assured" or "very sure."
• The phrase "be confident" could also be translated as "trust completely" or "be completely sure about" or "know for certain."
• The term "confidently" could also be translated as "boldly" or "with certainty."
• Depending on the context, ways to translate "confidence" could include, "complete assurance" or "sure expectation" or "certainty."

(See also: believe, believe, bold, faithful, hope, trust)

Bible References:

{{topic>confidence&nocomments}}

Word Data:

• Strong's: H982, H983, H986, H3689, H3690, H4009, H7961, G2292, G3954, G3982, G4006, G4135, G5287

Forms Found in the English ULB:

assure, carefree, confidence, confident, confidently, convinced, fully assured, source of ... confidence, without fear

confirm

Related Ideas:

carry out, cause someone to believe firmly, confirmation, guarantee

Definition:

The terms "confirm" and "confirmation" refer to stating or assuring that something is true or sure or trustworthy.

• In the Old Testament, God tells his people that he will "confirm" his covenant with them. This means he is stating that he will keep the promises he made in that covenant.
• When a king is "confirmed" it means that the decision to make him king has been agreed upon and supported by the people.
• To confirm what someone wrote means to say that what was written is true.
• The "confirmation" of the gospel means teaching people about the good news of Jesus in such a way that it shows that it is true.
• To give an oath "as confirmation" means to solemnly state or swear that something is true or trustworthy.
• Ways to translate "confirm" could include, "state as true" or "prove to be trustworthy" or "agree with" or "assure" or "promise," depending on the context.
• To "carry out" a promise is to do what one has promised to do.

(See also: covenant, oath, trust)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 16:15-18
• 2 Corinthians 01:21
• 2 Kings 23:3
• Hebrews 06:16-18

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1396, H3045, H3559, H4390, H4672, H5414, H5975, H6213, H6965, G950, G951, G3315, G4741, G4972

Forms Found in the English ULB:

carry out, cause ... to believe firmly, confirm, confirmation, confirmed, confirms, guaranteed

courage

Related Ideas:

brave, courageous, discourage, discouragement, encourage, encouragement

Definitions:

The term "courage" refers to boldly facing or doing something that is difficult, frightening, or dangerous.

• The term, "courageous" describes someone who shows courage, who does the right thing even when feeling afraid or pressured to give up.
• A person shows courage when he faces emotional or physical pain with strength and perseverance.
• The expression "take courage" means, "don't be afraid" or "be assured that things will turn out well."
• When Joshua was preparing to go into the dangerous land of Canaan, Moses exhorted him to be "strong and courageous."
• The term "courageous" could also be translated as "brave" or "unafraid" or "bold."
• Depending on the context, to "have courage" could also be translated as, "be emotionally strong" or "be confident" or "stand firm."
• To "speak with courage" could be translated as, "speak boldly" or "speak without being afraid" or "speak confidently."

The terms "encourage" and encouragement" refer to saying and doing things to cause someone to have comfort, hope, confidence, and courage.

• A similar term is "exhort," which means to urge someone to reject an activity that is wrong and to instead do things that are good and right.
• The apostle Paul and other New Testament writers taught Christians to encourage one another to love and serve others.

The term "discourage" refers to saying and doing things that cause people to lose hope, confidence, and courage and so to have less desire to keep working hard to do what they know they should do.

Translation Suggestions

• Depending on the context, ways to translate "encourage" could include "urge" or "comfort" or "say kind things" or "help and support."
• The phrase "give words of encouragement" means "say things that cause other people to feel loved, accepted, and empowered."

(See also: confidence, exhort, fear, strength)

Bible References:

• Deuteronomy 01:37-38
• 2 Kings 18:19-21
• 1 Chronicles 17:25
• Matthew 09:20-22
• 1 Corinthians 14:1-4
• 2 Corinthians 07:13
• Acts 05:12-13
• Acts 16:40
• Hebrews 03:12-13
• Hebrews 13:5-6

Word Data:

• Strong's: H47, H533, H553, H1368, H2388, H2388, H2428, H3820, H3824, H7307, G2114, G2115, G2174, G2292, G2293, G2294, H2865, G3870, G3874, G3954, G4389, G4837, G5111

Forms Found in the English ULB:

brave, bravest, courage, courageous, dare, dared, discourage, discouraged, discouragement, discouraging, encourage, encouraged, encouragement, encouraging, take courage

cross

Definition:

In Bible times, a cross was an upright wooden post stuck into the ground, with a horizontal wooden beam attached to it near the top.

• During the time of the Roman Empire, the Roman government would execute criminals by tying or nailing them to a cross and leaving them there to die.
• Jesus was falsely accused of crimes he did not commit and the Romans put him to death on a cross.
• Note that this is a completely different word from the verb "cross" that means to go over to the other side of something, such as a river or lake.

Translation Suggestions:

• This term could be translated using a term in the target language that refers to the shape of a cross.
• Consider describing the cross as something on which people were killed, using phrases such as "execution post" or "tree of death."
• Also consider how this word is translated in a Bible translation in a local or national language.

(See also: crucify, Rome)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 01:17
• Colossians 02:15
• Galatians 06:12
• John 19:18
• Luke 09:23
• Luke 23:26
• Matthew 10:38
• Philippians 02:08

Word Data:

• Strong's: G4716

Forms Found in the English ULB:

cross

crown

Related Ideas:

crest, garland, wreath

Definition:

A crown is a decorative, circular headpiece worn on the head of rulers such as kings and queens. The term to "crown" means to put a crown on someone's head; figuratively it means to "honor."

• Crowns are usually made of gold or silver, and are embedded with precious gems such as emeralds and rubies.
• A crown is a symbol of a king's power and wealth.
• By contrast, the crown made of thorn branches that the Roman soldiers placed on Jesus' head was meant to mock him and hurt him.
• If a person is "crowned," this means that a crown was put on his head.
• In ancient times, winners of athletic contests would be awarded a crown made out of olive branches. The apostle Paul mentions this crown in his second letter to Timothy.
• A "crest" is a crown or a piece of metal or expensive wood with a design on it or something else that people recognize as a symbol of the king or another official. A person whom the official wants to honor will wear the "crest" or put it on the animal that he rides or that pulls his chariot.
• A "garland" and "a wreath" are a crown or necklace made of flowers or leaves.

Sometimes "crown" is used figuratively.

• The figurative use of to "crown" means to honor someone. We honor God by obeying him and praising him to others. This is like putting a crown on him and acknowledging that he is King.
• Pauls calls fellow believers his "joy and crown." In this expression, "crown" is used figuratively to mean that Paul has been greatly blessed and honored by how these believers have remained faithful in serving God.

Translation Suggestions:

• When used figuratively, "crown" could be translated as "prize" or "honor" or "reward."
• The figurative use of to "crown" could be translated as to "honor" or to "decorate."
• The expression, "he was crowned with glory and honor" could be translated as, "glory and honor were bestowed on him" or "he was given glory and honor" or "he was endowed with glory and honor."

(See also: glory, king, olive)

Bible References:

• John 19:03
• Lamentations 05:16
• Matthew 27:29
• Philippians 04:01
• Psalms 021:03
• Revelation 03:11

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3803, H3804, H5145, H5849, H5850, H6936, G1238, G4735, G4737

Forms Found in the English ULB:

crest, crown, crowned, crowns, garland, wreath

day

Related Ideas:

daily, daytime, morning, today

Definition:

The term "day" literally refers to a period of time lasting 24 hours beginning at sundown. It is also used figuratively.

• For the Israelites and the Jews, a day began at sunset of one day and ended at sunset of the next day.
• Sometimes the term "day" is used figuratively to refer to a longer period of time, such as the "day of Yahweh" or "last days."
• Some languages will use a different expression to translate these figurative uses or will translate "day" nonfiguratively.
• Other translations of "day" could include, "time" or "season" or "occasion" or "event," depending on the context.

(See also: judgment day, last day)

Bible References:

• Acts 20:06
• Daniel 10:04
• Ezra 06:15
• Ezra 06:19
• Matthew 09:15

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3117, H3118, H3119, H6242, G2250, G4594

Forms Found in the English ULB:

daily, day, day's, days, days', daytime, morning, today

deacon

Definition:

A deacon is a person who serves in the local church, helping fellow believers with practical needs, such as food or money.

• The word "deacon" is taken directly from a Greek word meaning "servant" or "minister."
• From the time of the early Christians, being a deacon has been a well-defined role and ministry in the Church body.
• For example, in the New Testament, deacons would make sure that whatever money or food that the believers shared would be distributed fairly to the widows among them.
• The term "deacon" could also be translated as "church minister" or "church worker" or "church servant," or some other phrase that shows that the person has been formally appointed to do specific tasks that benefit the local Christian community.

(See also: minister, servant)

Bible References:

• 1 Timothy 03:10
• 1 Timothy 03:13
• Philippians 01:01

Word Data:

• Strong's: G1249

Forms Found in the English ULB:

deacon, deacons

death

Related Ideas:

breathed their last, dead, deadly, deadness, deathly, die, lethal, mortal, stop breathing

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.
• The words "deadly" and "lethal" describe something that causes someone to die.
• Something that is "mortal" can die; it does not live forever.

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 the words "die," death," and dead," it is usually best to use the everyday, natural word or expression in the target language that refers to death. This is true both when “death” refers to physical death and when it refers to spiritual 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."
• 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."
• 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 15:21
• 1 Thessalonians 4:17
• Acts 10:42
• Acts 14:19
• Colossians 2:15
• Colossians 2:20
• Genesis 2:15-17
• Genesis 34:27
• Matthew 16:28
• Romans 5:10
• Romans 5:12
• Romans 6:10

Word Data:

• Strong's: H6, H1478, H1826, H1934, H2491, H4191, H4192, H4193, H4194, H4463, H5038, H5315, H6297, H6757, H7496, H7523, H7819, H8045, H8546, H8552, G336, G337, G520, G599, G615, G622, G1634, G2079, G2253, G2286, G2287, G2288, G2289, G2348, G2837, G2966, G3498, G3499, G3500, G4430, G4880, G4881, G5053, G5054

Forms Found in the English ULB:

about to die, breathed ... last, causes ... death, dead, deadly, deadness, death, deathly, deaths, die, die with, died, dies, dying, fatal, lethal, mortal, stop breathing, stops breathing

deliver

Related Ideas:

defend, deliverance, deliverer, escape, relieve, rescue, rescuer

Definition:

To "deliver" someone means to rescue that person. The term "deliverer" refers to someone who rescues or frees people from slavery, oppression, or other dangers. The term "deliverance" refers to what happens when someone rescues or frees people from slavery, oppression, or other dangers.

• In the Old Testament, God appointed deliverers to protect the Israelites by leading them in battle against other people groups who came to attack them.
• These deliverers were also called "judges" and the Old Testament book of Judges records the time in history when these judges were governing Israel.
• God is also called a "deliverer." Throughout the history of Israel, he delivered or rescued his people from their enemies.
• The term "deliver over to" or "deliver up to" has a very different meaning of handing or turning someone over to an enemy, such as when Judas delivered Jesus over to the Jewish leaders.

Translation Suggestions:

• In the context of helping people escape from their enemies, the term "deliver" can be translated as "rescue" or "liberate" or "save."
• When it means to deliver someone over to the enemy, "deliver over" can be translated as "betray to" or "hand over" or "give over."
• The word "deliverer" can also be translated as "rescuer" or "liberator."
• When the term "deliverer" refers to the judges who led Israel, it could also be translated as "governor" or "judge" or "leader."

(See also: judge, save)

Bible References:

• 2 Corinthians 01:10
• Acts 07:35
• Galatians 01:04
• Judges 10:12

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1350, H2020, H2502, H3205, H3444, H3467, H4042, H4422, H4498, H4672, H5337, H5414, H5437, H5462, H6299, H6403, H6413, H6475, H6561, H7378, H7611, H7725, H7804, H8199, H8668, G325, G525, G629, G1080, G1325, G1659, G1807, G1929, G3086, G3860, G4506, G4991, G5088, G5483

Forms Found in the English ULB:

be rescued, defend, defended, deliver, deliverance, delivered, delivered ... over, deliverer, deliverers, delivering, delivers, escape, escaped, permit ... to escape, relieve, rescue, rescued, rescuer, rescues

earth

Related Ideas:

clay, dust, earthen, earthly, ground, land, soil

Definition:

The term "earth" refers to the world that human beings live on, along with all other forms of life.

• "Earth" can also refer to the ground or soil that covers the land.
• This term is often used figuratively to refer to the people who live on the earth.
• The expressions "let the earth be glad" and "he will judge the earth" are examples of figurative uses of this term.
• The term "earthly" usually refers to physical things in contrast to spiritual things.
• The term "earthen" describes something that is made of clay

Translation Suggestions:

• This term can be translated by the word or phrase that the local language or nearby national languages use to refer to the planet earth on which we live.
• Depending on the context, "earth" could also be translated as "world" or "land" or "dirt" or "soil" or "clay."
• When used figuratively, "earth" could be translated as "people on the earth" or "people living on earth" or "everything on earth."
• Ways to translate "earthly" could include "physical" or "things of this earth" or "visible."

(See also: spirit, world)

Bible References:

• 1 Kings 01:38-40
• 2 Chronicles 02:11-12
• Daniel 04:35
• Luke 12:51
• Matthew 06:10
• Matthew 11:25
• Zechariah 06:05

Word Data:

• Strong's: H80, H127, H772, H776, H778, H2789, H3007, H3335, H6083, H7494, G1093, G1919, G2709, G2868, G2886, G3625, G5517, G5522

Forms Found in the English ULB:

clay, dust, earth, earth's, earthen, earthly, ground, land, lands, soil

envy

Related Ideas:

covet, covetousness, envious, greed

Definition:

The term "envy" refers to being jealous of someone because of what that person possesses or because of that person's admirable qualities.

• Envy is normally a negative feeling of resentment because of another person's success, good fortune, or possessions.
• To "covet" means to have a strong desire to have someone else's property, or even someone else's spouse. Often a person who covets something is willing to sin to get it.
• "Greed" is a strong, selfish desire to have something. Often a person who is greedy wants more of what he already has.

(See also: jealous)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
• 1 Peter 02:01
• Exodus 20:17
• Mark 07:20-23
• Proverbs 03:31-32
• Romans 01:29

Word Data:

• Strong's: H183, H2530, H7065, H7068, H7342, G1937, G2205, G2206, G3788, G4123, G4124, G4190, G5354, G5355

Forms Found in the English ULB:

covet, coveted, coveting, covetousness, envied, envious, envy, envying, greed, greedy

evil

Related Ideas:

deal violently, displeasing, evil actions, evil deeds, evil plans, fraudulent, harm, harmful, violate, violence, violent, wicked, wicked deeds, wickedly, wickedness, wretched, wretchedly

Definition:

The terms "evil" and "wicked" both refer to anything that is opposed to God's holy character and will.

• While "evil" may describe a person's character, "wicked" may refer more to a person's behavior. However, both terms are very similar in meaning.
• The term "wickedness" refers to the state of being that exists when people do wicked things.
• The results of evil are clearly shown in how people mistreat others by killing, stealing, slandering and being cruel and unkind.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, the terms "evil" and "wicked" can be translated as "bad" or "sinful" or "immoral."
• Other ways to translate these could include "not good" or "not righteous" or "not moral."
• Make sure the words or phrases that are used to translate these terms fit the context that is natural in the target language.

(See also: disobey, sin, good, righteous, demon)

Bible References:

• 1 Samuel 24:11
• 1 Timothy 06:10
• 3 John 01:10
• Genesis 02:17
• Genesis 06:5-6
• Job 01:01
• Job 08:20
• Judges 09:57
• Luke 06:22-23
• Matthew 07:11-12
• Proverbs 03:07
• Psalms 022:16-17

Word Data:

• Strong's: H205, H1100, H1431, H1681, H1942, H2154, H2554, H2555, H5765, H2162, H2248, H2254, H3238, H3399, H3415, H4849, H5753, H5766, H5767, H5771, H5807, H5999, H6090, H6184, H6293, H7451, H7455, H7489, H7561, H7562, H7563, H7564, H7701, H8133, G92, G93, G94, G932, G983, G984, G987, G988, G2549, G2551, G2554, G2555, G2556, G2559, G2560, G2635, G2636, G4151, G4189, G4190, G4191, G4550, G5337

Forms Found in the English ULB:

deal violently, deal worse, displeasing, do ... evil, do ... violence, done ... violence, evil, evil actions, evil deeds, evil plans, evils, fraudulent, harm, harmful, violate, violated, violates, violence, violent, wicked, wicked deeds, wickedly, wickedness, wretched, wretchedly, wretches

exalt

Related Ideas:

exaltation, high position, leadership position, lifted up

Definition:

To exalt is to lift up. Often exalt means to praise or honor someone or something. It can also mean to put someone in an honored position of leadership.

• In the Bible, the term "exalt" is most often used for honoring God.
• When a person exalts himself, it means he thinks about himself in a proud or arrogant way.

Translation Suggestions:

• Ways to translate "exalt" could include "highly praise" or "honor greatly" or "extol" or "speak highly of."
• In some contexts it could be translated by a word or phrase that means "put in a higher position" or "give more honor to" or "talk about proudly."
• "Do not exalt yourself" could also be translated as "Do not think of yourself too highly" or "Do not brag about yourself."
• "Those that exalt themselves" could also be translated as "Those who think proudly about themselves" or "Those who boast about themselves."

(See also: praise, worship, glory, boast, proud)

Bible References:

• 1 Peter 05:5-7
• 2 Samuel 22:47
• Acts 05:31
• Philippians 02:9-11
• Psalms 018:46

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1361, H1362, H1364, H4791, H4984, H5375, H5549, H5927, H7311, H7426, H7682, G5229, G5251, G5311, G5312

Forms Found in the English ULB:

exalt, exaltation, exalted, exalting, exalts, high position, leadership positions, lifted up, lofty

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."
• 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 04:07
• Acts 06:7
• Galatians 02:20-21
• James 02:20

Word Data:

• Strong's: H529, H530, G1680, G3640, G4102, G4103

Forms Found in the English ULB:

faith

father

Related Ideas:

ancestor, ancestral, beget, fatherless, forefather, grandfather, orphan

Definition:

When used literally, the term "father" refers to a person's male parent.

• A "grandfather" is someone's father's father or someone's mother's father.
• A "forefather" is one of a person's male ancestors, such as his grandfather's grandfather.
• An "ancestral household" is a social unit of those people who are descended from one ancestor.
• A person who is "fatherless" does not have a father.
• An "orphan" is a person who has no parents. In Bible times widows were often not able to care for their children, so a child with a mother but no father could also be thought of as an orphan.
• To "beget" someone is to become that person's father.

There are also several figurative uses of the term "father."

• The term "fathers" often refers to a person's male ancestors, such as his grandfather's grandfather.
• The term "father" can refer to a person who is the leader a group of related people or the source of something. For example, in Genesis 4 "the father of all who live in tents" could mean, "the first clan leader of the first people who ever lived in tents."
• The apostle Paul called himself the "father" of those he had helped to become Christians through sharing the gospel with them.

