Language: English

Book: Philemon

Introduction to Philemon

Who wrote this letter?

Paul wrote the letter to Philemon himself. The letter said Paul is the writer of the letter (see: 1:1,9,19). It is one of the letters Paul wrote while he was in prison. Paul also wrote the books of Ephesians, Colossians, and Philippians while in prison. In many of Paul’s letters he called himself an apostle or an apostle and a servant. However, in Philemon, Paul does not call himself an apostle or servant. This is his only letter that does not say he was an apostle or servant.

See: Apostle

To Whom did Paul write?

Paul wrote this letter to Philemon. The letter also said that Paul wanted to say some things to Philemon’s family and the church that came together in his home. Philemon was a Christian. Perhaps he became a Christian after hearing the gospel and listening to the teachings of Paul. Scholars think Philemon and Paul met in Ephesus. They also think Philemon was a wealthy man. This is because he owned a home large enough for a church to gather inside, and there was at least one slave in his household.

See: Gospel

What did Paul write about in the Book of Philemon?

Paul wrote that Philemon needed to forgive Onesimus. Onesimus was Philemon’s slave, but Onesimus left Philemon and went to Rome. While in Rome, Onesimus met Paul. Soon he became a follower of Jesus because of Paul’s teaching. Onesimus stayed in Rome and served Paul while Paul was in prison. Paul knew he needed to return Onesimus to Philemon. It was against the law for a slave to leave his master. Because Onesimus became a Christian, Paul asked Philemon to take Onesimus back into his home, showing mercy to Onesimus. Paul meant for Philemon to take Onesimus back, not only as a slave, but also to welcome him as if he were a brother. This is because scripture speaks about all Christians as if they are brothers and sisters in Christ. Paul told Philemon that Onesimus helped him in the service of the gospel. Also, he wanted to keep Onesimus with him. However, Paul did not want to do anything without Philemon’s permission, because Philemon still owned Onesimus.

See: Mercy; Gospel; Family of God

Outline of Philemon

1. Paul’s greeting to Philemon (1-3)
2. Paul’s words of thanksgiving and encouragement (4-7)
3. Paul’s request of Philemon on behalf of Onesimus (8-21)
4. Paul’s hope to visit Philemon (21-22)
5. Paul’s closing greetings (23-25)

Philemon

Chapter 1

¹ Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and the brother Timothy, to Philemon, our dear friend and fellow worker, ² and to Apphia our sister, and to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church that meets in your home.

³ May grace be to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

⁴ I always thank my God when I mention you in my prayers, ⁵ because I hear about the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and the love you have for all his holy people. ⁶ I pray that the sharing of your faith may be effective, so you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ. ⁷ For I have had much joy and comfort because of your love, because the hearts of God's holy people have been refreshed by you, brother.

⁸ Therefore, although I have all the boldness in Christ to command you to do what you should do, ⁹ yet because of love, I appeal to you instead—I, Paul, an old man, and now a prisoner for Christ Jesus. ¹⁰ I am appealing to you concerning my child Onesimus, whom I have fathered in my chains. ¹¹ For he once was useless to you, but now he is useful both to you and to me. ¹² I have sent him back to you, he who is my very heart. ¹³ I wish I could have kept him with me so he could serve me for you while I am in chains for the sake of the gospel. ¹⁴ But I did not want to do anything without your consent. I did not want your good deed to be from necessity but from good will. ¹⁵ Perhaps for this he was separated from you for a time, so that you might have him back forever. ¹⁶ No longer would he be a slave, but better than a slave, a beloved brother. He is beloved especially to me, and much more so to you, in both the flesh and in the Lord. ¹⁷ So if you have me as a partner, receive him as me. ¹⁸ If he has wronged you or owes you anything, charge that to me. ¹⁹ I, Paul, write this with my own hand. I myself will pay it back—not to mention that you owe me your own self! ²⁰ Yes, brother, let me benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ.

²¹ Confident about your obedience, I am writing to you. I know that you will do even more than I ask. ²² At the same time, prepare a guest room for me, for I hope that through your prayers I will be returned to you.

²³ Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, greets you. ²⁴ So do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers.

²⁵ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

Philemon 1 Commentary

1:1-3

Why did Paul say he was a prisoner of Christ Jesus?

[1:1]

When Paul said he was a prisoner of Jesus Christ, he wanted to say that he was servant of Jesus. Paul was often locked in prison for speaking publicly about Jesus. Many scholars think Caesar, the ruler of Rome, arrested Paul and placed him in a house to be guarded. However, Paul thought of himself as primarily the prisoner of Christ (see: Acts 28:16-31). He knew that he was in prison as a way to serve Jesus.

