Bible Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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bible
[ˈbaɪ.bəl ]
Definition
religious text
The Bible is a collection of sacred scriptures in Christianity and Judaism, containing the Old and New Testaments. It is considered by believers to be the inspired word of God, used for teaching, guidance, and spiritual insight. The Old Testament includes texts sacred to Judaism, while the New Testament focuses on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the early Christian Church. Different Christian denominations may have variations in the books included in their versions of the Bible.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She reads the Bible every morning.
- The Bible teaches love and compassion.
- In church, we often study the Bible together.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'Bible' comes from the Greek word 'biblia,' meaning 'books,' which reflects its collection of multiple texts.
- The texts that now make up the Bible were written over approximately 1,500 years by various authors across different cultures.
- The oldest known biblical texts date back to around the 10th century BCE and were discovered in ancient Israel.
Cultural Impact
- The Bible has been translated into over 3,000 languages, making it the most translated book in history.
- Many phrases and idioms used in English, like 'the writing on the wall,' originate from the Bible.
- It has influenced countless works of art, literature, and music, shaping Western culture significantly.
Science and History
- Archaeological finds have corroborated some historical events described in the Bible, such as the existence of ancient cities.
- The Bible has sparked numerous debates regarding the intersection of faith and science, particularly in discussions related to creation and history.
- Extreme weather patterns and natural disasters mentioned in the Bible are often studied in climate science.
Psychology and Sociology
- Research has shown that reading the Bible can provide comfort and hope, impacting mental health positively.
- Beliefs derived from biblical teachings can shape personal values and attitudes towards morality in societies.
- It's common for communities to come together for worship, creating strong social ties built on shared beliefs.
Literature
- The Bible has inspired many famous writers, including John Milton and Leo Tolstoy, who found themes of morality and redemption in its stories.
- Its poetic and narrative structures have been studied extensively in literary analysis, influencing narrative techniques across genres.
- Parables found within the Bible remain some of the most referenced storytelling formats to convey moral lessons.
Origin of 'bible'
The term 'Bible' comes from the Greek word 'biblia', which means 'books'. This nomenclature reflects the Bible's status as a compilation of various writings. The origins of the text are rooted in ancient Hebrew scriptures, and the earliest texts date back over a thousand years before the common era. The New Testament was written in the first century CE, contributing to the establishment of Christianity as a distinct religion. Over the centuries, the Bible has undergone various translations and interpretations, influencing cultures, laws, and philosophies around the world. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century significantly enhanced the distribution of the Bible, leading to greater literacy and access to its teachings. Today, the Bible is one of the most widely read and translated books in history.