English Words

Truth 

Language 

English 

Derived From 

The English word truth most commonly translates: 

• Hebrew: אֱמֶת (Emet) — Strong's H571  

• Greek: ἀλήθεια (Alētheia) — Strong's G225  

Meaning 

In the Scriptures, truth is more than simply factual accuracy or correct information. 

The Hebrew word אֱמֶת (Emet) carries the ideas of truth, faithfulness, reliability, firmness, and trustworthiness. Something that is true is dependable because it is consistent with the character of Elohim. 

Likewise, the Greek word ἀλήθεια (Alētheia) refers to truth, reality, and that which is genuine and unconcealed. 

Throughout the Scriptures, truth is revealed through: 

• The character of Elohim.  

• His Word.  

• His instruction.  

• His faithfulness to His covenant promises.  

• The life and teachings of Master Yehoshua.  

Truth is therefore not merely something we know—it is something we are called to walk in. 

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I frequently speak of seeking truth. 

By this I do not mean searching for new ideas or hidden knowledge. Rather, I mean continually comparing every belief, tradition, and teaching against the Word of Elohim. 

I believe that every disciple should approach the Scriptures with humility, recognizing that we all "see through a mirror, dimly" (1 Corinthians 13:12). As we study, pray, and test everything against His Word, Elohim continues to teach and refine us. 

One might think truth is simply possessing the correct information.The Scriptures present truth as something much deeper. Truth is rooted in the character of YHWH our Elohim and is demonstrated by faithfulness, integrity, and obedience to His Word.  

Knowing the truth is important, but the Scriptures also call us to walk in truth. 

(Ps 119:160 [TS2009]) 

The sum of Your word is truth, And all Your righteous right-rulings are forever. 

(Ps 119:142 [TS2009]) 

Your righteousness is righteousness forever, And Your Torah is truth. 

Note: At some future point, my intention is to do a more in-depth study of this word, Truth. 

Pronunciation 

• Emet — eh-MET  

• Alētheia — ah-LAY-thay-ah  

Key Passages 

• Exodus 34:6  

• Deuteronomy 32:4  

• Psalm 25:5  

• Psalm 119:142  

• Psalm 119:160  

• Proverbs 23:23  

• John 8:31–32  

• John 14:6  

• John 17:17  

• Ephesians 4:15 

 

Holy 

Language 

English 

Derived From 

The English word holy is used in most Bible translations to translate the Hebrew words קָדוֹשׁ (Qadosh), קֹדֶשׁ (Qodesh), and related forms, as well as the Greek word ἅγιος (Hagios). 

Meaning 

In modern English, the word holy is often understood to mean morally perfect, sinless, or divine. While these ideas may be associated with holiness in certain contexts, they do not fully express the primary biblical concept. 

In the Scriptures, the Hebrew word Qadosh fundamentally means set apart, separate, or dedicated for the purposes of Almighty Elohim. 

Something that is set apart has been distinguished from what is common or ordinary and devoted to Him. This includes people, places, objects, times, and ultimately Elohim Himself. 

Understanding this meaning brings clarity to many passages throughout Scripture. 

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I generally use the phrase set apart instead of holy. 

I do this because I believe it more clearly communicates the primary meaning of the Hebrew word Qadosh. For example, when Scripture commands us to "remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy," I understand this to mean that the Sabbath is to be kept set apart, because Master YHWH Himself has distinguished it from the other six days of the week. 

Likewise, believers are called to be a people set apart, living lives devoted to Elohim and separated unto His purposes. 

Key Passages 

• Genesis 2:3  

• Exodus 20:8–11  

• Leviticus 11:44–45  

• Leviticus 19:2  

• Isaiah 6:3  

• Ezekiel 22:26  

• 1 Peter 1:15–16 

Common Misunderstanding 

Many people understand holy to mean primarily morally perfect. While Elohim is indeed morally perfect, the Hebrew concept of Qadosh (holy) begins with the idea of being set apart. Scripture speaks of many things as being set apart—the Sabbath, the Tabernacle, the priesthood, the Temple furnishings, and the people of Elohim—not because they are flawless, but because He has distinguished them for His purposes. 