Translation Suggestions

• When talking about a father and his literal son, this term should be translated using the usual term to refer to a father in the language.
• "God the Father" should also be translated using the usual, common word for "father."
• When referring to forefathers, this term could be translated as "ancestors" or "ancestral fathers."
• Sometimes the word "father" can be translated as "clan leader."
• When Paul refers to himself figuratively as a father to believers in Christ, this could be translated as "spiritual father" or "father in Christ."
• The phrase "father of all lies" could be translated as "source of all lies" or "the one from whom all lies come."

(See also: God the Father, son, Son of God)

Bible References:

• Acts 07:02
• Acts 07:32
• Acts 07:45
• Acts 22:03
• Genesis 31:30
• Genesis 31:42
• Genesis 31:53
• Hebrews 07:4-6
• John 04:12
• Joshua 24:3-4
• Malachi 03:07
• Mark 10:7-9
• Matthew 01:07
• Matthew 03:09
• Matthew 10:21
• Matthew 18:14
• Romans 04:12

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1, H2, H25, H539, H1730, H1733, H2524, H3205, H3490, H4940, H5971, H7223, G540, G1080, G3737, G3962, G3964, G3966, G3967, G3970, G3971, G3995, G4245, G4269, G4613

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ancestor, ancestor's, ancestors, ancestors', ancestral, beget, begot, father, father's, fathered, fathering, fatherless, fathers, fathers', forefather, forefathers, grandfather, orphan, orphans

fear

Related Ideas:

afraid, alarmed, anxiety, coward, dismay, dread, fainthearted, fearful, fearlessly, fearsome, frighten, timid, unafraid

Definition:

The terms "fear" and "afraid" refer to the unpleasant feeling a person has when there is a threat of harm to himself or others.

• The term "fear" can also refer to a deep respect and awe for a person in authority.
• The phrase "fear of Yahweh," as well as related terms "fear of God" and "fear of the Lord," refer to a deep respect of God and the showing of that respect by obeying him. This fear is motivated by knowing that God is holy and hates sin.
• The Bible teaches that a person who fears Yahweh will become wise.
• "Anxiety" is fear about the future, what is going to happen.
• To be "alarmed" is to be surprised and afraid because something bad has suddenly happened.
• "Dread" is great fear.
• Someone who is "timid" is afraid to act because something bad might happen as a result.
• Someone who is "unafraid" is not afraid.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, to "fear" can be translated as to "be afraid" or to "deeply respect" or to "revere" or to "be in awe of."
• The term "afraid" could be translated as "terrified" or "scared" or "fearful."
• The sentence "The fear of God fell on all of them" could be translated as "Suddenly they all felt a deep awe and respect for God" or "Immediately, they all felt very amazed and revered God deeply" or "Right then, they all felt very afraid of God (because of his great power)."
• The phrase "fear not" could also be translated as "do not be afraid" or "stop being afraid."
• Note that the phrase "fear of Yahweh" does not occur in the New Testament. The phrase "fear of the Lord" or "fear of the Lord God" is used instead.

(See also: marvel, awe, Lord, power, Yahweh)

Bible References:

• 1 John 04:18
• Acts 02:43
• Acts 19:15-17
• Genesis 50:21
• Isaiah 11:3-5
• Job 06:14
• Jonah 01:09
• Luke 12:05
• Matthew 10:28
• Proverbs 10:24-25

Word Data:

• Strong's: H367, H926, H928, H1204, H1481, H1672, H1674, H1763, H2119, H2729, H2730, H2731, H2844, H2849, H2865, H3016, H3025, H3372, H3373, H3374, H4032, H4034, H4035, H4116, H4172, H6206, H6342, H6343, H6345, H6427, H7264, H7267, H7297, H7390, H7461, H7493, H8175, G870, G1167, G1168, G1169, G1568, G1630, G1719, G2125, G5398, G5399, G5401

Forms Found in the English ULB:

afraid, alarmed, anxiety, cowards, dismay, dismayed, dread, dreaded, fainthearted, fear, feared, fearful, fearful thing, fearlessly, fears, fearsome, frighten, frightened, timid, unafraid

fellowship

Related Ideas:

alliance, associate with, association, allied with, contribution, participants with, partnership, share, united

Definition:

In general, the term "fellowship" refers to friendly interactions between members of a group of people who share similar interests and experiences.

• In the Bible, the term "fellowship" usually refers to the unity of believers in Christ.
• Christian fellowship is a shared relationship that believers have with one another through their relationship with Christ and the Holy Spirit.
• The early Christians expressed their fellowship through listening to the teaching of God's Word and praying together, through the sharing of their belongings, and through eating meals together.
• Christians also have fellowship with God through their faith in Jesus and his sacrificial death on the cross which removed the barrier between God and people.
• An "alliance" is a kind of fellowship between governments in which the governments agree to work together, usually to fight common enemies.

Translation Suggestions:

• Ways to translate "fellowship" could include "a sharing together" or "relationship" or "companionship" or "Christian community."

Bible References:

• 1 John 01:03
• Acts 02:40-42
• Philippians 01:3-6
• Philippians 02:01
• Philippians 03:10
• Psalms 055:12-14

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2266, H2270, H4541, H6148, H8641, G2842, G2844, G3352, G3353, G4790

Forms Found in the English ULB:

alliance, alliances, associate with, association, be allied with, be participants with, contribution, contributions, fellowship, participant, participants, partnership, share, sharers, shares, sharing, united

fir

Definition:

A fir tree is a kind of tree that stays green all year and has cones that contain seeds.

• Fir trees are also referred to as "evergreen" trees.
• In ancient times, the wood of fir trees was used for making musical instruments and for building structures such as boats, houses, and the temple.
• Some examples of fir trees mentioned in the Bible are pine, cedar, cypress, and juniper.

(See also: cedar, cypress)

Bible References:

• Ezekiel 27:4-5
• Isaiah 37:24-25
• Isaiah 41:19-20
• Isaiah 44:14
• Isaiah 60:12-13
• Psalms 104:16-18

Word Data:

• Strong's: H766, H1265, H1266

Forms Found in the English ULB:

fir, firs

flesh

Related Ideas:

fleshly, human, living creatures, meat, physical

Definition:

In the Bible, the term "flesh" literally refers to the soft tissue of the physical body of a human being or animal.

• The Bible also uses the term "flesh" in a figurative way to refer to all human beings or all living creatures.
• In the New Testament, the term "flesh" can be used to talk about something that is associated with being human. For example, to decide something according to the flesh means to decide something according to human standards.
• In the New Testament, the term "flesh" can be used to refer to the sinful nature of human beings. This is often used in contrast to their spiritual nature.
• The expression "own flesh and blood" refers to someone who is biologically related to another person, such as a parent, sibling, child, or grandchild.
• The expression "flesh and blood" can also refer to a person's ancestors or descendants.
• The expression "one flesh" refers to the physical uniting of a man and woman in marriage.

Translation Suggestions:

• In the context of an animal's body, "flesh" could be translated as "body" or "skin" or "meat."
• When it is used to refer generally to all living creatures, this term could be translated as "living beings" or "everything that is alive."
• When referring in general to all people, this term could be translated as "people" or "human beings" or "everyone who lives."
• The expression "flesh and blood" could also be translated as "relatives" or "family" or "kinfolk" or "family clan." There may be contexts where it could be translated as "ancestors" or "descendants."
• Some languages may have an expression that is similar in meaning to "flesh and blood."
• The expression "become one flesh" could be translated as "unite sexually" or "become as one body" or "become like one person in body and spirit." The translation of this expression should be checked to make sure it is acceptable in the project language and culture. . It should also be understood that this is figurative, and does not mean that a man and a woman who "become one flesh" literally become one person.

Bible References:

• 1 John 02:16
• 2 John 01:07
• Ephesians 06:12
• Galatians 01:16
• Genesis 02:24
• John 01:14
• Matthew 16:17
• Romans 08:08

Word Data:

• Strong's: H120, H829, H1320, H1321, H2878, H7607, H7683, G2907, G4559, G4561

Forms Found in the English ULB:

flesh, fleshly, human, humans, living creatures, meat, physical

found

Related Ideas:

establish, foundation, founder

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.
• To "establish" something is for a person to start or make or create something that he wants to endure for a long time.

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 14:29
• Matthew 13:35
• Matthew 25:34

Word Data:

• Strong's: H134, H553, H787, H2713, H3245, H3247, H3248, H3559, H3772, H4143, H4144, H4146, H4328, H4349, H4527, H5975, H7760, H8356, G747, G950, G1457, G2310, G2311, G2602

Forms Found in the English ULB:

established, establishes, found, foundation, foundations, founded, founder, founds, lay ... foundation, lay ... foundations

free

Related Ideas:

freedom, freeman, liberty, volunteer, without cost, without paying for it

Definition:

The terms "free" or "freedom" refer to not being in slavery, or any other kind of bondage. Another word for "freedom" is "liberty."

• The expression to "set someone free" or to "free someone" means to provide a way for someone to no longer be in slavery or captivity.
• In the Bible, these terms are often used figuratively to refer to how a believer in Jesus is no longer under the power of sin.
• Having "liberty" or "freedom" can also refer to no longer being required to obey the Law of Moses, but instead being free to live by the teachings and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
• To "volunteer" is to freely and willingly agree to do something.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "free" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "not bound" or "not enslaved" or "not in slavery" or "not in bondage."
• The term "freedom" or "liberty" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "the state of being free" or "the condition of not being a slave" or "not being bound."
• The expression to "set free" could be translated as to "cause to be free" or to "rescue from slavery" or to "release from bondage."
• A person who has been "set free" has been "released" or "taken out of" bondage or slavery.

(See also: bind, enslave, servant)

Bible References:

• Galatians 04:26
• Galatians 05:01
• Isaiah 61:1
• Leviticus 25:10
• Romans 06:18

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1865, H2600, H2666, H2668, H2670, H3318, H4800, H5068, H5069, H5071, H5337, H5352, H5355, H5425, H5674, H5800, H6299, H6340, H6362, H7342, H7971, G425, G525, G558, G629, G630, G859, G1344, G1432, G1657, G1658, G1659, G1849, G3089, G3955, G4506, G5483

Forms Found in the English ULB:

free, freed, freedom, freeing, freely, freely gave, freeman, frees, liberty, set ... free, volunteer, volunteered, without cost, without paying for it

fruit

Related Ideas:

bear fruit, crop, fruitful, produce, productive land, unfruitful

Definition:

The term "fruit" literally refers to the part of a plant that can be eaten.

• A "fruitful" plant is one that has a lot of good fruit.
• The expression "fruit of the land" refers generally to everything that the land produces for people to eat. This includes not only fruits such as grapes or dates, but also vegetables, nuts, and grains.
• The term "crop" can refer to what people have planted for for food.
• The term "crop" can refer to the food that is harvested at one time.

Sometimes the term "fruit" and ideas related to it are used figuratively.

• In general, the expression "fruit of" refers to anything that comes from or that is produced by something else. For example, the "fruit of wisdom" refers to the good things that come from being wise.
• The expression "fruit of the womb" refers to "what the womb produces"—that is, children.
• The Bible often uses "fruit" to refer to a person's actions. Just as fruit on a tree shows what kind of tree it is, in the same way a person's words and actions reveal what his character is like.
• The expression "fruit of the Spirit" refers to godly qualities that the Holy Spirit produces in the lives of people who obey him.
• The term "fruitful" can be used figuratively to mean "prosperous." This often refers to having many children and descendants, as well as having plenty of food and other wealth.

Translation Suggestions:

• It is best to translate this term using the general word for "fruit" that is commonly used in the project language to refer to the edible fruit of a fruit tree. In many languages it may be more natural to use the plural "fruits" whenever it refers to more than one fruit.
• Depending on the context, the term "fruitful" could be translated as "producing much spiritual fruit" or "having many children" or "prosperous."
• The expression "fruit of the land" could also be translated as "food that the land produces" or "food crops that are growing in that region."
• When God created animals and people, he commanded them to "be fruitful and multiply," which refers to having many offspring. This could also be translated as "have many offspring" or "have many children and descendants" or "have many children so that you will have many descendants."
• The expression "fruit of the womb" could be translated as "what the womb produces" or "children a women gives birth to" or just "children." When Elizabeth says to Mary "blessed is the fruit of your womb," she means "blessed is the child you will give birth to." The project language may also have a different expression for this.
• Another expression "fruit of the vine," could be translated as "vine fruit" or "grapes."
• Depending on the context, the expression "will be more fruitful" could also be translated as "will produce more fruit" or "will have more children" or "will be prosperous."
• The apostle Paul's expression "fruitful labor" could be translated as "work that brings very good results" or "efforts that result in many people believing in Jesus."
• The "fruit of the Spirit" could also be translated as "works that the Holy Spirit produces" or "words and actions that show that the Holy Spirit is working in someone."

(See also: descendant, grain, grape, Holy Spirit, vine, womb)

Bible References:

• Galatians 05:23
• Genesis 01:11
• Luke 08:15
• Matthew 03:08
• Matthew 07:17

Word Data:

• Strong's: H4, H1061, H1063, H1069, H2233, H2981, H3018, H3581, H3759, H3899, H3978, H4022, H5108, H6499, H6509, H6529, H6631, H7019, H8393, H8570, G1081, G2590, G2592, G2593, G3703, G5052, G5352

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bear fruit, crop, crops, fruit, fruitful, fruits, produce, productive land, unfruitful

generation

Definition:

The term "generation" refers to a group of people who were all born around the same time period.

• A generation can also refer to a span of time. In Bible times, a generation was usually considered to be about 40 years.
• Parents and their children are from two different generations.
• In the Bible, the term "generation" is also used figuratively to refer generally to people who share common characteristics.

Translation Suggestions

• The phrase "this generation" or "people of this generation" could be translated as "the people living now" or "you people."
• "This wicked generation" could also be translated as "these wicked people living now."
• The expression "from generation to generation" or "from one generation to the next" could be translated as "people living now, as well as their children and grandchildren" or "people in every time period" or "people in this time period and future time periods" or "all people and their descendants."
• "A generation to come will serve him; they will tell the next generation about Yahweh" could also be translated as "Many people in the future will serve Yahweh and will tell their children and grandchildren about him."

(See also: descendant, evil, ancestor)

Bible References:

• Acts 15:19-21
• Exodus 03:13-15
• Genesis 15:16
• Genesis 17:07
• Mark 08:12
• Matthew 11:16
• Matthew 23:34-36
• Matthew 24:34

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1755, H1859, H8435, G1074

Forms Found in the English ULB:

generation, generations

gift

Related Ideas:

give, gracious gift

Definition:

The term "gift" refers to anything that is given or offered to someone. A gift is given without the expectation of getting anything in return

• Money, food, clothing, or other things given to poor people are called "gifts."
• In the Bible, an offering or sacrifice given to God is also called a gift.
• The gift of salvation is something God gives us through faith in Jesus.
• In the New Testament, the term "gifts" is also used to refer to special spiritual abilities that God gives to all Christians for serving other people.

Translation Suggestions:

• The general term for "gift" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "something that is given."
• In the context of someone having a gift or special ability that comes from God, the term "gift from the Spirit" could be translated as "spiritual ability" or "special ability from the Holy Spirit" or "special spiritual skill that God gave."

(See also: spirit, Holy Spirit)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 12:01
• 2 Samuel 11:08
• Acts 08:20
• Acts 10:04
• Acts 11:17
• Acts 24:17
• James 01:17
• John 04:9-10
• Matthew 05:23
• Matthew 08:4

Word Data:

• Strong's: H814, H4503, H4864, H4976, H4978, H4979, H4991, H5379, H7810, H7964, H8641, G331, G1390, G1394, G1431, G1434, G1435, G3311, G5485, G5486

Forms Found in the English ULB:

gift, gifts, give, gracious gift

glory

Related Ideas:

beautiful, beauty, glorify, glorious, take pride

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 24:17
• Numbers 14:9-10
• Isaiah 35:02
• Luke 18:43
• Luke 02:09
• John 12:28
• Acts 03:13-14
• Acts 07:1-3
• Romans 08:17
• 1 Corinthians 06:19-20
• Philippians 02:14-16
• Philippians 04:19
• Colossians 03:1-4
• 1 Thessalonians 02:05
• James 02:1-4
• 1 Peter 04:15-16
• Revelation 15:04

Word Data:

• Strong's: H117, H142, H155, H1342, H1926, H1927, H1935, H1984, H2896, H3367, H3513, H3519, H3520, H5278, H6286, H6643, H7623, H8231, H8597, G1391, G1392, G1740, G1741, G2570, G2744, G4888

Forms Found in the English ULB:

beautiful, beauty, glories, glorified, glorifies, glorify, glorifying, glorious, glory, take pride

god

Related Ideas:

disgusting figure, false god, goat idols, goddess, idolater, 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 35:02
• Exodus 32:01
• Psalms 031:06
• Psalms 081:8-10
• Isaiah 44:20
• Acts 07:41
• Acts 07:43
• Acts 15:20
• Acts 19:27
• Romans 02:22
• Galatians 04:8-9
• Galatians 05:19-21
• Colossians 03:05
• 1 Thessalonians 01:09

Word Data:

• Strong's: H205, H367, H410, H426, H430, H457, H1322, H1544, H1892, H3649, H4656, H4906, H5236, H5566, H6090, H6091, H6456, H6459, H6673, H6736, H6754, H7723, H8163, H8251, H8267, H8441, H8655, G1140, G1493, G1494, G1495, G1496, G1497, G2299, G2712

Forms Found in the English ULB:

disgusting figure, disgusting figures, false god, goat idols, god, goddess, gods, idol, idol's, idolater, idolaters, idolatrous, idolatry, idols, idols'

good

Related Ideas:

best, better, fair, good things, goodness, improved, prefer, proper, well

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.
• Actions that are "proper" are those that are good and right for the situation in which they are done.
• "Goods" are good things, valuable possessions.
• To "prefer" something is to think it is better than other things.

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 01:12
• Genesis 02:09
• Genesis 02:17
• James 03:13
• Romans 02:04

Word Data:

• Strong's: H155, H410, H1580, H1926, H2532, H2617, H2623, H2895, H2896, H2898, H3190, H3191, H3276, H3787, H3966, H4399, H5232, H6743, H7225, H7368, H7399, H7999, H8231, H8232, G14, G15, G18, G19, G515, G744, G865, G979, G1342, G1380, G1832, G2095, G2097, G2106, G2107, G2108, G2109, G2140, G2163, G2293, G2565, G2567, G2570, G2573, G2986, G3140, G4147, G4632, G4851, G5224, G5358, G5543, G5544, G5623

Forms Found in the English ULB:

best, better, do ... good, fair, good, good things, goodness, goods, improved, made ... better, prefer, proper, seemed good, well

grace

Related Ideas:

generous, gracious, graciously

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 04:33
• Acts 06:08
• Acts 14:04
• Colossians 04:06
• Colossians 04:18
• Genesis 43:28-29
• James 04:07
• John 01:16
• Philippians 04:21-23
• Revelation 22:20-21

Word Data:

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

Forms Found in the English ULB:

act of grace, generous, grace, gracious, graciously, graciously given

hard

Related Ideas:

hardly, hardness, hardship

Definition:

The term "hard" has several different meanings, depending on the context. It usually describes something that is difficult, persistent, or unyielding.

