What does the word “Bible” mean?

BibleAsk Team

Bible

The word Bible is simply a transliteration of the Greek word bíblos (βίβλος), meaning “book.” The word had the literal meaning of “paper” or “scroll” and came to be used as the ordinary word for “book.” Therefore the Bible is simply the “Book.” It is believed that the word Biblos was taken from an ancient seaport city named Byblos, in Lebanon. Byblos was famous for its export and trade of papyrus. Because of this connection, the Greeks possibly used the name of this city and adapted it to create their word for book.

The Bible is the record of God’s work in the world and His purpose towards His creation. One of the greatest miracles of the Bible is its unity. The Bible consists of 66 books that were written on three continents, in three languages, and by about 40 different people (such as kings, shepherds, scientists, attorneys, an army general, fishermen, priests, and a physician). It was written over a period of about 1,500 years

The Scriptures were written by godly men who were inspired by the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16). These men, in most cases, had never met and whose education and backgrounds varied greatly. These authors wrote on the most controversial subjects. Though it seems totally inconceivable, the 66 books maintain harmony with one another.

The inspired word tells of the story of how God created a perfect world and how the human race rebelled against Him, lost its state of perfection, and was sentenced to eternal death (Romans 6:23). But God felt infinite compassion over the lost human race and planned a way of redemption. God sent His innocent Son to die on behalf of humanity and carry the guilt of their sins (John 3:16).

The Scriptures present the good news of God’s salvation that are available for all that accept Jesusdeath by faith (John 1:12). The amazing truth of the Bible is that God not only offers forgiveness for sin but He also offers new godly nature to His children (2 Corinthians 5:17), and victory over sin (2 Corinthians 2:14). Thus, salvation and love are the central theme of the Bible (Isaiah 45:22).

I invite you today to get to know your Heavenly Father’s love by reading His book.

In His service,
BibleAsk Team

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