 

Sin 

Language 

English 

Derived From 

The English word sin most commonly translates the Hebrew word חַטָּאת (Chatta'ah) or the verb חָטָא (Chata), as well as the Greek word ἁμαρτία (Hamartia). 

Meaning 

In the Scriptures, sin is fundamentally the act of missing the mark, going astray, or failing to meet the standard established by Elohim. 

The Hebrew verb Chata originally carried the idea of missing a target or failing to reach an intended goal. In the moral and spiritual sense, sin is failing to walk according to the instruction (Torah) of our Heavenly Father. 

The Scriptures define sin very plainly: 

"Everyone doing sin also does lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness." (1 John 3:4) 

Sin, therefore, is not simply making mistakes or failing to live up to our own standards. It is living contrary to the will and instruction of Elohim. 

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I use the word sin in its biblical sense—transgressing the instruction of Almighty Elohim. 

Modern culture often treats sin as merely making poor choices, harming oneself, or violating social norms. The Scriptures present a different picture. Sin is measured against the character and instruction of YHWH our Elohim, not against human opinion or changing cultural values. 

Understanding what Scripture means by sin helps us better understand why repentance, forgiveness, and the work of the Messiah are so essential. 

Key Passages 

• Genesis 4:7  

• Exodus 32:30–34  

• Psalm 51  

• Proverbs 28:13  

• Isaiah 59:1–2  

• Ezekiel 18:20  

• Romans 3:23  

• 1 John 3:4 

 

Evil 

Language 

English 

Strong’s Concordance 

Hebrew: רַע (Ra') — Strong's H7451; Also see H7489 

Derived From 

The English word evil most commonly translates the Hebrew word רַע (Ra') and related forms. It may also translate several Greek words, depending on the context. 

Meaning 

In modern English, evil is usually understood to mean moral wickedness, sinfulness, or that which is opposed to good. 

In the Hebrew Scriptures, however, the word רַע (Ra') has a broader range of meanings. Depending on the context, it may refer to: 

• Moral wickedness or sin.  

• Harm or injury.  

• Misfortune or adversity.  

• Calamity or disaster.  

• Something unpleasant or undesirable.  

The context determines which meaning is intended. 

For this reason, not every occurrence of the English word evil in the Bible refers to moral evil. Sometimes it refers to calamity, disaster, or adversity brought about as an act of judgment. 

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I encourage readers to examine the context whenever they encounter the word evil. 

One of the clearest examples is Isaiah 45:7. Some English translations say that Elohim "creates evil," while others translate the same Hebrew word as calamity, disaster, or woe. The Hebrew word is the same, but the surrounding context helps determine its meaning. 

Recognizing this broader usage helps prevent misunderstanding and reminds us that words should be understood as the biblical authors used them, not merely according to modern English definitions. 

Key Passages 

• Genesis 2:9  

• Genesis 6:5  

• Isaiah 45:7  

• Amos 3:6  

• Jeremiah 18:11  

• Jonah 3:10  

• Proverbs 8:13 

 

Satan 

Language 

English/Hebrew

Derived From 

The English word Satan comes from the Hebrew שָׂטָן (Satan). 

Strong's Number 

H7854 

Meaning 

The Hebrew word שָׂטָן (Satan) literally means adversary, opponent, or accuser. 

In the Hebrew Scriptures, the word is used in different ways depending on the context. It may refer to: 

• A human adversary or opponent.  

• An angel acting as an adversary.  

• The spiritual being who opposes Elohim and His people.  

The context determines whether the word is being used as a common noun ("an adversary") or as a title referring to the chief adversary. 

For example: 

• Numbers 22:22 — the Messenger of YHWH stands as a satan (an adversary) to Balaam.  

• 1 Samuel 29:4 — David is described as a potential adversary (satan) by the Philistine commanders. 

 In the Apostolic Writings, the Greek word Σατανᾶς (Satanas) is a transliteration of the Hebrew word and is used to refer to the chief adversary of YHWH our Elohim and His Kingdom. 