• An object that is "hard" is solid and firm. It is not easily broken, bent, dented, or pierced.
• Work that is "hard" is difficult to do.
• When a person works "hard", he does that work diligently and with a lot of effort to do it well.
• A person who "hardly" does something either does not do it completely or does it rarely.
• A person who goes through "hardship" is suffering or does not have what he needs.

The term "hard" can be used figuratively

• A person who has a "hard heart" is stubborn. He continues to disobey God and will not repent.
• A person whose heart is hardened has become stubbornly disobedient.

Translation Suggestions

• The terms "hardness" or "hardness of heart" or "hard heart" could be translated as "stubbornness" or "persistent rebellion" or "rebellious attitude" or "stubborn disobedience" or "stubbornly not repenting."
• The term "hardened" could also be translated as "stubbornly unrepentant" or "refusing to obey."
• "Do not harden your heart" could be translated as "do not refuse to repent" or "do not stubbornly keep disobeying."
• Other ways to translate "hard-hearted" could include "stubbornly disobedient" or "continuing to disobey" or "refusing to repent" or "always rebelling."
• In expressions such as "work hard" or "try hard," the term "hard" could be translated as "with perseverance" or "diligently."
• The expression "press hard against" could also be translated as "shove with force" or "push strongly against."
• To "oppress people with hard labor" could be translated as "force people to work so hard that they suffer" or "cause people to suffer by forcing them to do very difficult work."
• A different kind of "hard labor" is experienced by a woman who is about to deliver a baby.

(See also: disobey, evil, heart, labor pains, stiff-necked)

Bible References:

• 2 Corinthians 11:23
• Deuteronomy 15:07
• Exodus 14:04
• Hebrews 04:07
• John 12:40
• Matthew 19:08

Word Data:

• Strong's: H553, H1692, H2388, H2389, H2420, H2864, H3021, H3332, H3513, H3515, H3966, H4164, H4165, H4522, H4751, H4784, H4843, H5450, H5647, H5797, H5810, H5980, H5999, H6089, H6381, H7185, H7188, H7280, H8068, H8307, H8513, H8631, G917, G1421, G1422, G1423, G2205, G2478, G2553, G2872, G2873, G3425, G3433, G4053, G4183, G4456, G4457, G4641, G4642, G4643, G4645, G4912

Forms Found in the English ULB:

hard, harden, hardened, hardening, hardens, harder, hardest, hardly, hardness, hardship, hardships

head

Definition:

In the Bible, the word "head" is used with several figurative meanings.

• Often this term is used to refer to a ruler or to someone who has authority over people, as in "you have made me the head over nations."
• Jesus is called the "head of the church." Just as a person's head guides and directs the members of its body, so Jesus guides and directs the members of his "body," the Church.
• The New Testament teaches that a husband is the "head" or authority of his wife. He is given the responsibility of leading and guiding his wife and family.
• The term "head" can also represent the whole person, as in "this gray head," referring to an elderly person, or as in "the head of Joseph," which refers to Joseph.
• The expression "no razor will ever touch his head" means" he will never cut or shave his hair."
• The expression "let their blood be on his own head" means that the man is responsible for their deaths and will receive the punishment for that.
• The expression "heads of grain" refers to the top parts of a wheat or barley plant that contains the seeds.
• The term "head" can also refer to the beginning or source of something, as in the "head of the street."

Translation Suggestions

• Depending on the context, the term "head" could be translated as "ruler" or "the one who leads and directs" or "the one who is responsible for."
• The expression "head of" can refer to the whole person and so this expression could be translated using just the person's name. For example, "the head of Joseph" could simply be translated as "Joseph."
• The expression "will be on his own head" could be translated as "will be on him" or "he will be punished for" or "he will be held responsible for" or "he will be considered guilty for."
• Depending on the context, other ways to translate this term could include "beginning" or "source" or "ruler" or "leader" or "top."

(See also: grain)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 01:51-54
• 1 Kings 08:1-2
• 1 Samuel 09:22
• Colossians 02:10
• Colossians 02:19
• Numbers 01:04

Word Data:

• Strong's: H441, H1538, H4425, H4761, H4763, H5110, H5324, H6285, H6915, H6936, H7139, H7144, H7146, H7217, H7226, H7218, H7541, H7636, H7641, H7872, G346, G755, G2775, G2776, G4719

Forms Found in the English ULB:

head, heads

heart

Related Ideas:

kidneys

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.
• The kidneys are also used as a synecdoche for the physical inner organs and as a metonym for a person's innermost thoughts and emotions.

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" or "inner self".
• 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 03:17
• 1 Thessalonians 02:04
• 2 Thessalonians 03:13-15
• Acts 08:22
• Acts 15:09
• Luke 08:15
• Mark 02:06
• Matthew 05:08
• Matthew 22:37

Word Data:

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

Forms Found in the English ULB:

heart, hearts, kidneys

heaven

Related Ideas:

heavenly, in midair, overhead, sky

Definition:

The term that is translated as "heaven" usually refers to where God lives. The same word can also mean "sky," depending on the context.

• The term "heavens" refers to everything we see above the earth, including the sun, moon, and stars. It also includes the heavenly bodies, such as far-off planets, that we can't directly see from the earth.
• The term "sky" refers to the blue expanse above the earth that has clouds and the air we breathe. Often the sun and moon are also said to be "up in the sky."
• In some contexts in the Bible, the word "heaven" could refer to either the sky or the place where God lives.
• When "heaven" is used figuratively, it is a way of referring to God. For example, when Matthew writes about the "kingdom of heaven" he is referring to the kingdom of God.

Translation Suggestions:

• When "heaven" is used figuratively, it could be translated as "God."
• For "kingdom of heaven" in the book of Matthew, it is best to keep the word "heaven" since this is distinctive to Matthew's gospel.
• The terms "heavens" or "heavenly bodies" could also be translated as, "sun, moon, and stars" or "all the stars in the universe."
• The phrase, "stars of heaven" could be translated as "stars in the sky" or "stars in the galaxy" or "stars in the universe."

(See also: kingdom of God)

Bible References:

• 1 Kings 08:22-24
• 1 Thessalonians 01:8-10
• 1 Thessalonians 04:17
• Deuteronomy 09:01
• Ephesians 06:9
• Genesis 01:01
• Genesis 07:11
• John 03:12
• John 03:27
• Matthew 05:18
• Matthew 05:46-48

Word Data:

• Strong's: H7834, H8064, H8065, G932, G2032, G3321, G3770, G3771, G3772

Forms Found in the English ULB:

heaven, heavenly, heavens, in midair, overhead, skies, sky

heir

Definition:

An "heir" is a person who legally receives property or money that belonged to a person who has died.

• In Bible times, the main heir was the firstborn son, who received most of the property and money of his father.
• The Bible also uses "heir" in a figurative sense to refer to person who as a Christian receives spiritual benefits from God, his spiritual father.
• As God's children, Christians are said to be "joint heirs" with Jesus Christ. This could also be translated as "co-heirs" or "fellow heirs" or "heirs together with."
• The term "heir" could be translated as "person receiving benefits" or whatever expression is used in the language to communicate the meaning of someone who receives property and other things when a parent or other relative dies.

(See also: firstborn, inherit)

Bible References:

• Galatians 04:1-2
• Galatians 04:07
• Genesis 15:01
• Genesis 21:10-11
• Luke 20:14
• Mark 12:07
• Matthew 21:38-39

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1121, H3423, G2816, G2818, G2820, G4789

Forms Found in the English ULB:

heir, heirs

holy

Related Ideas:

holiness, sacred, unholy

Definition:

The terms "holy" and "holiness" refer to the character of God that is totally set apart and separated from everything that is sinful and imperfect.

• Only God is absolutely holy. He makes people and things holy.
• A person who is holy belongs to God and has been set apart for the purpose of serving God and bringing him glory.
• An object that God has declared to be holy is one that he has set apart for his glory and use, such as an altar that is for the purpose of offering sacrifices to him.
• People cannot approach him unless he allows them to, because he is holy and they are merely human beings, sinful and imperfect.
• In the Old Testament, God set apart the priests as holy for special service to him. They had to be ceremonially cleansed from sin in order to approach God.
• God also set apart as holy certain places and things that belonged to him or in which he revealed himself, such as his temple.
• Believers in Jesus are holy people, not because of what they have done, but rather because of their faith in the saving work of Jesus Christ. He is the one who makes them holy.
• When people of any religion, true or false, consider something "sacred," they consider it holy according to their religion.

Literally, the term "unholy" means "not holy." It describes someone or something that does not honor God.

• This word is used to describe someone who dishonors God by rebelling against him.
• A thing that is called "unholy" could be described as being common, profane or unclean. It does not belong to God.

The term "sacred" describes something that relates to worshiping God or to the pagan worship of false gods.

• In the Old Testament, the term "sacred" was often used to describe the stone pillars and other objects used in the worship of false gods. This could also be translated as "religious."
• "Sacred songs" and "sacred music" refer to music that was sung or played for God's glory. This could be translated as "music for worshiping Yahweh" or "songs that praise God."
• The phrase "sacred duties" referred to the "religious duties" or "rituals" that a priest performed to lead people in worshiping God. It could also refer to the rituals performed by a pagan priest to worship a false god.
• The phrase "sacred gifts" refers to things that someone has set apart for God and then given to God at the temple.

Translation Suggestions:

• Ways to translate "holy" might include "set apart for God" or "belonging to God" or "completely pure" or "perfectly sinless" or "separated from sin."

• To "make holy" is often translated as "sanctify" in English. It could also be translated as "set apart (someone) for God's glory."

• Ways to translate "unholy" could include "not holy" or "not belonging to God" or "not honoring to God" or "not godly."

• In some contexts, "unholy" could be translated as "unclean."

(See also: Holy Spirit, consecrate, sanctify, set apart)

Bible References:

• Genesis 28:22
• 2 Kings 03:02
• Lamentations 04:01
• Ezekiel 20:18-20
• Matthew 07:6
• Mark 08:38
• Acts 07:33
• Acts 11:08
• Romans 01:02
• 2 Corinthians 12:3-5
• Colossians 01:22
• 1 Thessalonians 03:13
• 1 Thessalonians 04:07
• 2 Timothy 03:15
• 1 Timothy 05:10
• 2 Corinthians 09:12-15
• Revelation 16:06
• Revelation 20:9-10

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2455, H2623, H4676, H4720, H6918, H6922, H6942, H6944, H6948, G37, G38, G39, G40, G41, G42, G462, G2150, G2413, G2839, G3741, G3742

Forms Found in the English ULB:

holier, holiest, holiness, holy, holy duties, honored as holy, makes ... holy, sacred, sacred gifts, sacred places, unholy

honor

Related Ideas:

dignified, esteem, held in honor, highly regarded, honorable, of high standing, places of honor, recognition

Definition:

The terms "honor" and to "honor" refer to giving someone respect, esteem, or reverence.

• Honor is usually given to someone who is of higher status and importance, such as a king or God.
• God instructs Christians to honor others.
• Children are instructed to honor their parents in ways that include respecting them and obeying them.
• The terms "honor" and "glory" are often used together, especially when referring to Jesus. These may be two different ways of referring to the same thing.
• Ways of honoring God include thanking and praising him, and showing him respect by obeying him and living in a way that shows how great he is.
• To "esteem" someone is to consider him worthy of great honor.

Translation Suggestions:

• Other ways to translate "honor" could include "respect" or "esteem" or "high regard."
• The term to "honor" could be translated as to "show special respect to" or to "cause to be praised" or to "show high regard for" or to "highly value."

(See also: dishonor, glory, glory, praise)

Bible References:

• 1 Samuel 02:8
• Acts 19:17
• John 04:44
• John 12:26
• Mark 06:04
• Matthew 15:06

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1420, H1921, H1922, H1923, H1926, H1935, H2082, H2142, H3366, H3367, H3368, H3372, H3373, H3374, H3444, H3513, H3519, H3655, H3678, H5081, H5082, H5375, H5457, H6213, H6286, H6437, H6942, H6944, H6965, H7236, H7613, H7812, H8597, H8416, G820, G1391, G1392, G1741, G1784, G2151, G2233, G2570, G3170, G4411, G4586, G5091, G5092, G5093, G5399

Forms Found in the English ULB:

dignified, esteem, held in honor, highly regarded, honor, honorable, honored, honoring, honors, of high standing, places of honor, recognition

hope

Definition:

Hope is strongly desiring something to happen. Hope can imply either certainty or uncertainty regarding a future event.

• In the Bible, the term "hope" also has the meaning of "trust," as in "my hope is in the Lord." It refers to a sure expectation of receiving what God has promised his people.
• To have "no hope" means to have no expectation of something good happening. It means that it is actually very certain that it will not happen.

Translation Suggestions:

• In some contexts, the term to "hope" could also be translated as to "wish" or to "desire" or to "expect."
• The expression "nothing to hope for" could be translated as "nothing to trust in" or "no expectation of anything good"
• To "have no hope" could be translated as "have no expectation of anything good" or "have no security" or "be sure that nothing good will happen."
• The expression "have set your hopes on" could also be translated as "have put your confidence in" or "have been trusting in."
• The phrase "I find hope in your Word" could also be translated as "I am confident that your Word is true" or "Your Word helps me trust in you" or "When I obey your Word, I am certain to be blessed."
• Phrases such as "hope in" God could also be translated a, "trust in God" or "know for sure that God will do what he has promised" or "be certain that God is faithful."

(See also: bless, confidence, good, obey, trust, word of God)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 29:14-15
• 1 Thessalonians 02:19
• Acts 24:14-16
• Acts 26:06
• Acts 27:20
• Colossians 01:05
• Job 11:20

Word Data:

• Strong's: H982, H983, H986, H1891, H2976, H3176, H3689, H4009, H4723, H7663, H7664, H8431, H8615, G1679, G1680, G2070, G4276

Forms Found in the English ULB:

hope, hoped, hopes, look to ... in hope, uselessly hope

house

Related Ideas:

home, residence

Definition:

The term "house" is often used figuratively in the Bible.

• Sometimes it means "household," referring to the people who live together in one house.
• Often "house" refers to a person's descendants or other relatives. For example, the phrase "house of David" refers to all the descendants of King David.
• The terms "house of God" and "house of Yahweh" refer to the tabernacle or temple. These expressions can also refer generally to where God is or dwells.
• In Hebrews 3, "God's house" is used as a metaphor to refer to God's people or, more generally, to everything pertaining to God.
• A "residence" is any place in which people live without plans to move to another place.

Translation Suggestions

• Depending on the context, "house" could be translated as "household" or "people" or "family" or "descendants" or "temple" or "dwelling place."
• The phrase "house of David" could be translated as "clan of David" or "family of David" or "descendants of David." Related expressions could be translated in a similar way.
• Different ways to translate "house of Israel" could include "people of Israel" or "Israel's descendants" or "Israelites."
• The phrase "house of Yahweh" could be translated as "Yahweh's temple" or "place where Yahweh is worshiped" or "place where Yahweh meets with his people" or "where Yahweh dwells."
• "House of God" could be translated in a similar way.

(See also: David, descendant, house of God, household, kingdom of Israel, tabernacle, temple, Yahweh)

Bible References:

• Acts 07:42
• Acts 07:49
• Genesis 39:04
• Genesis 41:40
• Luke 08:39
• Matthew 10:06
• Matthew 15:24

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1004, H1005, H4585, H5116, G3609, G3613, G3614, G3624

Forms Found in the English ULB:

home, homes, house, house's, houses, residence

household

Related Ideas:

household members

Definition:

The term "household" refers to all the people who live together in a house, including family members and all their servants.

• Managing a household would involves directing the servants and also taking care of the property.
• Sometimes "household" can refer figuratively to the whole family line of someone, especially his descendants.

(See also: house)

Bible References:

• Acts 07:10
• Galatians 06:10
• Genesis 07:01
• Genesis 34:19
• John 04:53
• Matthew 10:25
• Matthew 10:36
• Philippians 04:22

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1004, H5657, G2322, G3609, G3614, G3615, G3616, G3623, G3624, G3626

Forms Found in the English ULB:

household, household members, households, members of household

humble

Related Ideas:

humbly, humility, lowliness of mind

Definition:

The term "humble" describes a person who does not think of himself as better than others. He is not proud or arrogant. Humility is the quality of being humble.

• To be humble before God means to understand one's weakness and imperfection in comparison with his greatness, wisdom and perfection.
• When a person humbles himself, he puts himself in a position of lower importance.
• Humility is caring about the needs of others more than one's own needs.
• Humility also means serving with a modest attitude when using one's gifts and abilities.
• The phrase "be humble" could be translated as "don't be prideful."
• "Humble yourself before God" could be translated as "Submit your will to God, recognizing his greatness."

(See also: proud)

Bible References:

• James 01:21
• James 03:13
• James 04:10
• Luke 14:11
• Luke 18:14
• Matthew 18:04
• Matthew 23:12

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1792, H3665, H6031, H6035, H6038, H6041, H6800, H6819, H7511, H7807, H7812, H8213, H8214, H8215, H8217, H8467, G858, G4236, G4239, G4240, G5011, G5012, G5013, G5391

Forms Found in the English ULB:

humble, humbled, humbles, humbling, humbly, humility, lowliness of mind

in Christ

Related Ideas:

in Christ Jesus, in Jesus, in the Lord, in the Lord Jesus, into Christ

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 02:05
• 2 Corinthians 02:17
• 2 Timothy 01:01
• Galatians 01:22
• Galatians 02:17
• Philemon 01:06
• Revelation 01:10
• Romans 09:01

Word Data:

• Strong's: G2962, G5547

Forms Found in the English ULB:

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

joy

Related Ideas:

enjoy, enjoyment, glad, gladness, greet, joyful, joyfulness, jubilant, merry-hearted, rejoice, source of gladness

Definition:

Joy is a feeling of delight or deep satisfaction that comes from God. The related term "joyful" describes a person who feels very glad and is full of deep happiness.

• A person feels joy when he has a deep sense that what he is experiencing is very good.
• God is the one who gives true joy to people.
• Having joy does not depend on pleasant circumstances. God can give people joy even when very difficult things are happening in their lives.
• Sometimes places are described as joyful, such as houses or cities. This means that the people who live there are joyful.
• To "salute" is to greet a high-ranking government or military official.
• "Jubilant" is another word for "joyful."

The term "rejoice" means to be full of joy and gladness.

• This term often refers to being very happy about the good things that God has done.
• It could be translated as "be very happy" or "be very glad" or "be full of joy."
• When Mary said "my soul rejoices in God my Savior," she meant "God my Savior has made me very happy" or "I feel so joyful because of what God my Savior has done for me."

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "joy" could also be translated as "gladness" or "delight" or "great happiness."
• The phrase, "be joyful" could be translated as "rejoice" or "be very glad" or it could be translated "be very happy in God's goodness."
• A person who is joyful could be described as "very happy" or "delighted" or "deeply glad."
• A phrase such as "make a joyful shout" could be translated as "shout in a way that shows you are very happy."
• A "joyful city" or "joyful house" could be translated as "city where joyful people live" or "house full of joyful people" or "city whose people are very happy."