How did Paul greet Philemon?

[1:1, 1:2, 1:3]

Paul greeted Philemon, his household, and the “church”(ἐκκλησία/g1577) that gathered in his house. This was how Paul often began his letters. Paul greeted them in the form of a prayer that begins with God’s “favor”(χάρις/g5485). God’s favor speaks about all the gifts God gives his children. That is, he gives favor to all those who believe in him. Paul also greeted Philemon and the church with “peace.” Many scholars think that peace comes from God’s favor. This peace makes God and man friends.

See: Church

1:4-7

How did Paul pray for Philemon?

[1:4, 1:6]

Paul told Philemon that he thanked God for him. Paul told Philemon that he thanked God for the “love”(ἀγάπη/g0026) Philemon had for others, the love he had for God, and for the “faith’(πίστις/g4102) he had in God.. Others people saw that Philemon had these things.

Paul also prayed that people would serve Jesus because of Philemon’s “participation”(κοινωνία/g2842) in the faith. Some scholars think Paul prayed for Philemon to be effective in his participation, or sharing, about the faith. That is, others were able to understand how to believe in Jesus. Other scholars think Paul prayed for Philemon’s “faith”(πίστις/g4102) to be effective. That is, Paul wanted Philemon to know and use all the good things God gives to Christians for them to follow Jesus.

When he ended his prayer, Paul told Philemon he had much “joy”(χαρά/g5479) because Philemon showed love to the “people who belong to God”(ἅγιος/g0040). Some scholars think Philemon’s love encouraged Paul because he saw Philemon’s faith when he loved others and God. Because of this, Philemon “refreshed”(ἀναπαύω/g0373) the hearts of the Christians. That is, he encouraged them and helped them to want to love other people. It is good for Christians to give new energy, joy, and peace to other Christians in the same way as Philemon.

1:8-11

Why did Paul command Philemon to obey him?

[1:8, 1:9]

Jesus made Paul an apostle and gave him permission to tell Christians what they needed to do to follow Jesus’ commands. Jesus commanded apostles to rule and to teach Christians. For this reason, Paul commanded Philemon.

See: Apostle

Why did Paul appeal to Philemon?

[1:9]

When Paul made an “appeal”(παρακαλέω/g3870), he made a serious request of Philemon. Paul spoke to Philemon as a brother and not as someone he ruled. Paul wanted Philemon to respond to his request because Philemon loved Paul. For this reason, Paul appealed to Philemon as a trusted brother instead of commanding him.

See: Family of God

How did Paul talk about himself to Philemon?

[1:9]

Paul said he was an old man locked in prison for Christ Jesus. Some scholars think Paul did not speak about his age in years. They think this was a type of metaphor. He spoke about his experience of living for Christ for a long period of time.

See: Metaphor

How was Paul the father of Onesimus?

[1:10]

Paul said that while he was a prisoner, he became a father to Onesimus. At the time in which Paul wrote, people called spiritual leaders or teachers a father. Onesimus became Paul’s student. Paul taught him about how to live as a Christian.

See: Family of God

What does the name Onesimus mean?

[1:10]

The name Onesimus is the Greek word for “useful” (Ὀνήσιμος/g3682). Some scholars said that many people in ancient times named their slaves Onesimus. Some scholars think Paul told Philemon that Onesimus was not useful in the work of the gospel when he first met him. But after becoming a Christian he became very useful to both Paul and Philemon. He was useful because he now helped in the work of the gospel.

See: Gospel

1:12-16

Why did Paul say he was sending his own heart?

[1:12]

Paul told Philemon he was sending his very “heart”(σπλάγχνον/g4698). That is, Paul called Onesimus his heart because he became a close, personal friend and helper while Paul was in prison. Paul’s love for Onesimus came from deep within his soul and spirit. Paul decided to send Onesimus back to Philemon. But, he told Philemon he wanted to keep Onesimus with him. That is, he wanted his help in sharing the gospel. But, Paul did not want to do anything without Philemon agreeing with it. Paul did not want to force Philemon to allow Onesimus to help him. Paul wanted Philemon to “willingly” (ἑκούσιος/g1595) allow Onesimus to serve him because Philemon felt it was good for both Paul and Onesimus.

See: Gospel; Spirit (Spiritual); Gospel

What reason does Paul suggest for Onesimus’ separation from Philemon?