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I use the word Satan because it reflects the Hebrew title found in the Scriptures. Oftentimes, I may use the word adversary in its place if the context dictates. 

Understanding that Satan means adversary or accuser helps us appreciate his role throughout the biblical narrative. From the beginning, he is portrayed as one who opposes the purposes of the Most High Elohim, accuses His people, and seeks to lead mankind away from the truth. 

Recognizing the meaning of the word reminds us that the greatest defense against deception is to know and obey the Word of Elohim. 

Pronunciation 

Satan is commonly pronounced SAY-tən in English. 

The Hebrew pronunciation is approximately sah-TAHN, with the emphasis on the second syllable. 

Key Passages 

• Numbers 22:22  

• 1 Chronicles 21:1  

• Job 1:6–12  

• Job 2:1–7  

• Zechariah 3:1–2  

• Matthew 4:1–11  

• Revelation 12:9 

 

Angel 

Language 

English 

Derived From 

The English word angel most commonly translates the Hebrew word מַלְאָךְ (Mal'akh) and the Greek word ἄγγελος (Angelos). 

Strong's Numbers 

Hebrew: H4397 (מַלְאָךְ – Mal'akh) 

Greek: G32 (ἄγγελος – Angelos) 

Meaning 

The Hebrew word מַלְאָךְ (Mal'akh) literally means messenger or one who is sent. 

Likewise, the Greek word ἄγγελος (Angelos) also means messenger. 

Throughout the Scriptures, the word may refer to: 

• A human messenger.  

• A messenger sent by a king.  

• A messenger sent by Elohim.  

• A heavenly messenger who carries out the will of Elohim.  

The context determines whether the messenger is human or heavenly. 

Although English Bibles usually translate the word as angel when referring to heavenly beings and messenger when referring to human beings, the original Hebrew and Greek words are the same. 

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I will typically use the word messenger rather than angel, when I wish to emphasize that the Scriptures are describing a messenger rather than identifying a particular kind of being. 

Understanding this helps us read many passages more carefully. The emphasis is often not on what the messenger is, but on Whom the messenger represents and the message being delivered. 

Pronunciation 

Mal'akh is commonly pronounced mal-AHKH. 

The final sound is produced in the throat, similar to the "ch" in the German word Bach or the Scottish word loch. 

Key Passages 

• Genesis 16:7–13  

• Genesis 22:11–18  

• Exodus 23:20–23  

• Numbers 20:16  

• Judges 6:11–24  

• Malachi 2:7  

• Matthew 1:20  

• Luke 1:26–38  

• Hebrews 1:13–14 

 

Israel 

Language 

Hebrew 

Strong's Number 

H3478 

Meaning 

יִשְׂרָאֵל (Yisra'el) is the name given by Elohim to Jacob after he wrestled with the Messenger of Elohim. 

"Your name is no longer called Jacob, but Israel, because you have striven with Elohim and with men, and have overcome." (Genesis 32:28) 

The name is commonly understood to mean "He struggles with Elohim," "One who strives with Elohim," or "Elohim prevails." While scholars differ slightly on its precise nuance, the name is rooted in Jacob's encounter with Elohim and marks a turning point in his life. 

Throughout the Scriptures, Israel may refer to: 

• Jacob himself.  

• The descendants of Jacob.  

• The twelve tribes collectively.  

• The covenant people of Elohim.  

• The northern kingdom after the kingdom was divided.  

• The land promised Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  

The context determines which meaning is intended. 

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I use the word Yisrael according to its biblical context rather than assuming it always refers to the modern nation. 

When studying the Scriptures, it is important to recognize whether a passage is speaking about Jacob, the twelve tribes, the covenant people, the northern kingdom, or the land itself. Reading the context carefully often prevents misunderstanding and helps us appreciate the continuity of our Almighty Creator's dealings with His people throughout the Tanakh and the Apostolic Writings. 

Pronunciation 

Yisra'el is commonly pronounced yis-rah-EL. 

In English it is usually pronounced IZ-ray-el. 