Bible References:

• Nehemiah 08:10
• Psalm 048:02
• Isaiah 56:6-7
• Jeremiah 15:15-16
• Matthew 02:9-10
• Luke 15:07
• Luke 19:37-38
• John 03:29
• Acts 16:32-34
• Romans 05:1-2
• Romans 15:30-32
• Galatians 05:23
• Philippians 04:10-13
• 1 Thessalonians 01:6-7
• 1 Thessalonians 05:16
• Philemon 01:4-7
• James 01:02
• 3 John 01:1-4

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1288, H1523, H1524, H1525, H2287, H2302, H2304, H2305, H2654, H2896, H2898, H3190, H4885, H5727, H5937, H5947, H5965, H5970, H6342, H6670, H7440, H7442, H7444, H7445, H7797, H7832, H7965, H8055, H8056, H8057, H8342, H8643, G20, G21, G782, G2165, G2167, G2744, G4640, G4796, G4913, G5463, G5479

Forms Found in the English ULB:

be glad, be merry, enjoy, enjoyed, enjoying, enjoyment, enjoys, glad, gladness, greet, greeted, greeting, greetings, greets, joy, joyful, joyful shouting, joyfully, joyfulness, jubilant, make ... glad, makes ... glad, merry-hearted, rejoice, rejoiced, rejoiced greatly, rejoices, rejoices greatly, rejoicing, shout for joy, shout joyfully, shout of joy, shouts of joy, source of gladness, was merry

kin

Related Ideas:

kindred, kinfolk, kinsman, relative

Definition:

The term "kin" refers to a person's blood relatives, considered as a group. The word "kinsman" refers specifically to a male relative.

• "Kin" can only refer to a person's close relatives, such as parents and siblings, or it can also include more distant relatives, such as an aunts, uncles, or cousins.
• In ancient Israel, if a man died, his nearest male relative was expected to marry his widow, manage his property, and help carry on his family name. This relative was called a "kinsman-redeemer."
• This term "kin" could also be translated as, "relative" or "family member."

Bible References:

• Romans 16:9-11
• Ruth 02:20
• Ruth 03:09

Word Data:

• Strong's: H251, H1350, H1353, H1730, H4129, H4130, H4138, H4940, H7138, H7607, G1085, G4773

Forms Found in the English ULB:

kin, kindred, kinfolk, kinsfolk, kinsman, kinsmen, relative, relatives

king

Related Ideas:

kingly, kingship

Definition:

The term "king" refers to a man who is the supreme ruler of a city, state, or country.

• A king was usually chosen to rule because of his family relation to previous kings.
• When a king died, it was usually his oldest son who became the next king.
• In ancient times, the king had absolute authority over the people in his kingdom.
• Rarely the term "king" was used to refer to someone who was not a true king, such as "King Herod" in the New Testament.
• In the Bible, God is often referred to as a king who rules over his people.
• The "kingdom of God" refers to God's rule over his people.
• Jesus was called "king of the Jews," "king of Israel," and "king of kings."
• When Jesus comes back, he will rule as king over the world.
• This term could also be translated as "supreme chief" or "absolute leader" or "sovereign ruler."
• The phrase "king of kings" could be translated as "king who rules over all other kings" or "supreme ruler who has authority over all other rulers."

(See also: authority, Herod Antipas, kingdom, kingdom of God)

Bible References:

• 1 Timothy 06:15-16
• 2 Kings 05:18
• 2 Samuel 05:03
• Acts 07:9-10
• Acts 13:22
• John 01:49-51
• Luke 01:05
• Luke 22:24-25
• Matthew 05:35
• Matthew 14:09

Word Data:

• Strong's: H4427, H4428, H4430, G935, G936, G937

Forms Found in the English ULB:

king, king's, kingly, kings, kingship, made ... king, set up ... king, set up kings

know

Related Ideas:

knowledge, make known, unknowingly, unknown

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."
• If a person does something "unknowingly," he does it without knowing that he is doing it.

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.
• To "train for" an activity is to learn now to do it well. To train for war is to learn by practice how to be a good fighter.

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

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 02:12-13
• 1 Samuel 17:46
• 2 Corinthians 02:15
• 2 Peter 01:3-4
• Deuteronomy 04:39-40
• Genesis 19:05
• Luke 01:77

Word Data:

• Strong's: H502, H1843, H1844, H1847, H1875, H2713, H2372, H3045, H3046, H3925, H4093, H4486, H5046, H5234, H5475, H5869, G50, G56, G1097, G1107, G1108, G1492, G1834, G1921, G1922, G1987, G2467, G5319, G2589, G2657, G4267, G4894, G5318

Forms Found in the English ULB:

knew, know, know ... beforehand, knowing, knowledge, known, knows, made ... known, made known, make ... known, makes known, unknowingly, unknown

labor

Related Ideas:

fellow laborers, forced labor, hard labor, hard-working, laborer, occupation, strive, struggle, toil

Definition:

The term "labor" refers to doing physical work of any kind.

• In general, labor is any task which uses energy. It is often implied that the task is difficult.
• A laborer is a person who does any type of labor.
• In English, the word "labor" is also used for part of the process of giving birth. Other languages may have a completely different word for this.
• Ways to translate "labor" could include "work" or "hard work" or "difficult work" or to "work hard."
• "Toil" is hard, unpleasant work, and to "toil" is to do hard, unpleasant work.
• An "occupation" is the work or labor that a person does to obtain food, clothing, shelter, and the other things he needs to live.
• Sometimes "strive" and "struggle" mean to work very hard to do something.

(See also: hard, labor pains)

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 02:09
• 1 Thessalonians 03:05
• Galatians 04:10-11
• James 05:04
• John 04:38
• Luke 10:02
• Matthew 10:10

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3018, H3021, H3022, H3205, H4522, H4639, H5447, H5450, H5647, H5656, H5998, H5999, H6001, H6089, H6468, H8104, G75, G2038, G2040, G2041, G2716, G2872, G2873, G3449, G4866, G4904

Forms Found in the English ULB:

fellow laborers, forced labor, hard labor, hard-working, labor, labored, laborer, laborer's, laborers, laboring, labors, occupation, product of ... labor, products of ... labor, strive, strives, striving together, struggle, toil, toiled, toiling, toils

law

Related Ideas:

lawbreaker, lawgiver, lawyer, principle

Definition:

A "law" is a legal rule that is usually written down and enforced by someone in authority. A "principle" is a guideline for decision-making and behavior.

• Often the term "law" refers to the "law of Moses." This is the commands and instructions that God gave the Israelites.
• God is the lawgiver, the one who made the laws and commanded people to obey them.
• A "lawyer" is a person who studies the law and understands it well.
• Both "law" and "principle" can refer to a general rule or belief that guides a person's behavior.
• A person who "is principled" is a person who does what is good.

(See also: law of Moses)

Bible References:

• Deuteronomy 04:02
• Esther 03:8-9
• Exodus 12:12-14
• Genesis 26:05
• John 18:31
• Romans 07:1

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1285, H1881, H1882, H2706, H2708, H2710, H4687, H4941, H5715, H7560, H7771, H8451, G1785, G3544, G3548, G3551, G3848, G4747

Forms Found in the English ULB:

law, lawbreaker, lawbreakers, lawgiver, laws, lawyer, principle, principled, principles

life

Related Ideas:

alive, come to life, conduct, exist, fresh, life-giving, lifetime, live, revive, survive, survivor

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."
• To "revive" is for someone who is dead or almost dead to live again, or to take something or someone who is dead or almost dead and make him live again.
• A person who "survives" has almost died for some reason but is still alive.
• The same Hebrew words can be translated "fresh" water or "living" water.
• Things that are "lifeless" either have never been alive or were once alive but are now dead.
• The way a person "conducts" himself or his life is the way he lives his life, most importantly the morally good or bad things he does.

2. Spiritual life

• A person has spiritual life when he believes in Jesus. 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."
• Depending on the context, 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."
• 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." The word "life-giving" can be translated as "something that causes to live" or "something that gives life."

(See also: death, everlasting)

Bible References:

• 2 Peter 01:03
• Acts 10:42
• Genesis 02:07
• Genesis 07:22
• Hebrews 10:20
• Jeremiah 44:02
• John 01:04
• Judges 02:18
• Luke 12:23
• Matthew 07:14

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2416, H2417, H2418, H2421, H2425, H2465, H2673, H3351, H3824, H3885, H4241, H5315, H5397, H5564, H6106, H7611, H8141, H8300, G326, G386, G390, G895, G979, G980, G981, G982, G1127, G1236, G1514, G2198, G2222, G2225, G2227, G2450, G3118, G4176, G4684, G4748, G4763, G4800, G4806, G5171, G5225, G5590

Forms Found in the English ULB:

alive, come to life, conduct, conducted, existed, fresh, keep ... alive, life, life-giving, lifeless, lifetime, live, lived, lives, living, revive, revived, survive, survived, survivor, survivors

light

Related Ideas:

bright, brightness, enlighten, shine

Definition:

There are several figurative uses of the term "light" in the Bible. It is often used as a metaphor for righteousness, holiness, and truth.

• Jesus said, "I am the light of the world" to express that he brings God's true message to the world and rescues people from the darkness of their sin.
• Christians are commanded to "walk in the light," which means they should be living the way God wants them to and avoiding evil.
• The apostle John stated that "God is light" and in him there is no darkness at all.
• Light and darkness are complete opposites. Darkness is the absence of all light.
• Jesus said that he was "the light of the world" and that his followers should shine like lights in the world by living in a way that clearly shows how great God is.
• "Walking in the light" represents living in a way that pleases God, doing what is good and right. Walking in darkness represents living in rebellion against God, doing evil things.

Translation Suggestions:

• When translating, it is important to keep the literal terms "light" and "darkness" even when they are used figuratively.
• It may be necessary to explain the comparison in the text. For example, "walk as children of light" could be translated as, "live openly righteous lives, like someone who walks in bright sunlight."
• Make sure that the translation of "light" does not refer to an object that gives light, such as a lamp. The translation of this term should refer to the light itself.

(See also: darkness, holy, righteous, true)

Bible References:

• 1 John 01:07
• 1 John 02:08
• 2 Corinthians 04:06
• Acts 26:18
• Isaiah 02:05
• John 01:05
• Matthew 05:16
• Matthew 06:23
• Nehemiah 09:12-13
• Revelation 18:23-24

Word Data:

• Strong's: H216, H217, H3313, H3974, H5051, H5094, H5105, H5216, G681, G796, G1391, G1645, G2985, G2986, G3088, G5338, G5457, G5458, G5460, G5462

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bright, brightness, enlighten, enlightened, light, lighting, lights, shining

like

Related Ideas:

according to, alike, as, as if, compare, in the same way, just as, liken, likeness, likewise, resemble, similar, similarly, unlike

Definition:

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

• To "compare" two things is to look at how they are the same or how they are different.
• 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."
• 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.
• The word "likewise" means "in the same way," referring to something that the speaker has just said.
• The word "unlike" means "not like."

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 01:05
• Mark 08:24
• Matthew 17:02
• Matthew 18:03
• Psalms 073:05
• Revelation 01:12-13

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1819, H1823, H3644, H4915, H7737, H8403, H8544, G1503, G1504, G2509, G2531, G3664, G3665, G3666, G3667, G3668, G3669, G3697, G4793, G4833, G5108, G5615, G5616, G5618, G5619

Forms Found in the English ULB:

according to, alike, as, as if, be ... like, become ... like, compare, in the same way, is ... like, just as, like, liken, likeness, likenesses, likewise, resemble, resembled, similar to, similarly, the same, the same way, unlike

love

Related Ideas:

brotherly love

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 having good things happen to others even when those good things do not happen to the one who loves. 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.

2. 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.

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

4. 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 13:07
• 1 John 03:02
• 1 Thessalonians 04:10
• Galatians 05:23
• Genesis 29:18
• Isaiah 56:06
• Jeremiah 02:02
• John 03:16
• Matthew 10:37
• Nehemiah 09:32-34
• Philippians 01:09
• Song of Solomon 01:02

Word Data:

• Strong's: H157, H158, H159, H160, H1730, H2245, H2532, H2617, H2836, H3039, H4261, H5689, H5690, H7355, H7356, H7453, H7474, G25, G26, G5360, G5361, G5362, G5363, G5365, G5367, G5368, G5369, G5377, G5383, G5388

Forms Found in the English ULB:

brotherly love, love, loved, loves, loving

lowly

Related Ideas:

bring down, low condition, low position, lowliest, lowliness

Definition:

The terms "lowly" and "lowliness" refer to being poor or having low status. Being lowly can also have the meaning of being humble.

• Jesus humbled himself to the lowly position of becoming a human being and serving others.
• Having a lowly attitude is the opposite of being proud.
• Ways to translate "lowly" could include "humble" or "of low status" or "unimportant."
• The word "lowliness" could also be translated as "humility" or "little importance."

(See also: humble, proud)

Bible References:

• Acts 20:19
• Ezekiel 17:14
• Luke 01:48-49
• Romans 12:16

Word Data:

• Strong's: H6041, H6819, H7034, H8213, H8216, H8217, G5011, G5012, G5014

Forms Found in the English ULB:

bring ... down, bring ... low, brings ... down, brings ... low, brought low, low condition, low position, low positions, lowliest, lowliness, lowly, of low condition

member

Definition:

The term "member" refers to one part of a complex body or group.

• The New Testament describes Christians as "members" of the body of Christ. Believers in Christ belong to a group that is made up of many members.
• Jesus Christ is the "head" of the body and individual believers function as the members of the body. The Holy Spirit gives each member of the body a special role to help the entire body to function well.
• Individuals who participate in groups such as the Jewish Council and the Pharisees are also called "members" of these groups.

(See also: body, Pharisee, council)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 06:15
• 1 Corinthians 12:14-17
• Numbers 16:02
• Romans 12:05

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1004, H1121, H3338, H5315, G1010, G3196, G3609

Forms Found in the English ULB:

member, members

mercy

Related Ideas:

kindness, merciful, spare

Definition:

The terms "mercy" and "merciful" refer to helping people who are in need, especially when they are in a lowly or humbled condition.

• The term "mercy" can also include the meaning of not punishing people for something they have done wrong.
• A powerful person such as a king is described as "merciful" when he treats people kindly instead of harming them.
• To "be merciful" or "spare" someone who has done wrong to another means to forgive that person.
• An evil person who "spares" those who have done nothing wrong does not do the same wrong to them that he has done to others.
• We show mercy when we help people who are in great need.
• God is merciful to us, and he wants us to be merciful to others.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, "mercy" could be translated as "kindness" or "compassion" or "pity."
• The term "merciful" could be translated as "showing pity" or "being kind to" or "forgiving."
• To "show mercy to" or "have mercy on" could be translated as "treat kindly" or "be compassionate toward."

(See also: compassion, forgive)

Bible References:

• 1 Peter 01:3-5
• 1 Timothy 01:13
• Daniel 09:17
• Exodus 34:06
• Genesis 19:16
• Hebrews 10:28-29
• James 02:13
• Luke 06:35-36
• Matthew 09:27
• Philippians 02:25-27
• Psalms 041:4-6
• Romans 12:01

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2550, H2551, H2603, H2604, H2617, H3722, H7349, H7355, H7356, H7359, H8467, G1653, G1655, G1656, G2433, G2436, G3628, G3629, G4698, G5363, G5544

Forms Found in the English ULB:

kindness, mercies, merciful, mercy, spare, spared, spares, tender mercy

messenger

Related Ideas:

courier, herald

Definitions:

The term "messenger" refers to someone who is given a message to tell others.

• In ancient times, a messenger would be sent from the battlefield to tell people back in the city what was happening.
• An angel is a special kind of messenger whom God sends to give people messages. Some translations translate "angel" as "messenger."
• John the Baptist was called a messenger who came before Jesus to announce the Messiah's coming and to prepare people to receive him.
• Jesus' apostles were his messengers to go share with other people the good news about the kingdom of God.
• A "herald" or a "courier" is a messenger who carries messages from rulers to their subjects.

(See also: angel, apostle, John (the Baptist))

Bible References:

• 1 Kings 19:1-3
• 1 Samuel 06:21
• 2 Kings 01:1-2
• Luke 07:27
• Matthew 11:10

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1319, H4397, H4398, H5046, H6735, H6737, G32, G652

Forms Found in the English ULB:

couriers, herald, messenger, messengers

mind

Related Ideas:

expect, intention, likeminded, mindful, sober, think

Definition:

The term "mind" refers to the part of a person that thinks and makes decisions.

• The mind of each person is the total of his or her thoughts and reasoning.
• To "have the mind of Christ" means to think and act as Jesus Christ would think and act. It means being obedient to God the Father, obeying the teachings of Christ, being enabled to do this through the power of the Holy Spirit.
• To "change his mind" means someone made a different decision or had a different opinion than he had previously.
• To "expect" something is to think that it will happen.
• To "think" can mean to use one's mind to form ideas.
• To "think" can also mean to have a belief or opinion about something.
• To "intend" or "have an intention" to do something is to decide or to plan to do that thing. That thing may be good or evil, and the person may or may not want to do it, but he plans to do it.
• A person who is "sober" is able to think clearly, especially in contrast to a person who has harmed his mind by drinking to much wine.

Translation Suggestions

• The term "mind" could also be translated as "thoughts" or "reasoning" or "thinking" or "understanding."
• The expression "keep in mind" could be translated as "remember" or "pay attention to this" or "be sure to know this."
• The expression "heart, soul, and mind" could also be translated as "what you feel, what you believe, and what you think about."
• The expression "call to mind" could be translated as "remember" or "think about."
• The expression "double-minded" could also be translated as "doubting" or "unable to decide" or "with conflicting thoughts."

(See also: believe, heart, soul)

Bible References:

• Luke 10:27
• Mark 06:51-52
• Matthew 21:29
• Matthew 22:37
• James 04:08

Word Data:

• Strong's: H226, H1079, G1380, H1843, H3629, H3820, H3824, H3825, H4093, H4150, H5162, H6419, H6725, H6734, H7217, H7725, G364, G1271, G1374, G1839, G2233, G2657, G3328, G3525, G3539, G3540, G3563, G4102, G4993, G5280, G5426, G5427, G5590

Forms Found in the English ULB:

expect, expected, intention, likeminded, mind, minded, mindful, minds, sober, think, think carefully about, thinks, thought, thoughts

name

Related Ideas:

fame, nameless, notorious, reputation

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."
• People who are "nameless" are unimportant, so few people know about them or care about them.
• A person who is "notorious" is one who has a reputation for evil or foolishness.

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
• 2 Timothy 02:19
• Acts 04:07
• Acts 04:12
• Acts 09:27
• Genesis 12:02
• Genesis 35:10
• Matthew 18:05

Word Data:

• Strong's: H5344, H7761, H8034, H8036, G2028, G2564, G3140, G3141, G3686, G3687, G5122

Forms Found in the English ULB:

fame, name, name's, named, nameless, names, notorious, reputation

obey

Related Ideas:

follow, give ear, hear, hold securely, hold to, keep, listen, obedience, obedient

Definition:

The term "obey" means to do what is required or commanded. The term "obedient" describes someone who obeys. "Obedience" is the characteristic that an obedient person has.