[1:15]

Some scholars think Paul said that God wanted Onesimus to run away from Philemon. That is, God wanted Onesimus to become a Christian. These scholars think God worked in the same way in the Old Testament with Joseph (see: Genesis 50:20). Paul also said to Philemon that God wanted to give him Onesimus back “forever”(αἰώνιος/g0166). Most scholars think Paul said that Philemon and Onesimus were now brothers in the Lord forever.

See: Family of God

What did Paul mean by stating “no longer as a slave”?

[1:16]

Paul told Philemon that Onesimus was “no longer a slave” but now a “beloved”(ἀγαπητός/g0027) brother. That is, Philemon needed to accept Onesimus in the same way he accepts a brother. Most scholars think Paul told Philemon that Onesimus was now much more than simply a “slave”(δοῦλος/g1401). They do not think Paul told Philemon to free Onesimus from being his slave. Paul spoke about slaves and masters in other books he wrote (see: Colossians 3:22-4:1; 1 Corinthians 7:22).

See: Family of God

Why did Paul say that Onesimus was a beloved brother in the flesh and in the Lord?

[1:16]

Paul told Philemon that Onesimus was beloved brother “in the flesh.” That is, Onesimus was now a better servant to Philemon. Paul spoke about Onesimus now being a more responsible servant. While Paul was in prison, Onesimus helped him with the work of the gospel. So, Paul told Philemon to receive Onesimus as a beloved brother in the Lord too.

See: Family of God;Flesh; Family of God

1:17-21

How were Paul and Philemon partners?

[1:17]

Paul and Philemon were “partners”(κοινωνός/g2844) because of their work together for the gospel. Paul spoke of Philemon as a fellow worker with him. Also, he spoke of him in the same way as his brother (see: 1:7). A “church”(ἐκκλησία/g1577) met in Philemon’s house. Because Onesimus became a partner with Paul in the work of the gospel, Paul asked Philemon to welcome Onesimus back to his home with love and respect. That is, take him back into his house in the same way he took Paul into his home.

See: Family of God;Family of God

Why was Paul willing to pay to Philemon whatever Onesimus owed Philemon?

[1:18]

Paul was willing to pay Onesimus’ debt to Philemon because he loved and respected both men. They were his friends and brothers in Christ. Some scholars think Philemon owed a debt to Paul, to work in the service of the gospel with him. But, Onesimus served in the place of Philemon (see: 13). They think Paul said that for this reason he now payed any debt Onesimus might owe to Philemon.

Advice to Translators: A debt is an amount of money that someone owes to another person.

See: Family of God

Why did Paul state that he wrote this letter with his own hand?

[1:19]

Some scholars think Paul wrote this letter himself because it was personal. In some of his letters, Paul only wrote the greetings with his own hands. Someone else wrote the rest of the letter while Paul told them what to write. Other scholars think Paul said that he wrote this letter with his own hand because it made a legal promise to Philemon to repay any debt Onesimus owed Philemon.

Advice to Translators: A debt is an amount of money that someone owes to another person.

Why did Paul say Philemon owed Paul?

[1:19]

Perhaps Philemon owes Paul his very life because Philemon believed in Jesus after he heard Paul teaching about Jesus. Philemon was unable to pay this debt with money. Instead, Paul knew Philemon continued to be a faithful partner in the work of the gospel.

Advice to Translators: A debt is an amount of money that someone owes to another person.

See: Gospel

In what way did Philemon refresh Paul’s heart?

[1:20]

In the same way Paul gave thanks to Philemon for “refreshing”(ἀναπαύω/g0373) other believers, he asked Philemon to refresh his heart (see: 1:7). Paul said that Philemon was going to refresh Paul’s heart by taking Onesimus back into his home. And, Paul wanted Philemon to take Onesimus back not only as a valuable servant, but as a brother in the Lord.

See: Family of God

1:21-22

In what way was Paul confident of Philemon’s obedience?

[1:21]

Some scholars think Paul said he was confident Philemon was going to be “obedient”(ὑπακοή/g5218) to what he told Philemon to do. That is, he knew Philemon was going to take Onesimus back as a valued servant and a brother in the Lord. These scholars think Paul also knew that any of Onesimus’ debt to Philemon was going to be transferred to Paul’s account. Other scholars think that Paul was confident in Philemon that Philemon would obey God and that he believed in in the gospel (see: Romans 1:5; 16:26). These scholars think Paul spoke good things of Philemon and because of Philemon’s faith in the gospel, Paul knows he will do more than what Paul requested. Paul was to be released from prison soon, so he also asked Philemon to make a room for him to stay in (see: Philippians 2:19-24). In stating that he hoped to soon be “given”(χαρίζομαι/g5483) to Philemon, Paul was expressing his confidence in the favor of God to release him from prison.