Key Passages 

• Genesis 32:24–30  

• Genesis 35:9–12  

• Exodus 19:3–6  

• Deuteronomy 7:6  

• Isaiah 41:8–10  

• Romans 9:6  

• Romans 11:1–29 

 

Gentile 

Language 

English 

Derived From 

The English word Gentile is used to translate several Hebrew and Greek terms depending on context, most commonly: 

• Hebrew: גּוֹי (Goy) — Strong’s H1471  

• Greek: ἔθνος (Ethnos) — Strong’s G1484  

Meaning 

The Hebrew word גּוֹי (Goy) and the Greek word ἔθνος (Ethnos) both have a broad meaning that refers to a nation, people group, or ethnic group. 

In Scripture, these words can refer to: 

• The nations of the world in general.  

• Any ethnic group, including Israel.  

• Foreign nations distinct from Israel (depending on context).  

• Sometimes, specifically non-Israelite peoples (as translated by English tradition as “Gentiles”).  

Importantly, the word itself does not inherently mean “non-Jew” or “non-Israelite.” It simply means nation or people. The context determines how it is being used. 

For example: 

• Israel is called a goy (nation) in Genesis 12:3 and Exodus 19:6.  

• The “nations” (goyim) often refers to surrounding peoples in contrast to Israel.  

• In the Apostolic Writings, ethnos can refer broadly to all nations, including Israel in some contexts.  

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I am careful with the word Gentile, because it can sometimes suggest a strict division between two groups that the Scriptures do not always define in that way. 

Where appropriate, I prefer to use the original term “nations” to reflect the broader meaning found in the Scriptures. 

This helps readers recognize that Scripture often speaks in terms of nations and covenant identity, rather than the modern religious categories that developed later. 

Pronunciation 

• Goy — pronounced like “goi”  

• Goyim — goh-YEEM (plural)  

• Ethnos — ETH-nos  

Key Passages 

• Genesis 12:2–3  

• Exodus 19:5–6  

• Isaiah 42:6  

• Isaiah 49:6  

• Matthew 28:19  

• Romans 11:11–25  

• Ephesians 2:11–19 

 

Covenant 

Language 

English 

Derived From 

The English word covenant most commonly translates the Hebrew word: 

• בְּרִית (Berit) — Strong’s H1285  

In the Apostolic Writings, it is also associated with the Greek word: 

• διαθήκη (Diathēkē) — Strong’s G1242  

Meaning 

In the Scriptures, a covenant is a binding agreement or relational bond established between Elohim and people, or between individuals, that defines relationship, responsibility, and promise. 

Unlike modern contracts that are often temporary and transactional, a biblical covenant is deeply relational and often involves: 

• Promises and commitments  

• Conditions or obligations  

• Blessings for faithfulness  

• Consequences for breaking the covenant  

• A shared identity between the parties  

 

Depending on context, covenant may refer to: 

• The covenant with Noah (Genesis 9)  

• The covenant with Abraham (Genesis 12, 15, 17)  

• The covenant at Sinai through Moses (Exodus 19–24)  

• The covenant with David (2 Samuel 7)  

• The promised “new/renewed covenant” spoken of by the prophets (Jeremiah 31:31–34)  

• The covenant established through Messiah in the Apostolic Writings  

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I use the word covenant because it is central to understanding the entire message of the Scriptures. 

The relationship between YHWH our Elohim and His people is not presented as a distant legal arrangement, but as a binding covenant relationship rooted in loyalty, trust, and obedience. 

Understanding covenant helps us see that the Scriptures are not simply a collection of rules or teachings, but the unfolding story of Elohim establishing, maintaining, and restoring His covenant with His people. 

For this reason, when I refer to faith, obedience, or salvation throughout this website, I do so within the context of covenant relationship with YHWH our Elohim. 

Pronunciation 

Berit — beh-REET 
Diathēkē — dee-ah-THEH-kay 

Key Passages 

• Genesis 6:18  

• Genesis 15:18  

• Genesis 17:7–8  

• Exodus 19:5–8  

• Exodus 24:7–8  

• Deuteronomy 7:9  

• 2 Samuel 7:12–16  

• Jeremiah 31:31–34  

• Luke 22:20  

• Hebrews 8:6–13 

 

Lawlessness 

Language 

English 

Derived From 

The English word lawlessness most commonly translates the Greek word: 

• ἀνομία (Anomia) — Strong's G458  

Meaning 

The Greek word ἀνομία (Anomia) literally means without law, lawlessness, or disregard for law. 