• Usually the term "obey" is used in the context of obeying the commands or laws of a person in authority.
• For example, people obey laws which are created by the leaders of a country, kingdom, or other organization.
• Children obey their parents, slaves obey their masters, people obey God, and citizens obey the laws of their country.
• When someone in authority commands people not to do something, the people obey by not doing that.
• To "observe" a law or command is to obey it.
• Other words used to refer to obeying someone or something are: follow, give ear, hear, hold securely, hold to, keep, listen.

Translation Suggestions:

• Ways to translate "obey" could include a word or phrase that means "do what is commanded" or "follow orders" or "do what God says to do."
• The term "obedient" could be translated as "doing what was commanded" or "following orders" or "doing what God commands."

(See also: citizen, command, disobey, kingdom, law)

Bible References:

• Acts 05:32
• Acts 06:7
• Genesis 28:6-7
• James 01:25
• James 02:10
• Luke 06:47
• Matthew 07:26
• Matthew 19:20-22
• Matthew 28:20

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2388, H3349, H4928, H5341, H6213, H7181, H8085, H8086, H8104, G191, G2722, G2902, G3980, G3982, G5083, G5084, G5218, G5219, G5255, G5292, G5293, G5426, G5442

Forms Found in the English ULB:

following, give ... ear, hear, heard, hold ... securely, hold to, keep, keeps, kept, listen, listened, listened to, obedience, obedient, obediently, obey, obeyed, obeying, obeys

overseer

Related Ideas:

overseer, supervise, supervisor, visitation

Definition:

The term "overseer" refers to a person who is in charge of the work and welfare of other people.

• In the Old Testament, an overseer had the job of making sure the workers under him did their work well.
• In the New Testament, overseers were leaders of the early Christian church. Their work was to take care of the spiritual needs of the church, making sure the believers received accurate biblical teaching.
• Paul refers to an overseer as being like a shepherd who takes care of the believers in a local church, who are his "flock."
• The overseer, like a shepherd, keeps watch over the flock. He guards and protects the believers from false spiritual teaching and other evil influences.
• In the New Testament, the terms "overseers," "elders," and "shepherds/pastors" are different ways of referring to the same spiritual leaders.
• The word "supervisor" is another word for an overseer.
• The word "visitation" refers to an overseer coming to make sure that the workers over whom he has charge are working well.

Translation Suggestions

• Other ways to translate this term could be "caretaker" or "manager."
• When referring to a leader of a local group of God's people, this term could be translated with a word or phrase that means "spiritual supervisor" or "someone who takes care of the spiritual needs of a group of believers" or "person who oversees the spiritual needs of the Church."

(See also: church, elder, pastor, shepherd)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 26:31-32
• 1 Timothy 03:02
• Acts 20:28
• Genesis 41:33-34
• Philippians 01:01

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3256, H6485, H6486, H6496, H7287, H7860, H8104, H8269, G1983, G1984, G1985

Forms Found in the English ULB:

oversee, overseeing, overseen, overseer, overseers, oversees, supervise, supervised, supervisor, supervisors, visitation

palace

Definition:

The term "palace" refers to the building or house where a king lived, along with his family members and servants.

• The high priest also lived in a palace complex, as mentioned in the New Testament.
• Palaces were very ornate, with beautiful architecture and furnishings.
• The buildings and furnishings of a palace were constructed of stone or wood, and often were overlaid with expensive wood, gold, or ivory.
• Many other people also lived and worked in the palace complex, which usually included several buildings and courtyards.

(See also: courtyard, high priest, king)

Bible References:

• 2 Chronicles 28:7-8
• 2 Samuel 11:2-3
• Daniel 05:5-6
• Matthew 26:3-5
• Psalms 045:08

Word Data:

• Strong's: H759, H1002, H1004, H1055, H1406, H1964, H1965, G833, G933, G4232

Forms Found in the English ULB:

palace, palaces

peace

Related Ideas:

peaceable, peaceful, peacemaker, quiet

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.
• A person who is "peaceable" acts in a way that enables him to live in peace with other people. He acts "peaceably."
• To "quiet" someone is to get them to be at peace. To quiet a quarrel is to get the people to stop quarreling and be at peace with each other.

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 05:1-3
• Acts 07:26
• Colossians 01:18-20
• Colossians 03:15
• Galatians 05:23
• Luke 07:50
• Luke 12:51
• Mark 04:39
• Matthew 05:09
• Matthew 10:13

Word Data:

• Strong's: H5117, H7961, H7962, H7965, H7999, H8001, H8002, H8003, H8252, H8535, G269, G1514, G1515, G1516, G1517, G1518, G2272

Forms Found in the English ULB:

peace, peaceable, peaceably, peaceful, peacefully, peacemakers, quiet, quiets

perfect

Related Ideas:

perfecter, perfection, perfectly

Definition:

The term "perfect" describes something that has no flaw. To "perfect" something means to work at it until it is excellent and without flaws.

• Only God and what he does is absolutely perfect.
• When Christians study the Bible and obey it, they become perfect and mature because they become more like Christ in their character.
• Being perfect and mature means that a Christian is obedient; it does not mean that he is sinless.
• The term "perfect" also has the meaning of being "complete" or "whole."

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "perfect" could be translated as "without flaw" or "without error" or "flawless" or "without fault" or "not having any faults."
• The term "perfectly" could be translated "completely" or "fully."

Bible References:

• Hebrews 12:02
• James 03:02
• Matthew 05:46-48
• Psalms 019:7-8

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3615, H3632, H3634, H4359, H4390, H8003, H8503, H8535, H8537, H8549, H8552, G2005, G2038, G2675, G2676, G3647, G4135, G4137, G5046, G5047, G5048, G5050, G5055

Forms Found in the English ULB:

perfect, perfected, perfecter, perfection, perfectly

persecute

Related Ideas:

persecution, persecutor

Definition:

The terms "persecute" and "persecution" refer to continually treating a person or a certain group of people in a harsh way that causes harm to them.

• Persecution can be against one person or many people and usually involves repeated, persistent attacks.
• The Israelites were persecuted by many different people groups Who attacked them, captured them, and stole things from them.
• People often persecute other people who have different religious beliefs or who are weaker.
• The Jewish religious leaders persecuted Jesus because they did not like what he was teaching.
• After Jesus went back to heaven, the Jewish religious leaders and the Roman government persecuted his followers.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "persecute" could also be translated as "keep oppressing" or "treat harshly" or "continually mistreat."
• Ways to translate "persecution" could include, "harsh mistreatment" or "oppression" or "persistent hurtful treatment."

(See also: Christian, church, oppress, Rome)

Bible References:

• Acts 07:52
• Acts 13:50
• Galatians 01:13-14
• John 05:16-18
• Mark 10:30
• Matthew 05:10
• Matthew 05:43-45
• Matthew 10:22
• Matthew 13:20-21
• Philippians 03:06

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1814, H7291, H7852, G1375, G1376, G1377, G1559, G2347

Forms Found in the English ULB:

persecute, persecuted, persecuting, persecution, persecutions, persecutor, persecutors

plead

Related Ideas:

appeal, ask earnestly, humble request, plea

Definitions:

The terms "plead" and "pleading" refer to urgently asking someone to do something. A "plea" is an urgent request.

• Pleading often implies that the person feels in very great need or strongly desires help.
• People can plead or make an urgent appeal to God for mercy or to ask him to grant something, either for themselves or someone else.
• Make sure it is clear in the context that this term does not refer to begging for money.
• The word translated "humble request" refers specifically to a humble request for favor or mercy.
• To "plead someone's cause" is to testify in court before a judge that the judge should rule in favor of the person whose cause it is.
• A "legal plea" or "cause" is what someone who is trying to get justice tells a judge in a court trial.
• An "earnest appeal" is a serious, humble request.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "plead" could also be translated as "beg" or "implore" or "urgently ask."
• The term "plea" could also be translated as "urgent request" or "strong urging."

Bible References:

• 2 Corinthians 08:3-5
• Judges 06:31
• Luke 04:39
• Proverbs 18:17

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1777, H2603, H3198, H4941, H6279, H6293, H6664, H6419, H7378, H7379, H7775, H8199, H8467, H8469, G1162, G1189, G1793, G2065, G3870, G3874

Forms Found in the English ULB:

appeal, asked ... earnestly, cause, earnest appeal, earnest appeals, earnestly appeal, earnestly appealed, humble request, humble requests, legal plea, moved by ... plea, plea, plea for favor, plead, plead ... cause, pleaded, pleading, pleadings, pleads, pleas

power

Related Ideas:

ability, able, mastered, can, capable, could, impossible, incapable, powerful, won, unable

Definition:

The term "power" refers to the ability to do things or make things happen, often using great strength. "Powers" refers to people or spirits who have great ability to cause things to happen.

• The "power of God" refers to God's ability to do everything, especially things that are not possible for people to do.
• God has complete power over everything that he has created.
• God gives his people power to do what he wants, so that when they heal people or do other miracles, they do this by the power of God.
• Because Jesus and the Holy Spirit are also God, they have this same power.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, the term "power" could also be translated as "ability" or "strength" or "energy" or "ability to do miracles" or "control."
• Possible ways to translate the term "powers" could include "powerful beings" or "controlling spirits" or "those who control others."
• An expression like "save us from the power of our enemies" could be translated as "save us from being oppressed by our enemies" or "rescue us from being controlled by our enemies." In this case, "power" has the meaning of using one's strength to control and oppress others.

(See also: Holy Spirit, Jesus, miracle)

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 01:05
• Colossians 01:11-12
• Genesis 31:29
• Jeremiah 18:21
• Jude 01:25
• Judges 02:18
• Luke 01:17
• Luke 04:14
• Matthew 26:64
• Philippians 03:21
• Psalm 080:02

Word Data:

• Strong's: H410, H1368, H1369, H1370, H2220, H2393, H2428, H2632, H3027, H3201, H3581, H4475, H4910, H5794, H5797, H5807, H6109, H6184, H7980, H7981, H7983, H7989, H8592, H8633, G1410, G1411, G1415, G1743, G1754, G1832, G1849, G1850, G2159, G2478, G2479, G2480, G2904, G3168

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ability, able, am ... able, are ... able, are ... possible, be ... unable, be able, be mastered, can, cannot, capable, could, could not, impossible, incapable, is ... able, may ... be able, miraculous powers, possible, power, powerful, powerfully, powers, was ... able, were ... able, will ... be able, won

praise

Related Ideas:

praiseworthy

Definition:

To praise someone is to express admiration and honor for that person. Something that is praiseworthy is good and deserves to be praised.

• People praise God because of how great he is and because of all the amazing things he has done as the Creator and Savior of the world.
• Praise for God often includes being thankful for what he has done.
• Music and singing is often used as a way to praise God.
• Praising God is part of what it means to worship him.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term to "praise" could also be translated as to "speak well of" or to "highly honor with words" or to "say good things about."
• The noun "praise" could be translated as "spoken honor" or "speech that honors" or "speaking good things about."

(See also: worship)

Bible References:

• 2 Corinthians 01:03
• Acts 02:47
• Acts 13:48
• Daniel 03:28
• Ephesians 01:03
• Genesis 49:8
• James 03:9-10
• John 05:41-42
• Luke 01:46
• Luke 01:64-66
• Luke 19:37-38
• Matthew 11:25-27
• Matthew 15:29-31

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1288, H1289, H1319, H1984, H2142, H2167, H7121, H8416, G1392, G1843, G2127, G2128, G2129, G2980, G3170, G3853, G5485, G5567

Forms Found in the English ULB:

praise, praised, praises, praiseworthy, praising, sing praise, sing praises

pray

Related Ideas:

prayer

Definition:

The terms "pray" and "prayer" refer to talking with God. These terms are used to refer to people trying to talk to a false god.

• People can pray silently, talking to God with their thoughts, or they can pray aloud, speaking to God with their voice. Sometimes prayers are written down, such as when David wrote his prayers in the Book of Psalms.
• Prayer can include asking God for mercy, for help with a problem, and for wisdom in making decisions.
• Often people ask God to heal people who are sick or who need his help in other ways.
• People also thank and praise God when they are praying to him.
• Praying includes confessing our sins to God and asking him to forgive us.
• Talking to God is sometimes called "communing" with him as our spirit communicates with his spirit, sharing our emotions and enjoying his presence.
• This term could be translated as "talking to God" or "communicating with God." The translation of this term should be able to include praying that is silent.

(See also: false god, forgive, praise)

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 03:09
• Acts 08:24
• Acts 14:26
• Colossians 04:04
• John 17:09
• Luke 11:1
• Matthew 05:43-45
• Matthew 14:22-24

Word Data:

• Strong's: H577, H1156, H2470, H3908, H6279, H6293, H6419, H6739, H7592, H7879, H8034, H8605, G154, G1162, G1189, G1783, G2065, G2171, G2172, G3870, G4335, G4336

Forms Found in the English ULB:

heard ... prayer, pray, prayed, prayer, prayers, praying, prays, urgently pray

prison

Related Ideas:

custody, dungeon, imprison, imprisonment, prisoner

Definition:

The term "prison" refers to a place where criminals are kept as a punishment for their crimes. A "prisoner" is someone who has been put in the prison.

• The term "prisoners" can also refer in general to people who have been captured by an enemy and kept somewhere against their will.
• The term "imprisoned" means "kept in a prison" or "kept in captivity."
• Many prophets and other servants of God were put in prison even though they had not done anything wrong.
• To "hold someone in custody" is to put him in a prison or other place from which he cannot escape. Sometimes people were held in custody while they waited to be judged in a trial.
• A "dungeon" is an underground prison that is dark and damp.

Translation Suggestions:

• Another word for "prison" is "jail."
• The term "prison" could also be translated as "dungeon" in contexts where the prison is probably underground or beneath the main part of a palace or other building.
• The term "prisoners" can also be translated as "captives." Other ways to translate "imprisoned" could be "kept as a prisoner" or "kept in captivity" or "held captive" or "shut up."

(See also: captive)

Bible References:

• Acts 25:04
• Ephesians 04:01
• Luke 12:58
• Luke 22:33-34
• Mark 06:17
• Matthew 05:26
• Matthew 14:03
• Matthew 25:34-36

Word Data:

• Strong's: H612, H613, H615, H616, H631, H953, H1004, H1540, H3608, H3628, H3947, H4115, H4307, H4455, H4525, H5470, H6495, H7617, H7622, H7628, G1198, G1199, G1200, G1201, G1202, G1210, G2252, G3612, G4788, G4869, G5084, G5438, G5439

Forms Found in the English ULB:

custody, dungeon, held ... in custody, hold ... in custody, holding ... in custody, imprison, imprisoned, imprisonment, imprisonments, imprisons, prison, prisoner, prisoners, prisons

profit

Related Ideas:

profitable, unprofitable

Definition:

In general, the terms "profit" and "profitable" refer to gaining something good through doing certain actions or behaviors.

Something is "profitable" to someone if it brings them good things or if it helps them bring about good things for other people.

• More specifically, the term "profit" often refers to money that is gained from doing business. A business is "profitable" if it gains more money than it spends.
• Actions are profitable if they bring about good things for people.
• 2 Timothy 3:16 says that all Scripture is "profitable" for correcting and training people in righteousness. This means that the Bible's teachings are helpful and useful for teaching people to live according to God's will.

The term "unprofitable" means to not be useful.

• It literally means to not profit anything or to not help someone gain anything.
• Something that is unprofitable is not worth doing because it does not give any benefit.
• This could be translated as "useless" or "worthless" or "not useful" or "unworthy" or "not beneficial" or "giving no benefit."

To "take advantage of" someone is to make extra profit from him because he is weak and unable to demand greater return.

(See also: worthy)

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, the term "profit" could also be translated as "benefit" or "help" or "gain."
• The term "profitable" could be translated as "useful" or "beneficial" or "helpful."
• To "profit from" something could be translated as "benefit from" or "gain money from" or "receive help from."
• In the context of a business, "profit" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "money gained" or "surplus of money" or "extra money."

Bible References:

• Job 15:03
• Proverbs 10:16
• Jeremiah 02:08
• Ezekiel 18:12-13
• John 06:63
• Mark 08:36
• Matthew 16:26
• 2 Peter 02:1-3

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1214, H3148, H3276, H3504, H4195, H4768, H5532, H7939, H7965, G147, G512, G890, G1281, G2108, G2585, G2770, G2771, G3408, G3685, G4122, G4297, G4851, G5622, G5623

Forms Found in the English ULB:

profit, profitable, profits, treated ... violently for profit, unprofitable

pure

Related Ideas:

impure, purge, purification, purify, purity, refine

Definition:

To be "pure" means to have no flaw or to have nothing mixed in that is not supposed to be there. To purify something is to cleanse it and remove anything that contaminates or pollutes it.

• In regard to Old Testament laws, "purify" and "purification" refer mainly to the cleansing from things that make an object or a person ritually unclean, such as disease, body fluids, or childbirth.
• The Old Testament also had laws telling people how to be purified from sin, usually by the sacrifice of an animal. This was only temporary and the sacrifices had to be repeated over and over again.
• In the New Testament, to be purified often refers to being cleansed from sin.
• The only way that people can be completely and permanently purified from sin is through repenting and receiving God's forgiveness, through trusting in Jesus and his sacrifice.
• Something that is "impure" is not pure.
• To "refine" is to purify metal. This is done by heating the metal over a fire until it melts and removing what should not be there.
• Someone who has pure motives is somone who only wants to do what is good.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "purify" could be translated as "make pure" or "cleanse" or "cleanse from all contamination" or "get rid of all sin."
• A phrase such as "when the time for their purification was over" could be translated as "when they had purified themselves by waiting the required number of days."
• The phrase "provided purification for sins" could be translated as "provided a way for people to be completely cleansed from their sin."
• Other ways to translate "purification" could include "cleansing" or "spiritual washing" or "becoming ritually clean."
• Other ways to translate "pure motives" or "purity of motives" is "sincere" or "sincerity."

(See also: atonement, clean, spirit)

Bible References:

• 1 Timothy 01:05
• Exodus 31:6-9
• Hebrews 09:13-15
• James 04:08
• Luke 02:22
• Revelation 14:04

Word Data:

• Strong's: H571, H1249, H1305, H2134, H2135, H2141, H2212, H2398, H2403, H2889, H2890, H2891, H2892, H2893, H3795, H2896, H3800, H5079, H5343, H5462, H6337, H6884, H6942, G48, G49, G53, G54, G169, G185, G505, G1103, G1506, G2511, G2512, G2513

Forms Found in the English ULB:

impure, impure thing, impurities, impurity, pure, purer, purge, purification, purified, purifies, purify, purity, refine, refined, refiner, refiner's, refining

rage

Related Ideas:

enrage

Definitions:

Rage is excessive anger what is out of control. When someone rages, it means that person is expressing anger in a destructive way.

• Rage happens when the emotion of anger causes a person to lose self control.
• When controlled by rage, people commit destructive acts and say destructive things.
• When the "nations rage," their to ungodly people disobey God and rebel against him.
• To be "filled with rage" means to have an overwhelming feeling of extreme anger.
• "Senseless rage" is rage that comes from no good reason or that prevents the angry person from thinking clearly.
• To "enrage" someone means to make them extremely angry.
• To "enrage" against someone is to be extremely angry with someone.
• When someone is "enraged" he is extremely angry."

"Rage" can also be used figuratively.