Advice to Translators: A debt is an amount of money that someone owes to another person.

See: Family of God; Family of God

1:23-25

In what way was Epaphras Paul’s fellow prisoner?

[1:23]

Many scholars think that Epaphras was a prisoner in the same way Paul was a prisoner. That is, he was arrested and placed in prison. However, scholars do not know if Epaphras was in prison at the time Paul wrote the letter to Philemon. Although Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke were called fellow workers, Aristarchus was also called a fellow prisoner in Christ along with Paul (see: Colossians 4:10).

How does Paul end his letter to Philemon?

[1:25]

When Paul ended his letter, he asked God to “favor”(χάρις/g5485) Philemon. He asked that this favor be with Philemon’s “spirit”(πνεῦμα/g4151). Most scholars think Paul spoke about the human spirit of Philemon. Paul prayed that Philemon experienced the Lord’s favor within himself, his household, and with all the Christians in his home.

ULB Translation Questions

ULB Translation Words

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

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, god, God the Father, Holy Spirit, 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

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

Luke

Facts:

Luke wrote two books of the New Testament: the gospel of Luke and the book of Acts.

• In his letter to the Colossians, Paul refers to Luke as a doctor. Paul also mentions Luke in two of his other letters.
• It is thought that Luke was a Greek and a Gentile who came to know Christ. In his gospel, Luke includes several accounts that highlight Jesus' love for all peoples, both Jews and Gentiles.
• Luke accompanied Paul on two of his missionary journeys and helped him in his work.
• In some early church writings, it is said that Luke was born in the city of Antioch in Syria.

(See also: Antioch, Paul, Syria)

Bible References:

• 2 Timothy 04:11-13
• Colossians 04:12-14
• Philemon 01:24

Word Data:

• Strong's: G3065

Forms Found in the English ULB:

Luke, Luke's

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 authorities, 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

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

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

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

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

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'

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

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: courage, 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

command

Related Ideas:

commandment, forbid, order, requirement, solemn command

Definition:

The term to "command" means to order someone to do something. A "command" or "commandment" is what the person was ordered to do.

• Although these terms have basically the same meaning, "commandment" often refers to certain commands of God which are more formal and permanent, such as the "Ten Commandments."
• A command can be positive ("Honor your parents") or negative ("Do not steal").
• To "take command" means to "take control" or "take charge" of something or someone.
• To "forbid" is to command that someone not do something.

Translation Suggestions

• It is best to translate this term differently from the term "law." Also compare with the definitions of "decree" and "statute."
• Some translators may prefer to translate "command" and "commandment" with the same word in their language.
• Others may prefer to use a special word for commandment that refers to lasting, formal commands that God has made.

(See decree, statute, law, Ten Commandments)

Bible References:

• Luke 01:06
• Matthew 01:24
• Matthew 22:38
• Matthew 28:20
• Numbers 01:17-19
• Romans 07:7-8

Word Data:

• Strong's: H560, H565, H1696, H1697, H1881, H2706, H2708, H2710, H2942, H2951, H3027, H3245, H3982, H3983, H4406, H4687, H4931, H5713, H5749, H6346, H6490, H6673, H6680, H7101, H7218, H7227, H7262, H7970, H8269, G1263, G1291, G1296, G1297, G1299, G1690, G1778, G1781, G1785, G2003, G2004, G2008, G2036, G2753, G3056, G3143, G3726, G3852, G3853, G4367, G4487, G5506

Forms Found in the English ULB:

command, commanded, commanding, commandment, commandments, commands, forbid, forbidden, forbidding, give ... solemn command, given ... solemn commands, given an order, given orders, order, ordered, orders, requirement, solemn commands

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

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

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

hand

Related Ideas:

handbreadth, handful, lay a hand on

Definition:

There are several figurative ways that "hand" is used in the Bible:

• To "hand" something to someone means to put something into that person's hands.
• The term "hand" is often used in reference to God's power and action, such as when God says "Has not my hand made all these things?"
• Expressions such as "hand over to" or "deliver into the hands of" refer to causing someone to be under the control or power of someone else.

• Some other figurative uses of "hand" include:

• To "lay a hand on" means to "harm."