The word is formed from: 

• a- — "without"  

• nomos — "law"  

In the Scriptures, lawlessness refers to living in disregard of the instruction of Elohim. It describes a pattern of rebellion against His will rather than simply breaking human laws. 

The clearest biblical definition is found in the Apostolic Writings: 

"Everyone doing sin also does lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness." (1 John 3:4) 

This verse shows the close relationship between sin and lawlessness. Lawlessness is not merely the absence of rules; it is living contrary to the revealed instruction of Elohim. 

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I use the word lawlessness as it is defined by Scripture itself. 

Modern culture often views lawlessness as simply breaking civil laws or rejecting authority. While that may be true in some contexts, the Scriptures speak primarily of rejecting the instruction and authority of Elohim. 

Understanding this word helps us appreciate why Master Yehoshua repeatedly called His followers to obedience, and why the apostles warned against lives characterized by lawlessness. 

A Note on Translation 

Many modern English translations render ἀνομία (Anomia) as iniquity or wickednes in certain passages rather than lawlessness. While each translation reflects an attempt to communicate the meaning of the passage, using different English words can make it more difficult for readers to recognize that the same Greek word is being used throughout the Apostolic Writings. 

Throughout this website I generally prefer the translation lawlessness because it preserves the connection to the original Greek word and allows readers to more easily trace this theme throughout the Scriptures. 

 

Pronunciation 

Anomia is commonly pronounced ah-noh-MEE-ah. 

Key Passages 

• Isaiah 5:20–24  

• Matthew 7:21–23  

• Matthew 13:41  

• Matthew 24:12  

• Romans 6:19  

• 2 Thessalonians 2:3–8  

• Titus 2:11–14  

• Hebrews 1:9  

• 1 John 3:4 

 

Righteousness 

Language 

English 

Derived From 

The English word righteousness most commonly translates: 

• Hebrew: צְדָקָה (Tzedakah) — Strong's H6666  

• Hebrew: צַדִּיק (Tzaddiq) — Strong's H6662 (righteous; just)  

• Greek: δικαιοσύνη (Dikaiosynē) — Strong's G1343  

Meaning 

In the Scriptures, righteousness refers to living in a manner that is right, just, and upright according to the character and instruction of our Elohim. 

Righteousness is not merely an inward feeling or moral quality. It is demonstrated by faithful obedience, justice, mercy, integrity, and walking in the ways that Elohim has revealed. 

The Scriptures themselves provide a clear definition: 

(Deut 6:25 [TS2009]) 

And it is righteousness for us when we guard to do all this command before יהוה our Elohim, as He has commanded us.’ 

 This does not mean righteousness is earned by human effort. Rather, righteous living is the fruit of trusting YHWH our Elohim and walking according to His instruction. 

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I use the word righteousness according to its biblical meaning rather than simply as a religious term. 

The Scriptures consistently connect righteousness with living faithfully before Elohim. It is seen in how we treat others, how we obey His instruction, and how we walk in covenant relationship with Him. 

Understanding righteousness in this way helps us see that faith and obedience are not opposing ideas but are intended to work together throughout the Scriptures. 

Common Misunderstanding 

One might believe righteousness to mean simply being a good person. 

The Scriptures present a fuller picture. Righteousness is living in right relationship with Almighty Elohim by trusting Him and walking according to His revealed instruction. It is both a matter of the heart and a way of life that is evident in our actions. 

(Ps 119:172 [TS2009]) 

My tongue sings of Your word, For all Your commands are righteousness. 