• The term to "rage" can also mean to move powerfully, in descriptions such as a "raging" storm or ocean waves that "rage."

(See also: angry, self-control)

Bible References:

• Acts 04:25
• Daniel 03:13
• Luke 04:28
• Numbers 25:11
• Proverbs 19:03

Word Data:

• Strong's: H398, H1348, H1993, H2121, H2195, H2196, H2197, H2528, H2534, H2734, H2740, H3820, H5590, H5678, H7264, H7265, H7266, H7267, H7857, G454, G1693, G2372, G2830, G3710, G5433

Forms Found in the English ULB:

enrage, enraged, rage, raged, rages, raging, senseless rage

raise

Related Ideas:

arise, rise, risen

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 or make someone or something truly great.

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!"
• A person who suddenly becomes important is said to "arise."

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 06:41
• 2 Samuel 07:12
• Acts 10:40
• Colossians 03:01
• Deuteronomy 13:1-3
• Jeremiah 06:01
• Judges 02:18
• Luke 07:22
• Matthew 20:19

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1804, H2210, H2224, H5375, H5549, H5782, H5927, H5975, H6965, H6966, H7613, G305, G386, G393, G450, G1127, G1326, G1453, G1525, G1817, G1825, G1892, G1999, G4891, G5312

Forms Found in the English ULB:

arise, arisen, arises, raise, raise up, raised, raises, raising, raising up, rise, rise up, risen, rises, rising, rose

receive

Related Ideas:

abstain, 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.
• The word "abstain" means to refuse to take or receive or have something.

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."

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

Bible References:

• 1 John 05:09
• 1 Thessalonians 01:06
• 1 Thessalonians 04:01
• Acts 08:15
• Jeremiah 32:33
• Luke 09:05
• Malachi 03:10-12
• Psalms 049:14-15

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3557, H3925, H3947, H5144, H6901, H6902, H8254, G308, G324, G353, G354, G568, G588, G618, G1183, G1184, G1209, G1523, G1653, G1926, G2865, G2983, G3028, G3335, G3336, G3549, G3858, G3880, G4047, G4327, G4355, G4356, G4687, G5264, G5562

Forms Found in the English ULB:

abstain, receive, receive back, received, received ... in full, receiver, receives, receiving

report

Related Ideas:

account, bring news, give an account, news, rumor

Definition:

The term to "report" means to tell people about something that happened, often giving details about that event. A "report" is what is told, and can be spoken or written.

• "Report" could also be translated as "tell" or "explain" or "tell the details of."
• The expression "Report this to no one" could be translated as, "Don't talk about this with anyone" or "Don't tell anyone about this."
• Ways to translate "a report" could include "an explanation" or "a story" or "a detailed account," depending on the context.
• A "rumor" is a report that no one knows for sure is true.

Bible References:

• Acts 05:22-23
• John 12:38
• Luke 05:15
• Luke 08:34-35
• Matthew 28:15

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1319, H1681, H1696, H1697, H5046, H5608, H7725, H8034, H8052, H8085, H8088, H8435, G189, G191, G312, G518, G987, G1225, G1310, G1334, G1834, G2036, G2163, G3004, G3056, G3140, G3141, G3377

Forms Found in the English ULB:

account, accounts, bring ... report, brought ... news, brought ... report, gave ... a full account, give ... a full account, news, report, reported, reports, rumor, rumors, spread ... about

rest

Related Ideas:

at ease, pause, refresh, relief, restless

Definition:

The term to "rest" literally means to stop working. Usually it means to stop working in order to relax or regain strength. A "rest" is what someone has when he stops working. To "rest secure" is to feel safe. To "rest" an object on something means to "place" or "put" it there. An object that is "resting" somewhere is simply in that place. A boat that "comes to rest" somewhere has "stopped" or "landed" there. The phrase "the rest of" refers to the remainder of something.

• God commanded the Israelites to rest on the seventh day of the week. This day of not working was called the "Sabbath" day.
• To be "at ease" is to feel safe or comfortable.
• To "pause" is to stop doing something for a while.
• To "refresh" someone is to give him rest and whatever else he needs so he can get his strength back.
• "Relief" is the rest a person has when a problem becomes less severe or ends.
• If someone is "restless," he feels anxious or bored and cannot rest.

Translation Suggestions:

• When Jesus said, "I will give you rest," this could also be translated as " I will cause you to stop carrying your burden" or "I will help you be at peace."
• God said, "they will not enter my rest," and this statement could be translated as "they will not experience my blessings of rest" or "they will not experience the peace that comes from trusting in me."
• The term "the rest" could be translated as "those that remain" or "all the others" or "everything that is left."

(See also: remnant, Sabbath)

Bible References:

• 2 Chronicles 06:41
• Genesis 02:03
• Jeremiah 06:16-19
• Matthew 11:29
• Revelation 14:11

Word Data:

• Strong's: H14, H1824, H1826, H2308, H3427, H3498, H3499, H3885, H4494, H4496, H4771, H5117, H5118, H5162, H5183, H5315, H5564, H6314, H6960, H7258, H7280, H7599, H7604, H7605, H7606, H7611, H7663, H7673, H7677, H7901, H7931, H7951, H7961, H8172, H8252, H8300, G372, G373, G425, G1515, G1879, G1954, G2270, G2663, G2664, G2838, G4520

Forms Found in the English ULB:

at ease, be at rest, give ... rest, pause, refresh, refreshed, relief, rest, rest secure, rested, rested secure, resting, resting place, resting places, restless, rests

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 15:13
• 1 Peter 03:21
• Hebrews 11:35
• John 05:28-29
• Luke 20:27
• Luke 20:36
• Matthew 22:23
• Matthew 22:30
• Philippians 03:11

Word Data:

• Strong's: G386, G1454, G1815

Forms Found in the English ULB:

resurrection

reveal

Related Ideas:

revelation

Definition:

The term "reveal" means to cause something to be known. A "revelation" is something that has been made known.

• God has revealed himself through everything he has created and through his communication with people by spoken and written messages.
• God also reveals himself through dreams or visions.
• When Paul said that he received the gospel by "revelation from Jesus Christ," he means that Jesus himself explained the gospel to him.
• In the New Testament book "Revelation," God revealed events that will happen in the end times. He revealed them to the apostle John through visions.

Translation Suggestions:

• Other ways to translate "reveal" could include "make known" or "disclose" or "show clearly."
• Depending on the context, possible ways to translate "revelation" could be "communication from God" or "things that God has revealed" or "teachings about God." It is best to keep the meaning of "reveal" in the translation.
• The phrase "where there is no revelation" could be translated as "when God is not revealing himself to people" or "when God is not speaking to people" or "among people whom God has not communicating."

(See also: dream, vision)

Bible References:

• Daniel 11:1-2
• Ephesians 03:05
• Galatians 01:12
• Lamentations 02:13-14
• Matthew 10:26
• Philippians 03:15
• Revelation 01:01

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1540, H1541, H1540, H5046, H7200, G601, G602, G1213, G1453, G3377, G5318, G5319, G5537

Forms Found in the English ULB:

reveal, revealed, revealing, reveals, revelation, revelations

righteous

Related Ideas:

right, rightly, righteousness, rightful, upright

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" can refer 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.
• "Unrighteousness" can be an abstract noun that refers to words or actions that are unrighteous.

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."

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, sin, unlawful)

Bible References:

• Deuteronomy 19:16
• Job 01:08
• Psalms 037:30
• Psalms 049:14
• Psalms 107:42
• Ecclesiastes 12:10-11
• Isaiah 48:1-2
• Ezekiel 33:13
• Malachi 02:06
• Matthew 06:01
• Acts 03:13-14
• Romans 01:29-31
• 1 Corinthians 06:09
• Galatians 03:07
• Colossians 03:25
• 2 Thessalonians 02:10
• 2 Timothy 03:16
• 1 Peter 03:18-20
• 1 John 01:09
• 1 John 05:16-17

Word Data:

• Strong's: H205, H2555, H3072, H3474, H3476, H3477, H3483, H4334, H4339, H5228, H5229, H5324, H5765, H5766, H5767, H5977, H6662, H6663, H6664, H6665, H6666, H8535, H8537, H8549, H8552, G93, G94, G458, G824, G1341, G1342, G1343, G1344, G1345, G1346, G2118

Forms Found in the English ULB:

acts rightly, do right, does what is right, in the right, made ... appear ... righteous, right treatment, righteous, righteously, righteousness, rightful, that are right, that is right, unrighteous, unrighteously, unrighteousness, upright, uprightly, uprightness, what is ... right, what was right

rod

Related Ideas:

measuring rod

Definition:

The term "rod" refers to a narrow, solid, stick-like tool that was used in several different ways. It was probably at least a meter in length.

• A wooden rod was used by a shepherd to defend the sheep from other animals. It was also thrown toward a wandering sheep to bring it back to the the flock.
• In Psalm 23, King David used the terms "rod" and "staff" as metaphors to refer to God's guidance and discipline for his people.
• A shepherd's rod was also used to count the sheep as they passed under it.
• Another metaphorical expression, "rod of iron," refers to God's punishment for people who rebel against him and do evil things.
• In the Bible, a wooden rod was also referred to as an instrument to discipline children.
• In ancient times, measuring rods made of metal, wood, or stone were used to measure the length of a building or object.

(See also: staff, sheep, shepherd)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 04:21
• 1 Samuel 14:43-44
• Acts 16:23
• Exodus 27:9-10
• Revelation 11:01

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2415, H4294, H4731, H7626, G2563, G4463, G4464

Forms Found in the English ULB:

measuring rod, rod, rods

run

Related Ideas:

flee, flow, move swiftly, runner

Definition:

Literally the term "run" means "move very quickly on foot," usually at a greater speed than can be accomplished by walking. To "run after" or "pursue" someone or something is to move as quickly as possible to try to catch that person or thing. To run away from someone or something is to "flee."

This main meaning of "run" is also used in figurative expressions such as the following:

• To "run in such a way as to win the prize" refers to persevering in doing God's will with the same perseverance as running a race in order to win.
• To "run in the path of your commands" means to gladly and quickly obey God's commands.
• To "run after other gods" means to persist in worshiping other gods.
• "I run to you to hide me" means to quickly turn to God for refuge and safety when faced with difficult things.

The following figurative uses are about non-living things that are said to run.

• Water and other liquids such as tears, blood, sweat, and rivers are said to "run." This could also be translated as, "flow."
• The border or boundary of a country or region is said to "run along" a river or the border of a different country. This could be translated by saying that the country’s border "is next to" the river or other country or by saying that the country "borders" the river or other country."
• Rivers and streams can "run dry," which means that they no longer have water in them. This could be translated as "have dried up" or "have become dry."
• The days of a feast can "run their course," which means they "have passed by" or "are finished" or "are over."

(See also: false god, persevere, refuge, turn)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 06:18
• Galatians 02:02
• Galatians 05:07
• Philippians 02:16
• Proverbs 01:16

Word Data:

• Strong's: H213, H386, H1065, H1272, H1556, H1980, H2100, H2416, H2648, H3001, H3212, H3332, H3381, H3920, H3988, H4422, H4754, H4794, H4944, H5074, H5127, H5140, H5472, H5756, H6437, H6440, H6544, H6805, H7272, H7291, H7310, H7325, H7519, H7751, H8264, H8308, H8444, G413, G1377, G1601, G1530, G1532, G1998, G2701, G3729, G4063, G4370, G4390, G4710, G4890, G4936, G5143, G5240, G5343

Forms Found in the English ULB:

caused ... to flee, fled, flee, fleeing, flees, flow, flows, moving swiftly, ran, run, runner, runners, running, runs

sacrifice

Related Ideas:

offering

Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "sacrifice" and "offering" refer to special gifts given to God as an act of worshiping him. People also offered sacrifices to false gods.

• The word "offering" generally refers to anything that is offered or given. The term "sacrifice" refers to something that is given or done at great cost to the giver.
• Offerings to God were specific things that he commanded the Israelites to give in order to express devotion and obedience to him.
• The names of the different offerings, such as "burnt offering" and "peace offering," indicated what kind of offering was being given.
• Sacrifices to God often involved the killing of an animal.
• Only the sacrifice of Jesus, God's perfect, sinless Son, can completely cleanse people from sin animal sacrifices could never do that.
• The figurative expression "offer yourselves as a living sacrifice" means, "live your life in complete obedience to God, giving up everything in order to serve him."

Translation Suggestions

• The term "offering" could also be translated as "a gift to God" or "something given to God" or "something valuable that is presented to God."
• Depending on the context, the term "sacrifice" could also be translated as "something valuable given in worship" or "a special animal killed and presented to God."
• The action to "sacrifice" could be translated as to "give up something valuable" or to "kill an animal and give it to God."
• Another way to translate "present yourself as a living sacrifice" could be "as you live your life, offer yourself to God as completely as an animal is offered on an altar."

(See also: altar, burnt offering, drink offering, false god, fellowship offering, freewill offering peace offering, priest, sin offering, worship)

Bible References:

• 2 Timothy 04:06
• Acts 07:42
• Acts 21:25
• Genesis 04:3-5
• James 02:21-24
• Mark 01:43-44
• Mark 14:12
• Matthew 05:23

Word Data:

• Strong's: H801, H817, H819, H1685, H1890, H1974, H2076, H2077, H2281, H2282, H2398, H2401, H2402, H2403, H2409, H3632, H4394, H4503, H4504, H4635, H5066, H5068, H5071, H5257, H5258, H5261, H5262, H5927, H5928, H5930, H6453, H6944, H6999, H7133, H7311, H8002, H8426, H8573, H8641, G266, G334, G1049, G1435, G1494, G2378, G2380, G3646, G4376, G5485

Forms Found in the English ULB:

burn ... sacrifices, offer, offered, offering, offerings, sacrifice, sacrificed, sacrifices, sacrificing

seek

Related Ideas:

go to find, look out for, search, try

Definition:

The term "seek" means to look for something or someone. The past tense is "sought." It can also mean "try hard" or "make an effort" to do something.

• To "seek" or "look for" an opportunity to do something can mean to "try to find a time" to do it.
• To "seek Yahweh" means to "spend time and energy getting to know Yahweh and learning to obey him."
• To "seek protection" means to "try to find a person or place that will protect you from danger."
• To "seek justice" means to "make an effort to see that people are treated justly or fairly."
• To "seek the truth" means to "make an effort to find out what the truth is."
• To "search out" something is to look for the truth about that thing.
• To "seek favor" means to "try to get favor" or to "do things to cause someone to help you."
• To "charge someone for something" is to hold that person responsible for the damage that person has done.

(See also: just, true)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 10:14
• Acts 17:26-27
• Hebrews 11:06
• Luke 11:09
• Psalms 027:08

Word Data:

• Strong's: H579, H1156, H1239, H1243, H1245, H1556, H1875, H2470, H2603, H2658, H2664, H2713, H3289, H7125, H7592, H7760, H7836, H8446, G327, G1567, G1934, G2045, G2052, G2212, G3987, G4648

Forms Found in the English ULB:

diligently seek, go to find, look out for, looked for, looking for, looks for, search, search carefully, search for, searched, searched for, searched out, searches ... out, searches for, searching, searching for, seek, seek ... out, seeking, seeks, sought, tried, try, trying

send

Definition:

To "send" is to cause someone or something to go somewhere. To "send out" someone is to tell that person to go on an errand or a mission.

• Often a person who is "sent out" has been appointed to do a specific task.
• Phrases like "send rain" or "send disaster" mean to "cause rain to come" or "cause a disaster to come." This type of expression is usually used in reference to God causing these things to happen.
• The term "send" is also used in expressions such as "send word" or "send a message," which means to give someone a message to tell someone else.
• To "send" someone "with" something can mean to "give" that thing "to" someone else, usually moving it some distance in order for the person to receive it.
• To "send someone on his way" or "help someone on his way" is to give him what he needs for his journey.
• Jesus frequently used the phrase "the one who sent me" to refer to God the Father, who "sent" him to earth to redeem and save people. This could also be translated as "the one who commissioned me."

(See also: appoint, redeem)

Bible References:

• Acts 07:33-34
• Acts 08:14-17
• John 20:21-23
• Matthew 09:37-38
• Matthew 10:05
• Matthew 10:40
• Matthew 21:1-3

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1540, H1980, H2199, H2904, H3318, H3474, H4916, H4917, H5130, H5375, H5414, H5674, H6963, H7368, H7964, H7971, H7972, H7993, H8421, H8446, G782, G375, G630, G649, G652, G1026, G1544, G1599, G1821, G3333, G3343, G3936, G3992, G4311, G4341, G4369, G4842, G4882

Forms Found in the English ULB:

send, send ... away, send ... on ... way, send out, sending, sending out, sends, sends out, sent, sent ... away, sent out

servant

Related Ideas:

assistant, attendant, hired worker, maidservant, office, serve, service

Definition:

The word "servant" refers to a person who works for another person, either by choice or by force. Some servants were slaves, and the surrounding text usually makes it clear whether or not a particular servant was a slave. 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 became slaves to a person they owed money to in order to pay off their debt to that person.
• 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.
• In the Old Testament, God's prophets and other people who worshiped God were often referred to as his "servants."
• In the New Testament, people who obeyed God through faith in Christ were often called his "servants."
• 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.

The word "serve" means to do things to help other people. It can also mean to "worship."

• 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."
• To "serve God" can be translated as to "worship and obey God" or to "do the work that God has commanded."
• 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.

The word "service" refers to the work that a servant does. It may also refer to worship.

The word "office" refers to the position or job that a servant has.

(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
• 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

Word Data:

• Strong's: H327, H519, H519, H4931, H5288, H5647, H5649, H5650, H5656, H5657, H5659, H5673, H6402, H6635, H7916, H8120, H8198, H8278, H8334, H8335, G1199, G1247, G1248, G1249, G1397, G1398, G1401, G1402, G2038, G2322, G2324, G2615, G2999, G3000, G3008, G3009, G3010, G3011, G3407, G3411, G3610, G3814, G3816, G4342, G5256, G5257

Forms Found in the English ULB:

female servant, female servants, hired servant, hired servants, hired worker, maidservants, male servant, male servants, office, offices, one who serves, servant, servant girl, servant girls, servant's, servants, servants', serve, served, serves, service, services, serving

shame

Related Ideas:

ashamed, shameful, shameless, 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 cause someone to feel ashamed. It might be expose their sin or by defeating them.
• 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.
• A person that is "unashamed" does not feel shame.
• A person is "shameless" if he does something shameful but does not feel ashamed.
• A "shameless act" is something a person should feel ashamed about doing, but he does not feel ashamed.

Sometimes the word "shame" is used figuratively to refer to a person's nakedness or private parts.

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

Bible References:

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

Word Data:

• Strong's: H937, H954, H955, H1317, H1322, H5949, H2616, H2659, H2781, H3001, H3637, H3639, H3640, H7022, H7036, H8103, G149, G152, G153, G422, G808, G818, G819, G821, G1788, G1791, G1870, G2617, G3681, G3856, G5195

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ashamed, make ... ashamed, put ... to shame, shame, shamed, shameful, shamefully, shameless, shamelessly, shames, unashamed

sign

Related Ideas:

demonstration, evidence, mark, marker, omen, proof, remind, reminder, signal

Definition:

A sign is an object, event, or action that communicates a special meaning.