• To "save from the hand of" means to stop someone from harming someone else.
• The position of being "on the right hand" means "on the right side" or "to the right."

• The expression "by the hand of" someone means "by" or "through" the action of that person. For example, "by the hand of the Lord" means that the Lord is the one who caused something to happen.

• Placing hands on someone is often done while speaking a blessing over that person.

• The term "laying on of hands" refers to placing a hand on a person in order to dedicate that person to God's service or to pray for healing.
• When Paul says "written by my hand," it means that this part of the letter was physically written down by him, rather than spoken to someone else to write down.

Translation Suggestions

• These expressions and other figures of speech could be translated using other figurative expressions that have the same meaning. Or the meaning could be translated using direct, literal language (see examples above).
• The expression "handed him the scroll" could also be translated as "gave him the scroll" or "put the scroll in his hand." It was not given to him permanently, but just for the purpose of using it at that time.
• When "hand" refers to the person, such as in "the hand of God did this," it could be translated as "God did this."
• An expression such as "delivered them into the hands of their enemies" or "handed them over to their enemies," could be translated as, "allowed their enemies to conquer them" or "caused them to be captured by their enemies" or "empowered their enemies to gain control over them."
• To "die by the hand of" could be translated as "be killed by."
• The expression "on the right hand of" could be translated as "on the right side of."
• In regard to Jesus being "seated at the right hand of God," if this does not communicate in the language that it refers to a position of high honor and equal authority, a different expression with that meaning could be used. Or a short explanation could be added: "on the right side of God, in the position of highest authority."

(See also: adversary, bless, captive, honor, power)

Bible References:

• Acts 07:25
• Acts 08:17
• Acts 11:21
• Genesis 09:05
• Genesis 14:20
• John 03:35
• Mark 07:32
• Matthew 06:03

Word Data:

• Strong's: G710, G1188, G2176, G2902, G4084, G5495, G5496, G5497, H2026, H2651, H2947, H2948, H3027, H3028, H3231, H3233, H3709, H7126, H7138, H8042, H8168

Forms Found in the English ULB:

by the hand of, fist, from the hand of, hand, handbreadth, handed, handful, handfuls, handing, hands, lay a hand on, lays his hand on

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

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

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

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

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 of Moses, 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

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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. In the ULB, the word "love" refers to this kind of sacrificial love, unless a Translation Note indicates a different meaning.

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

6. This term refers to natural human love between friends or relatives.

7. 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.

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

9. 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

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

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: 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

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

return

Definition:

The term "return" means to go back or to give something back.

• To "return to" a place or person means to bo back to that place or person again.
• To "return to" an activity means to start doing that activity again.
• When the Israelites returned to their worship of idols, they started to worship them again.
• When the Israelites returned to Yahweh, they repented and worshiped Yahweh again.
• To "return" land or things that were taken or received from someone else means to give that property back to the person it belongs to.

(See also: turn)

Bible References:

Word Data:

• Strong's: H5437, H7725, H7729, H8421, H8666, G344, G390, G1877, G1880, G1994, G5290, G4762

Forms Found in the English ULB:

return, return back, returned, returning, returns

sister

Definition:

A sister is a female person who shares at least one biological parent with another person. She is said to be that other person’s sister or the sister of that other person.

• In the New Testament, "sister" is also used figuratively to refer to a woman who is a fellow believer in Jesus Christ.
• Sometimes the phrase "brothers and sisters" is used to refer to all believers in Christ, both men and women.
• In the Old Testament book Song of Songs, "sister" refers to a female lover or wife.

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 sister, unless this would give wrong meaning.
• Other ways to translate this could include "sister in Christ" or "spiritual sister" or "woman who believes in Jesus" or "fellow woman believer."
• If possible, it is best to use a family term.
• If the language has a feminine form for "believer," this may be a possible way to translate this term.
• When referring to a lover or wife, this could be translated using a feminine form of "loved one" or "dear one."

(See also: brother in Christ, spirit)

Bible References:

• 1 Chronicles 02:16-17
• Deuteronomy 27:22
• Philemon 01:02
• Romans 16:01

Word Data:

• Strong's: H269, G27, G79

Forms Found in the English ULB:

sister, sister's, sisters, sisters'

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, father, 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

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

turn

Related Ideas:

apostasy, apostate

Definition:

To "turn" means to physically change direction or to cause something else to change direction.