Pronunciation 

• Tzedakah — tsed-ah-KAH  

• Tzaddiq — tsad-DEEK  

• Dikaiosynē — dik-eye-oh-SOO-nay  

Key Passages 

• Genesis 15:6  

• Deuteronomy 6:25  

• Psalm 119:172  

• Proverbs 21:3  

• Isaiah 56:1  

• Matthew 5:6  

• Matthew 6:33  

• Romans 3:21–26  

• Philippians 3:9  

• James 2:21–24 

 

Gospel 

Language 

English 

Derived From 

The English word gospel most commonly translates the Greek word: 

• εὐαγγέλιον (Euangelion) — Strong's G2098  

The Greek word literally means good news, good message, or good tidings. 

Meaning 

In the Scriptures, the word gospel simply means good news. 

The good news proclaimed by Master Yehoshua and His apostles is the announcement that the Kingdom of Elohim has drawn near and that Elohim has fulfilled His promises through His Messiah. Through repentance, faith, and covenant relationship with Him, people are called to enter His Kingdom. 

Depending on the context, the gospel may emphasize: 

• The coming of the Kingdom of Elohim.  

• The fulfillment of the promises made in the Tanakh.  

• The death, burial, and resurrection of Messiah.  

• Forgiveness of sins.  

• The hope of resurrection and eternal life.  

These are not different gospels, but different aspects of the same good news. 

If Master Yehoshua proclaimed the Good News before His death and resurrection (Mark 1:14–15), what exactly was the Good News He was proclaiming? Also, see Hebrews 4:2. 

Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I use the words good news rather than the gospel. 

The gospel is more than a message about what happens after death. It is the good news that Elohim is fulfilling His covenant promises through the Messiah, calling people to repentance, reconciliation, and faithful obedience as citizens of His Kingdom. 

Understanding the gospel within the larger story of the Scriptures helps us see that it did not begin in the Apostolic Writings but was promised throughout the Tanakh and proclaimed in its fulfillment through Master Yehoshua. 

Pronunciation 

Euangelion is commonly pronounced yoo-an-GEL-ee-on. 

Key Passages 

• Isaiah 52:7  

• Isaiah 61:1  

• Mark 1:14–15  

• Luke 4:16–21  

• Romans 1:1–4  

• 1 Corinthians 15:1–4  

• Revelation 14:6–7 

 

Knowledge 

Language 

English 

Derived From 

The English word knowledge most commonly translates: 

• Hebrew: דַּעַת (Da'at) — Strong's H1847  

• Hebrew verb: יָדַע (Yada) — Strong's H3045 ("to know")  

• Greek: γνῶσις (Gnōsis) — Strong's G1108  

Meaning 

In the Scriptures, knowledge is far more than the accumulation of facts or information. 

The Hebrew word דַּעַת (Da'at) refers to knowledge, understanding gained through experience, and recognition of truth. 

It is closely related to the verb יָדַע (Yada), meaning to know. This word often describes a deep, personal, and experiential knowledge. For example, the Scriptures use yada to describe the intimate relationship between husband and wife, illustrating that biblical knowledge is relational rather than merely intellectual. 

(Jer 9:23 [TS2009]) 

Thus said יהוה, “Let not the wise boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty boast in his might, nor let the rich boast in his riches, 

  (Jer 9:24 [TS2009]) 

but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am יהוה, doing loving-commitment, right-ruling, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight,” declares יהוה. 

When I read  Jeremiah 9:23-24, I discover that not only does Almighty YHWH want us to gain knowledge of Him, but He wants us to gain an intimate knowledge of Him. He wants us to know Him, and what He does. “He does loving-commitment (kindness), right-ruling, and righteousness.” 

 Why I Use This Word 

Throughout this website I encourage readers to seek knowledge, but not merely the accumulation of biblical facts. 

The goal of studying the Scriptures is to know Elohim more deeply, to understand His character, and to walk according to His instruction. 

Knowledge that does not lead to humility, obedience, and love falls short of the purpose for which Elohim reveals Himself. 

Pronunciation 

• Da'at — dah-AHT  

• Yada — yah-DAH  

• Gnōsis — NO-sis (the "g" is silent)  

Key Passages 

• Proverbs 1:7  

• Proverbs 2:1–6  

• Hosea 4:6  

• Jeremiah 9:23–24  

• Daniel 12:4  

• John 17:3  

• Romans 11:33  

• Colossians 1:9–10  

• 2 Peter 1:2–8