• "Reminders" are signs that "remind" people by helping them remember something, often something that was promised:

• The rainbows God creates in the sky are signs to remind people that he has promised he will never again destroy all life with a worldwide flood.

• God commanded the Israelites to circumcise their sons as a sign of his covenant with them.

• Signs can reveal or point to something:

• An angel gave shepherds a sign that would help them know which baby in Bethlehem was the newborn Messiah.

• Judas kissed Jesus as a sign to the religious leaders that Jesus was the one they should arrest.

• Signs can prove that something is true:

• The miracles performed by the prophets and apostles were signs that proved they were speaking God's message.

• The miracles that Jesus performed were signs that proved he was truly the Messiah.

• A "signal flag" is a flag that a king would raise as a sign so that people could see it and come to him or go into battle.

• An "omen" is an event that people think tells that something else will happen in the future.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on its context, "sign" could also be translated as "signal" or "symbol" or "mark" or "evidence" or "proof" or "gesture."
• To "make signs with the hands" could also be translated as "motion with the hands" or "gesture with the hands" or "make gestures."
• In some languages, there may be one word for a "sign" that proves something and a different word for a "sign" that is a miracle.

(See also: miracle, apostle, Christ, covenant, circumcise)

Bible References:

• Acts 02:18-19
• Exodus 04:8-9
• Exodus 31:12-15
• Genesis 01:14
• Genesis 09:12
• John 02:18
• Luke 02:12
• Mark 08:12
• Psalms 089:5-6

Word Data:

• Strong's: H226, H852, H926, H2368, H2865, H3824, H4150, H4159, H4864, H5162, H5251, H5824, H5953, H6161, H6725, H6734, H7560, H7725, H8074, H8540, G364, G1271, G1382, G1730, G1732, G1770, G1839, G2298, G4102, G4592, G4953, G4973, G5059, H5172, G5280, G5480, G5590

Forms Found in the English ULB:

demonstration, evidence, mark, marker, omen, omens, proof, remind, reminded, reminder, reminders, reminding, reminds, sign, signal, signal flag, signs

sin

Related Ideas:

sinful, sinner

Definition:

The term "sin" refers to actions, thoughts, and words that are against God's will and laws. Sin can also refer to not doing something that God wants us to do.

• Sin includes anything we do that does not obey or please God, even things that other people don't know about.
• Thoughts and actions that disobey God's will are called "sinful."
• Because Adam sinned, all human beings are born with a "sinful nature," a nature that that controls them and causes them to sin.
• A "sinner" is someone who sins, so every human being is a sinner.
• Sometimes the word "sinners" was used by religious people like the Pharisees to refer to people who didn't keep the law as well as the Pharisees thought they should.
• The term "sinner" was also used for people who were considered to be worse sinners than other people. For example, this label was given to tax collectors and prostitutes.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "sin" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "disobedience to God" or "going against God's will" or "evil behavior and thoughts" or "wrongdoing."
• To "sin" could also be translated as to "disobey God" or to "do wrong."
• Depending on the context "sinful" could be translated as "full of wrongdoing" or "wicked" or "immoral" or "evil" or "rebelling against God."
• Depending on the context the term "sinner" could be translated with a word or phrase that means, "person who sins" or "person who does wrong things" or "person who disobeys God" or "person who disobeys the law."
• The term "sinners" could be translated by a word or phrase that means "very sinful people" or "people considered to be very sinful" or "immoral people."
• Ways to translate "tax collectors and sinners" could include "people who collect money for the government, and other very sinful people" or "very sinful people, including (even) tax collectors."
• In expressions like "slaves to sin" or "ruled by sin," the term "sin" could be translated as "disobedience" or "evil desires and actions."
• Make sure the translation of this term can include sinful behavior and thoughts, even those that other people don't see or know about.
• The term "sin" should be general, and different from the terms for "wickedness" and "evil."

(See also: disobey, evil, flesh, tax collector)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 09:1-3
• 1 John 01:10
• 1 John 02:02
• 2 Samuel 07:12-14
• Acts 03:19
• Daniel 09:24
• Genesis 04:07
• Hebrews 12:02
• Isaiah 53:11
• Jeremiah 18:23
• Leviticus 04:14
• Luke 15:18
• Matthew 12:31
• Romans 06:23
• Romans 08:04

Word Data:

• Strong's: H817, H819, H2398, H2399, H2400, H2401, H2402, H2403, H2408, H2409, H6588, H7683, H7686, G93, G264, G265, G266, G268, G361, G3781, G3900, G4258

Forms Found in the English ULB:

sin, sinful, sinned, sinner, sinners, sinning, sins

son

Definition:

The male offspring of a man and a woman is called their "son" for his entire life. He is also called a son of that man and a son of that woman. An "adopted son" is a male who has been legally placed into the position of being a son.

• "Son" was often used figuratively in the Bible to refer to any male descendant, such as a grandson or great-grandson.
• The term "son" can also be used as a polite form of address to a boy or man who is younger than the speaker.
• Sometimes "sons of God" was used in the New Testament to refer to believers in Christ.
• God called Israel his "firstborn son." This refers to God's choosing of the nation of Israel to be his special people. It is through them that God's message of redemption and salvation came, with the result that many other people have become his spiritual children.
• The phrase "son of" often has the figurative meaning "person having the characteristics of." Examples of this include "sons of the light," "sons of disobedience," "a son of peace," and "sons of thunder."
• The phrase "son of" is also used to tell who a person's father is. This phrase is used in genealogies and many other places.
• Using "son of" to give the name of the father frequently helps distinguish people who have the same name. For example, "Azariah son of Zadok" and "Azariah son of Nathan" in 1 Kings 4, and "Azariah son of Amaziah" in 2 Kings 15 are three different men.

Translation Suggestions:

• In most occurrences of this term, it is best to translate "son" by the literal term in the language that is used to refer to a son.
• When translating the term "Son of God," the project language's common term for "son" should be used.
• When used to refer to a descendant rather than a direct son, the term "descendant" could be used, as in referring to Jesus as the "descendant of David" or in genealogies where sometimes "son" referred to a male descendant who was not an actual son.
• Sometimes "sons" can be translated as "children," when both males and females are being referred to. For example, "sons of God" could be translated as "children of God" since this expression also includes girls and women.
• The figurative expression "son of" could also be translated as "someone who has the characteristics of" or "someone who is like" or "someone who has" or "someone who acts like."

(See also: Azariah, descendant, ancestor, firstborn, Son of God, sons of God)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 18:15
• 1 Kings 13:02
• 1 Thessalonians 05:05
• Galatians 04:07
• Hosea 11:01
• Isaiah 09:06
• Matthew 03:17
• Matthew 05:09
• Matthew 08:12
• Nehemiah 10:28

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1060, H1121, H1123, H1247, H1248, H3173, H3206, H3211, H5209, H5220, G3816, G5043, G5207

Forms Found in the English ULB:

son, son's, sons

spirit

Related Ideas:

ghost, spiritual

Definition:

The term "spirit" refers to the non-physical part of people which cannot be seen. When a person dies, his spirit leaves his body. "Spirit" can also refer to an attitude or emotional state.

• The term "spirit" can refer to a being that does not have a physical body, especially an evil spirit.
• A person's spirit is the part of him that can know God and believe in him.
• In general, the term "spiritual" describes anything in the non-physical world.
• In the Bible, it especially refers to anything that relates to God, specifically to the Holy Spirit.
• For example, "spiritual food" refers to God's teachings, which give nourishment to a person's spirit, and "spiritual wisdom" refers to the knowledge and righteous behavior that come from the power of the Holy Spirit.
• God is a spirit and he created other spirit beings, who do not have physical bodies.
• Angels are spirit beings, including those who rebelled against God and became evil spirits.
• The term "spirit of" can also mean "having the characteristics of," such as in "spirit of wisdom" or "in the spirit of Elijah."
• Examples of "spirit" as an attitude or emotion would include "spirit of fear" and "spirit of jealousy."

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, some ways to translate "spirit" might include "non-physical being" or "inside part" or "inner being."
• In some contexts, the term "spirit" could be translated as "evil spirit" or "evil spirit being."
• Sometimes the term "spirit" is used to express the feelings of a person, as in "my spirit was grieved in my inmost being." This could also be translated as "I felt grieved in my spirit" or "I felt deeply grieved."
• The phrase "spirit of" could be translated as "character of" or "influence of" or "attitude of" or "thinking (that is) characterized by."
• Depending on the context, "spiritual" could be translated as "non-physical" or "from the Holy Spirit" or "God's" or "part of the non-physical world."
• The figurative expression "spiritual milk" could also be translated as "basic teachings from God" or "God's teachings that nourish the spirit (like milk does)."
• The phrase "spiritual maturity" could be translated as "godly behavior that shows obedience to the Holy Spirit."
• The term "spiritual gift" could be translated as "special ability that the Holy Spirit gives

(See also: angel, demon, Holy Spirit, soul, divination)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 05:05
• 1 John 04:03
• 1 Thessalonians 05:23
• Acts 05:09
• Colossians 01:09
• Ephesians 04:23
• Genesis 07:21-22
• Isaiah 04:04
• Mark 01:23-26
• Matthew 26:41
• Philippians 01:27

Word Data:

• Strong's: H178, H5397, H7307, H7308, G4151, G4152, G4153, G4861, G5326, G5427

Forms Found in the English ULB:

ghost, spirit, spirits, spiritual, spiritually

strength

Related Ideas:

strengthen, strong, stronger, strongest

Definitions:

The term "strength" refers to physical, emotional, or spiritual power. To "strengthen" someone or something means to make that person or object stronger.

• "Strength" can also refer to the power to withstand some kind of opposing force.
• A person has "strength of will" if he is able to avoid sinning when tempted.
• One writer of the Psalms called Yahweh his "strength" because God helped him to be strong.
• If a physical structure like a wall or building is being "strengthened," people are rebuilding the structure, reinforcing it with more stones or brick so that it can withstand an attack.

Translation Suggestions

• In general, the term "strengthen" can be translated as "cause to be strong" or "make more powerful."

• In a spiritual sense, the phrase "strengthen your brothers" could also be translated as "encourage your brothers" or "help your brothers to persevere."

• The following examples show the meaning of these terms in longer expressions and how they can be translated.

• "puts strength on me like a belt" means "causes me to be completely strong, like a belt that completely surrounds my waist."

• "in quietness and trust will be your strength" means "acting calmly and trusting in God will make you spiritually strong."

• "will renew their strength" means "will become stronger again."

• "by my strength and by my wisdom I acted" means "I have done all this because I am so strong and wise."

• "strengthen the wall" means "reinforce the wall" or "rebuild the wall."

• "I will strengthen you" means "I will cause you to be strong"

• "in Yahweh alone are salvation and strength" means "Yahweh is the only one who saves us and strengthens us."

• "the rock of your strength" means "the faithful one who makes you strong"

• "with the saving strength of his right hand" means "he strongly rescues you from trouble like someone who holds you safely with his strong hand."

• "of little strength" means "not very strong" or "weak."

• "with all my strength" means "using my best efforts" or "strongly and completely."

(See also: faithful, persevere, right hand, save)

Bible References:

• 2 Kings 18:19-21
• 2 Peter 02:11
• Luke 10:27
• Psalm 021:01

Word Data:

• Strong's: H193, H202, H353, H360, H386, H410, H553, H556, H1368, H1369, H1396, H2220, H2388, H2389, H2391, H2392, H2393, H2428, H3027, H3028, H3559, H3581, H3811, H3955, H4392, H4581, H5326, H5331, H5582, H5794, H5797, H5807, H5810, H5934, H5975, H6099, H6106, H6109, H6697, H6965, H7292, H7307, H8003, H8443, H8623, H8624, H8631, H8632, H8633, G461, G950, G1411, G1412, G1415, G1743, G1765, G1840, G1991, G2159, G2478, G2479, G2480, G2901, G2904, G3619, G4599, G4732, G4733, G4741

Forms Found in the English ULB:

become strong, made ... strong, made ... stronger, make ... strong, makes ... strong, strength, strengthen, strengthened, strengthening, strengthens, strong, stronger, strongest

strife

Related Ideas:

argue, argument, conflict, contention, dispute, quarrel

Definition:

The term "strife" refers to physical or emotional conflict between people.

• A person who causes strife does things that result in strong disagreements between people and in hurt feelings.
• Sometimes the use of the word "strife" implies that strong emotions are involved, such as anger or bitterness.
• Other ways to translate "strife" could include "argument" or "contention" or "disagreement" or "dispute" or "conflict."

(See also: angry)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 03:3-5
• Habakkuk 01:03
• Philippians 01:17
• Proverbs 17:01
• Psalms 055:8-9
• Romans 13:13

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1777, H1779, H4066, H4090, H4683, H4808, H6635, H7379, H7701, G485, G1252, G2052, G3055, G3163, G3164, G5379

Forms Found in the English ULB:

arguing, argument, conflict, conflicts, contention, dispute, disputes, quarrel, quarreling, quarrels, strife

subject

Related Ideas:

force to become slaves, subdue, subject, subjection

Definitions:

A person is the "subject" of another person if the second person rules over the first. To "be subject to" is to "obey" or to "submit to the authority of."

• The phrase "put in subjection to" refers to causing people to be under the authority of a leader or ruler.
• To "subject someone to something" means to cause that person to experience something negative, such as punishment.
• Sometimes the term "subject" is used to refer to being the topic or focus of something, such as in, "you will be the subject of ridicule."
• The phrase "be subject to" means the same as "be submissive to" or "submit to."

(See also: submit)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 02:14-16
• 1 Kings 04:06
• 1 Peter 02:18-20
• Hebrews 02:05
• Proverbs 12:23-24

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1697, H3533, H3665, H4522, H5647, H5927, H8214, G350, G1396, G1777, G4029, G5293

Forms Found in the English ULB:

are subjected, be subject to, be subjected, forced to become slaves, in subjection to, not subjected, subdue, subdued, subject, subject to, subjected, subjection, subjects, was subjected, were subjected

suffer

Related Ideas:

misery

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.
• 'Misery' is what a person feels when they suffer.

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 01:08
• Acts 07:11-13
• Isaiah 53:11
• Jeremiah 06:6-8
• Matthew 16:21
• Psalms 022:24
• Revelation 01:09
• Romans 05:3-5

Word Data:

• Strong's: H816, H943, H1741, H1934, H4531, G4912, H5142, H5375, H5999, H6001, H6031, H6040, H6041, H6090, H6770, H6869, H6887, H7489, H7661, G91, G941, G971, G2210, G2346, G2347, G2552, G2553, G2561, G3804, G3958, G4310, G4778, G4777, G4841, G5004

Forms Found in the English ULB:

miseries, suffer, suffered, suffering, sufferings, suffers

tent

Related Ideas:

camp, encamp, tentmaker

Definition:

A tent is a portable shelter made of sturdy fabric that is draped over a structure of poles and attached to them.

• Tents can be small, with just enough space for a few people to sleep in, or they can be very large, with space for an entire family to sleep, cook, and live in.
• For many people, tents are used as permanent dwelling places. For example, during most of the time that Abraham's family lived in the land of Canaan, they dwelled in large tents constucted from sturdy cloth made of goat hair.
• The Israelites also lived in tents during their forty-year wanderings through the desert of Sinai.
• The tabernacle building was a kind of very large tent, with thick walls made of cloth curtains.
• When the apostle Paul traveled to different cities to share the gospel, he supported himself by making tents.
• The term "tents" is sometimes used figuratively to refer generally to where people live. This could also be translated as "homes" or "dwellings" or "houses" or even "bodies."
• To "camp" is to sleep in tents or other temporary shelters.
• To "encamp" is for an army to set up camp near a place they will attack.

(See also: Abraham, Canaan, curtain, Paul, Sinai, tabernacle, tent of meeting)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 05:10
• Daniel 11:45
• Exodus 16:18
• Genesis 12:09

Word Data:

• Strong's: H167, H168, H2918, H3407, H4908, H6898, G3925, G4633, G4636

Forms Found in the English ULB:

camp, camped, camping, camps, encamp, encamped, encampments, encamps, tent, tentmakers, tents

time

Definitions:

In the Bible the term "time" was often used to refer to a specific season or period of time when certain events took place. It has a meaning similar to "age" or "epoch" or "season."

• In both Daniel and Revelation speak of a "time" of great trouble or tribulation that will come upon the earth.
• In the phrase "time, times, and half a time" the term "time" means "year." This phrase refers to a three-and-a-half-year period of time during the great tribulation at the end of this present age.
• "Time" can mean "occasion" in a phrase like "third time." The phrase "many times" can mean "on many occasions."
• To be "on time" means to do something when expected or needed, not late.
• Depending on the context, the term "time" could be translated as, "season" or "time period" or "moment" or "event" or "occurrence."

(See also: age, tribulation)

Bible References:

• Acts 01:07
• Daniel 12:1-2
• Mark 11:11
• Matthew 08:29
• Psalms 068:28-29
• Revelation 14:15

Word Data:

• Strong's: H116, H227, H1697, H1755, H2165, H2166, H2233, H2465, H3027, H3117, H3118, H3119, H3259, H3427, H4150, H4279, H4489, H4557, H4592, H5331, H5703, H5732, H5750, H5769, H6235, H6256, H6440, H6471, H6924, H7105, H7138, H7223, H7272, H7637, H7651, H7655, H7659, H7674, H8027, H8032, H8138, H8145, H8160, H8462, H8543, G744, G530, G1074, G1208, G1441, G1597, G1626, G2034, G2119, G2121, G2250, G2540, G3461, G3568, G3764, G3819, G3999, G4181, G4183, G4218, G4287, G4340, G4455, G5151, G5305, G5550, G5551, G5610

Forms Found in the English ULB:

time, times

tongue

Related Ideas:

language

Definition:

There are several figurative meanings of "tongue" in the Bible.

• In the Bible, the most common figurative meaning for this term is "language" or "speech."
• Sometimes "tongue" may refer to a human language spoken by a certain people group.
• Other times it refers to a supernatural language that the Holy Spirit gives believers in Christ as one of the "gifts of the Spirit."
• The expression "tongues" of fire refers to "flames" of fire.
• In the expression "my tongue rejoices," the term "tongue" refers to the whole person.
• The phrase "lying tongue" refers to a person's voice or speech. (See: metonymy)

Translation Suggestions

• Depending on the context, the term "tongue" can be translated by "language" or "spiritual language." If it is not clear which one it is referring to, it is better to translate it as "language."
• When referring to fire, this term could be translated as "flames."
• The expression "my tongue rejoices" could be translated as "I rejoice and praise God" or "I am joyfully praising God."
• The phrase, "tongue that lies" could be translated as "person who tell lies" or "people who lie."
• Phrases such as "with their tongues" could be translated as "with what they say" or "by their words."

(See also: gift, Holy Spirit, joy, praise, rejoice, spirit)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 12:10
• 1 John 03:18
• 2 Samuel 23:02
• Acts 02:26
• Ezekiel 36:03
• Philippians 02:11

Word Data:

• Strong's: H3956, G1100, G1258, G2084, G5456

Forms Found in the English ULB:

language, languages, tongue, tongues

tribe

Related Ideas:

tribal

Definition:

A tribe is a group of people who are descended from a common ancestor.