• The term "turn" can also mean "turn around" to look behind or to face a different direction.
• To "turn back" or "turn away" means to "go back" or "go away" or "cause to go away."
• To "turn away from" something can mean either to stop doing it or to not start doing it.
• To "turn away from" someone means either to refuse to have anything to do with him or to reject him.
• To "turn toward" someone means to look directly at that person.
• To "turn and leave" or "turn his back to leave" means to "go away."
• To "turn back to" means to "start doing something again."
• To "turn away from" means to "stop doing something."
• To "avoid" something is to stay away from it.
• "Apostasy" is the act of turning away from God.
• An "act of apostasy" is an action that someone does to show that he no longer wants to obey God or because he no longer obeys God.
• The term "apostate" describes people who have turned away from God.

Translation Suggestions:

• Depending on the context, "turn" can be translated as "change direction" or "go" or "move."
• In some contexts, "turn" could be translated as "cause" (someone) to do something. To "turn (someone) away from" could be translated as "cause (someone) to go away" or "cause (someone) to stop."
• The phrase "turn away from God" could be translated as "stop worshiping God."
• The phrase "turn back to God" could be translated as "start worshiping God again."
• When enemies "turn back," it means they "retreat." To "turn back the enemy" means to "cause the enemy to retreat."
• Used figuratively, when Israel "turned to" false gods, they "started to worship" them. When they "turned away" from idols, they "stopped worshiping" them.
• When God "turned away from" his rebellious people, he "stopped protecting" or "stopped helping" them.
• The phrase "turn the hearts of the fathers to their children" could be translated as "cause fathers to care for their children again."
• The expression "turn my honor into shame" could be translated as "cause my honor to become shame" or "dishonor me so that I am shamed" or "shame me (by doing what is evil) so that people no longer honor me."
• "I will turn your cities into ruin" could be translated as "I will cause your cities to be destroyed" or "I will cause enemies to destroy your cities."
• The phrase "turn into" could be translated as "become." When Moses' rod "turned into" a snake, it "became" a snake." It could also be translated as "changed into."

(See also: god, leper, worship)

Bible References:

• 1 Kings 11:02
• Acts 07:42
• Acts 11:21
• Jeremiah 36:1-3
• Luke 01:17
• Malachi 04:06
• Revelation 11:06

Word Data:

• Strong's: H541, H2015, H2017, H2186, H2559, H3363, H3943, H4672, H4740, H4878, H5186, H5253, H5414, H5437, H5472, H5493, H5528, H5627, H5753, H6437, H7227, H7725, H7734, H7750, H7760, H7847, H8159, H8447, G344, G387, G654, G665, G868, G1294, G1578, G1612, G1624, G1994, G3179, G3313, G3329, G3344, G3346, G4762, G5157, G5290

Forms Found in the English ULB:

acts of apostasy, apostasy, apostate, turn, turn ... away, turned, turned ... away, turned ... away ... in disgust, turned ... back, turning, turning ... away, turns, turns ... away, turns ... away from

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

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

wrong

Related Ideas:

defraud, hurt, mistreat, wrongdoer, wrongdoing

Definition:

To "wrong" someone means to treat that person unjustly and dishonestly.

• Wrongdoing is the act of doing what is wrong. It can also refer to a behavior that is wrong.
• The term "defraud" means to illegally take money from someone by lying to them. Another word for this is "cheat."
• The terms "hurt" is more general and means to "cause someone harm in some way." It often has the meaning of "physically injure."
• The term "mistreat" means to act badly or roughly toward someone, causing physical or emotional harm to that person.
• Depending on the context, these terms could also be translated as "do wrong to" or, "treat unjustly" or "cause harm to" or treat in a harmful way" or "injure."

Bible References:

• Acts 07:26
• Exodus 22:21
• Genesis 16:05
• Luke 06:28
• Matthew 20:13-14
• Psalms 071:13

Word Data:

• Strong's: H205, H816, H2248, H2255, H2257, H2398, H2554, H2555, H3238, H3637, H4347, H4834, H5062, H5142, H5230, H5627, H5753, H5766, H5791, H5792, H5916, H5932, H6031, H6087, H6127, H6231, H6485, H6565, H6586, H7451, H7489, H7563, H7665, H7686, H8133, H8267, H8295, H8604, G91, G92, G93, G264, G824, G983, G984, G1536, G1651, G1727, G1908, G2556, G2559, G2607, G3076, G3077, G3762, G4122, G4550, G5195, G5196

Forms Found in the English ULB:

defraud, hurt, hurting, hurts, mistreat, mistreated, wrong, wrongdoer, wrongdoing, wronged, wrongfully, wronging, wrongs