• People from the same tribe usually also share a common language and culture.
• In the Old Testament, God divided the people of Israel into twelve tribes. Each tribe was descended from a son or grandson of Jacob.
• A tribe is smaller than a nation, but larger than a clan.

(See also: clan, nation, people group, twelve tribes of Israel)

Bible References:

• 1 Samuel 10:19
• 2 Kings 17:16-18
• Genesis 25:16
• Genesis 49:17
• Luke 02:36-38

Word Data:

• Strong's: H523, H4294, H4940, H7625, H7626, G1429, G5443

Forms Found in the English ULB:

tribal, tribe, tribes

trouble

Related Ideas:

troublesome

Definition:

A "trouble" is an experience in life that is very difficult and distressing. To "trouble" someone means to "bother" that person or to cause him distress. Something that is "troubling" causes people to feel distressed. Someone who is troublesome causes problems. To be "troubled" means to feel upset or anxious or distressed about something.

A "tumult" is a group of people making much noise because they are troubled or unhappy.

• Troubles can be physical, emotional, or spiritual things that hurt a person.
• In the Bible, often troubles are times of testing that God uses to help believers mature and grow in their faith.
• The Old Testament use of "trouble" also referred to judgment that came on people groups who were immoral and rejected God.

Translation Suggestions

• The term "trouble" or "troubles" could also be translated as "danger" or "painful things that happen" or "persecution" or "difficult experiences" or "distress."
• The term "troubled" could be translated with a word or phrase that means "undergoing distress" or "feeling terrible distress" or "worried" or "anxious" or "distressed" or "terrified" or "disturbed."
• "Don't trouble her" could also be translated as "don't bother her" or "don't criticize her."
• The phrase "day of trouble" or "times of trouble" could also be translated as "when you experience distress" or " when difficult things happen to you" or "when God causes distressing things to happen."
• Ways to translate "make trouble" or "bring trouble" could include "cause distressing things to happen" or "cause difficulties" or "make them experience very difficult things."

(See also: afflict, persecute)

Bible References:

• 1 Kings 18:18-19
• 2 Chronicles 25:19
• Luke 24:38
• Matthew 24:06
• Matthew 26:36-38

Word Data:

• Strong's: H205, H926, H927, H1204, H1607, H1644, H1672, H2196, H5916, H5999, H6031, H6040, H6087, H6470, H6696, H6862, H6869, H6887, H7264, H7267, H7451, H7489, H8513, G318, G387, G1613, G1776, G2346, G2347, G2350, G2360, G2873, G2906, G3636, G3926, G3986, G4423, G4660, G5015, G5182

Forms Found in the English ULB:

trouble, troubled, troubles, troublesome, troubling

true

Related Ideas:

certain, certainly, certainty, indeed, real, sure, surely, truly, truth, truthful, truthfulness, 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.
• The word "truly" is used to emphasize what the speaker is saying. "Truly" is sometimes translated as "surely" or "certainly."
• 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.
• The word "certainty" refers to a truth about which one can be certain that it is true.

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."

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

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 05:6-8
• 1 John 01:5-7
• 1 John 02:08
• 3 John 01:08
• Acts 26:24-26
• Colossians 01:06
• Genesis 47:29-31
• James 01:18
• James 03:14
• James 05:19
• Jeremiah 04:02
• John 01:9
• John 01:16-18
• John 01:51
• John 03:31-33
• Joshua 07:19-21
• Lamentations 05:19-22
• Matthew 08:10
• Matthew 12:17
• Psalm 026:1-3
• Revelation 01:19-20
• Revelation 15:3-4

Word Data:

• Strong's: H530, H543, H551, H571, H3330, H5229, H6664, H6965, H7187, H7189, G225, G226, G227, G228, G230, G281, G803, G804, G1103, G3483, G4103, G4137, G5198, G5199

Forms Found in the English ULB:

certainly, certainty, for certain, indeed, real, sure, surely, true, truly, truth, truthful, truthfulness, truths

understand

Related Ideas:

argument, craftiness, insight, intelligent, realize, unintentionally, without 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.
• A person who is "without understanding" does not understand.
• 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."
• "Arguments" are statements that one person makes to share his understanding with another person and to convince that other person to understand something the same way.
• "Craftiness" is understanding used for evil.
• An "intelligent" person thinks clearly and learns quickly.
• To do something "unintentionally" is to do it without knowing or by accident or without intending to do it.

(See also: believe, know, wise)

Bible References:

• Job 34:16-17
• Luke 02:47
• Luke 08:10
• Matthew 13:12
• Matthew 13:14
• Proverbs 03:05

Word Data:

• Strong's: H995, H998, H999, H1847, H2940, H3045, H3820, H3823, H3824, H4486, H7200, H7919, H7922, H7924, H8085, H8394, G50, G144, G145, G191, G801, G1097, G1108, G1271, G1380, G1492, G1921, G1922, G1987, G1990, G2638, G2657, G3539, G3563, G4894, G4907, G4908, G4920, G5424, G5428, G5429

Forms Found in the English ULB:

arguments, craftiness, gain understanding, gives ... insight, insight, intelligent, realize, realized, understand, understanding, understands, understood, unintentionally, without understanding

vain

Related Ideas:

for no reason, for nothing, futile, futility, meaningless, of no value, useless, vanity

Definition:

The term "vain" describes things that are useless or have no purpose. Vain things are worthless.

• The term "vanity" refers to worthlessness. It can also refer to pride or arrogance.
• In the Old Testament, idols are described as vain things that cannot deliver or save. They are worthless and have no use or purpose.
• If something was done "in vain," it means that there was no good result from it. The effort or action did not accomplish anything. It was futile.
• To "believe in vain" means to believe in something that is not true and that gives false hope.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, the term "vain" could be translated as "empty" or "useless" or "futile" or "worthless" or "meaningless" or "of no value."
• The phrase "in vain" could be translated as "without result" or "with no result" or "for no reason" or "with no purpose."
• The term "vanity" could be translated as "pride" or "nothing worthwhile" or "hopelessness."

(See also: false god, worthy)

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 15:1-2
• 1 Samuel 25:21-22
• 2 Peter 02:18
• Isaiah 45:19
• Jeremiah 02:29-31
• Matthew 15:09

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1891, H1892, H2600, H7307, H7385, H7387, H7723, H8193, H8267, H8414, G255, G512, G692, G889, G945, G1500, G2756, G2757, G2758, G2761, G3151, G3152, G3153, G3155

Forms Found in the English ULB:

for no reason, for nothing, futile, futility, meaningless, of no value, useless, uselessly, vain, vain plans, vanity, without meaning

walk

Definition:

The term "walk" is often used in a figurative sense to mean "live."

• "Enoch walked with God" means that Enoch lived in a close relationship with God.
• To "walk by the Spirit" means to be guided by the Holy Spirit so that we do things that please and honor God.
• To "walk in" God's commands or God's ways means to "live in obedience to" his commands, that is, to "obey his commands" or "do his will."
• When God says he will "walk among" his people, it means that he is living among them or closely interacting with them.
• To "walk contrary to" means to live or behave in a way that is against something or someone.
• To "walk after" means to seek or pursue someone or something. It can also mean to act in the same way as someone else.

Translation Suggestions:

• It is best to translate "walk" literally, as long as the correct meaning will be understood.
• Otherwise, figurative uses of "walk" could also be translated by "live" or "act" or "behave."
• The phrase "walk by the Spirit" could be translated by, "live in obedience to the Holy Spirit" or "behave in a way that is pleasing to the Holy Spirit" or "do things that are pleasing to God as the Holy Spirit guides you."
• To "walk in God's commands" could be translated by "live by God's commands" or "obey God's commands."
• The phrase "walked with God" could be translated as, "lived in close relationship with God by obeying and honoring him."

(See also: Holy Spirit, honor)

Bible References:

• 1 John 01:07
• 1 Kings 02:04
• Colossians 02:07
• Galatians 05:25
• Genesis 17:01
• Isaiah 02:05
• Jeremiah 13:10
• Micah 04:02

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1869, H1980, H1981, H3212, H4108, G1704, G4043, G4748

Forms Found in the English ULB:

walk, walk around, walked, walking, walking around, walks

watch

Related Ideas:

keep watch, watch out, watchful, watchman

Definition:

The term "watch" means to look at something very closely and carefully. It also has several figurative meanings.

• To "keep watch" or "keep close watch" can mean to guard, protect or take care of someone or something.
• To "watch out" means to be careful to avoid a danger or harmful influence.
• To "be watchful" means to be alert and aware of what is happening.
• A "watchman" was someone whose job was to guard a city by looking carefully all around him for any danger or threat to the people in the city.

These ideas can also be used figuratively.

• To "watch" or "keep watch" means to always be alert and on guard against sin and evil. It can also mean to "be ready."
• The command to "watch your life and doctrine closely" means to be careful to live wisely and to not believe false teachings.

Translation Suggestions

• Other ways of translating "watch" could include "pay close attention to" or "be diligent" or "be very careful" or "be on guard."
• Other words for "watchman" are "sentry" or "guard."

Bible References:

• 1 Thessalonians 05:06
• Hebrews 13:17
• Jeremiah 31:4-6
• Mark 08:15
• Mark 13:33-34
• Matthew 25:10-13

Word Data:

• Strong's: H821, H2370, H4931, H5027, H5234, H5341, H6486, H6485, H6822, H6836, H7181, H7462, H7789, H7919, H8104, H8108, H8245, G69, G991, G1127, G1983, G2334, G2657, G2892, G3525, G3708, G3906, G4337, G4648, G5083, G5426, G5438, G5442

Forms Found in the English ULB:

keep ... watch, kept ... watch, watch, watch out, watched, watchful, watching, watchman, watchmen

well

Related Ideas:

cistern

Definition:

The terms "well" and "cistern" refer to two different kinds of sources for water in Bible times.

• A well is a deep hole dug into the ground so that underground water can flow into it.
• A cistern is a deep hole dug into rock that was used as a holding tank for collecting rain water.
• Cisterns were usually dug into rock and sealed with plaster to keep the water in. A "broken cistern" happened when the plaster became cracked so that the water leaked out.
• Cisterns were often located in the courtyard area of people's homes to catch the rainwater that would run off the roof.
• Wells were often located where they could be accessed by several families or a whole community.
• Because water was very important for both people and livestock, the right to use a well was often a cause of strife and conflict.
• Both wells and cisterns were usually covered with a large stone to prevent anything falling in it. Often there was a rope with a bucket or pot attached to it to bring the water up to the surface.
• Sometimes a dry cistern was used as a place to imprison someone, such as happened to Joseph and Jeremiah.
• These terms are similar in meaning. The main difference is that a well continually receives water from underground springs, whereas a cistern is a holding tank for water that usually comes from rain.

Translation Suggestions:

• Ways to translate "well" could include "deep water hole" or "deep hole for spring water" or "deep hole for drawing water."
• The term "cistern" could be translated as "stone water pit" or "deep and narrow pit for water" or "underground tank for holding water."

(See also: Jeremiah, prison, strife)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 11:17
• 2 Samuel 17:17-18
• Genesis 16:14
• Luke 14:4-6
• Numbers 20:17

Word Data:

• Strong's: H875, H953, H1360, H4002, H4599, H4726, H4841, G4077, G5421

Forms Found in the English ULB:

cistern, cisterns, well, wells

word

Definition:

A "word" refers to something that someone has said. In the Bible, it almost always refers to an entire message, not just one word.

• An example of this is when the angel told Zechariah, "You did not believe my words," which means, "You did not believe what I said."
• Sometimes "word" refers to speech in general, such as "powerful in word and deed" which means "powerful in speech and behavior."
• Often in the Bible "the word" refers to everything God has said or commanded, as in "the word of God" or "the word of truth."
• A very special use of this term is when Jesus is called "the Word." For these last two meanings, see word of God

Translation Suggestions:

• Different ways of translating "word" or "words" include "teaching" or "message" or "news" or "a saying" or "what was said."

(See also: word of God)

Bible References:

• 2 Timothy 04:02
• Acts 08:04
• Colossians 04:03
• James 01:18
• Jeremiah 27:04
• John 01:03
• John 01:14
• Luke 08:15
• Matthew 02:08
• Matthew 07:27

Word Data:

• Strong's: H561, H562, H565, H1697, H1703, H2656, H2706, H4405, H4406, H7878, H8052, G518, G1024, G1310, G3054, G3055, G3056, G4086, G4487, G5023, G5537, G5542

Forms Found in the English ULB:

word, words, message, messages

work

Related Ideas:

act, deed, fellow worker

Definition:

In the Bible, the terms "work," "deed," and "act" are used to refer generally to things that God or people do.

• 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 Holy Spirit empowers believers to do good works, which are also called "good fruit."
• The term "work" can also refer to "service" or "ministry."
• People are not saved by their good works; they are saved through faith in Jesus.
• The term "fellow worker" means someone who does a ministry along with someone else.

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 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 03:12
• Acts 02:8-11
• Daniel 04:37
• Exodus 34:10-11
• Galatians 02:15-16
• James 02:17
• Matthew 16:27-28
• Micah 02:07
• Romans 03:28
• Titus 03:4-5

Word Data:

• Strong's: H1576, H4399, H4566, H4567, H4611, H4639, H4659, H5673, H5949, H5998, H6213, H6466, H6468, G1754, G2038, G2040, G2041, G2716, G3173

Forms Found in the English ULB:

act, action, actions, activities, acts, deed, deeds, fellow worker, fellow workers, work, works

world

Related Ideas:

universe, worldly

Definition:

The term "world" usually refers to the part of the universe where people live: the earth. The term "worldly" describes the evil values and behaviors of people living in this world.

• In its most general sense, the term "world" refers to the heavens and the earth, as well as everything in them.
• In many contexts, "world" actually means "people in the world."
• Sometimes it is implied that this refers to the evil people on earth or the people who do not obey God.
• The apostles also used "world" to refer to the selfish behaviors and corrupt values of the people living in this world. This can include self-righteous religious practices which are based on human efforts.
• People and things characterized by these values are said to be "worldly."

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, "world" could also be translated as "universe" or "people of this world" or "corrupt things in the world" or "evil attitudes of people in the world."
• The phrase "all the world" often means "many people" and refers to the people living in a certain region. For example, "all the world came to Egypt" could be translated as "many people from the surrounding countries came to Egypt" or "people from all the countries surrounding Egypt came there."
• Another way to translate "all the world went to their hometown to be registered in the Roman census" would be "many of the people living in regions ruled by the Roman empire went..."
• Depending on the context, the term "worldly" could be translated as, "evil" or "sinful" or "selfish" or "ungodly" or "corrupt" or "influenced by the corrupt values of people in this world."
• The phrase "saying these things in the world" can be translated as "saying these things to the people of the world."
• In other contexts, "in the world" could also be translated as "living among the people of the world" or "living among ungodly people."

(See also: corrupt, heaven, Rome, godly)

Bible References:

• 1 John 02:15
• 1 John 04:05
• 1 John 05:05
• John 01:29
• Matthew 13:36-39

Word Data:

• Strong's: H776, H2309, H2465, H2717, H5769, H8398, G165, G1093, G2886, G2889, G3625

Forms Found in the English ULB:

universe, world, world's, worldly

worship

Related Ideas:

worshiper

Definition:

To "worship" means to honor, praise and obey someone, especially God.

• When the Israelites worshiped God, it often included sacrificing an animal on an altar.
• Often people bow down when they worship someone.
• Some people worshiped false gods.

Translation Suggestions:

• The term "worship" could be translated as "bow down to" or "honor and serve" or "honor and obey."
• In some contexts, it could also be translated as "humbly praise" or "give honor and praise."

(See also: sacrifice, praise, honor)

Bible References:

• Colossians 02:18-19
• Deuteronomy 29:18
• Exodus 03:11-12
• Luke 04:07
• Matthew 02:02
• Matthew 02:08

Word Data:

• Strong's: H5457, H5647, H7812, G1391, G2151, G2152, G2323, G2356, G2999, G3000, G3008, H3372, G4352, G4353, G4573, G4574, G4576

Forms Found in the English ULB:

worship, worshiped, worshiper's, worshipers, worshiping, worships

worthy

Related Ideas:

deserve, nullify, unworthy, worth, worthily, worthless, worthlessness, worthy

Definition:

The term "worthy" describes someone or something that deserves respect or honor. To "have worth" means to be valuable or important.

• Being "worthy" is related to being valuable or having importance.
• To do something "worthily" means to do something in a worthy way.
• To be "unworthy" means to not be deserving of any honor or recognition.
• To be "worthless" means to not have any purpose or value.
• To "nullify" something is to make it worth nothing.

Translation Suggestions:

• "Worthy" could be translated as "deserving" or "important" or "valuable."
• The word "worth" could be translated as "value" or "importance."
• The phrase to "have worth" could also be translated as to "be valuable" or to "be important."
• The phrase "is worth more than" could be translated as "is more valuable than."
• Depending on the context, the term, "unworthy" could also be translated as "unimportant" or "dishonorable" or "undeserving."
• The term "worthless" could be translated as "with no value" or "with no purpose" or "worth nothing."

(See also: honor)

Bible References:

• 2 Samuel 22:04
• 2 Thessalonians 01:11-12
• Acts 13:25
• Acts 25:25-27
• Acts 26:31
• Colossians 01:9-10
• Jeremiah 08:19
• Mark 01:07
• Matthew 03:10-12
• Philippians 01:25-27

Word Data:

• Strong's: H457, H1100, H2428, H3276, H3644, H4242, H4373, H4392, H4592, H4941, H5541, H6994, H7385, H7386, H7723, H7939, H8602, G96, G514, G515, G516, G888, G1777, G2425, G2480, G2661, G3152, G4186, G5092

Forms Found in the English ULB:

deserve, deserved, deserves, deserving, nullify, unworthy, worth, worthily, worthless, worthlessness, worthy

zeal

Related Ideas:

diligence, diligent, eager, eagerness, zealous, zealously

Definition:

The terms "zeal" and "zealous" refer to being strongly devoted to supporting a person or idea.

• Zeal includes having strong desire and actions that promote a good cause. It is often used to describe someone who faithfully obeys God and teaches others to do that too.
• Being zealous includes putting intense effort into doing something and continuing to persevere in that effort.
• The "zeal of the Lord" or the "zeal of Yahweh" refers to God's strong, persistent actions to bless his people or to see justice done.

Translation Suggestions:

• To "be zealous" could also be translated by, "be strongly diligent" or "make an intense effort."
• The term "zeal" could also be translated as "energetic devotion" or "eager determination" or "righteous enthusiasm."
• The phrase, "zeal for your house" could be translated, "strongly honoring your temple" or "fervent desire to take care of your house."

Bible References:

• 1 Corinthians 12:31
• 1 Kings 19:9-10
• Acts 22:03
• Galatians 04:17
• Isaiah 63:15
• John 02:17-19
• Philippians 03:06
• Romans 10:1-3

Word Data:

• Strong's: H2734, H7065, H7068, G2205, G2206, G2207, G4710

Forms Found in the English ULB:

diligence, diligent, eager, eagerness, making ... effort, zeal, zealous, zealously