A List of 101 Hard Words in the Bible

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My middle school year was when I started reading the Bible on my own. I quickly realized there are hard words in the bible.

Years later, when I was in college, I enthusiastically read through the Bible on my cover-to-cover. It was the first time I truly soaked in the beautiful and mesmerizing story of God’s people.

This blog is what I wish I had when I was younger. I’ve compiled 101 hard words in the Bible to sort through and provide quick answers. Browse the table of contents and never feel stumped again!

Studying through God's Word

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    21 Theological Doctrinal Terms

    Let’s turn these challenges into stepping stones toward a profound understanding of God’s word, particularly during those tougher moments.

    As I’ve dedicated my life to learning more of God’s word, I recognize the seasons when I was not as diligent to studying on my own. Several factors played a part, one of them was the roadblocks I ran into because I did not understand everything I read.

    Here are some hard words in the Bible that deal with theology. Understanding these words will help you in your study sessions.

    1. Holy Spirit

    The Holy Spirit, often referred to as the Holy Ghost, is the third person of the Holy Trinity in Christian theology. It is God’s presence and power at work in the world and in the lives of believers. The Holy Spirit’s role includes guiding, comforting, and empowering Christians.

    2. Grace

    Grace is God’s unmerited favor and kindness towards humanity. It is the foundational concept of salvation in Christianity, emphasizing that eternal life is a gift from God and cannot be earned through human efforts.

    3. Righteousness of God

    The righteousness of God refers to God’s perfect moral and ethical character. It signifies His holiness and purity, contrasting with human sinfulness. Through faith in Christ, believers are considered righteous before God.

    4. New Covenant

    The New Covenant is a central theological concept in the Bible, representing the new relationship between God and humanity through Jesus Christ. It replaces the Old Covenant, emphasizing forgiveness, grace, and a personal relationship with God.

    5. Wrathful Man Stirreth

    This phrase is found in Proverbs 15:1 (KJV) and highlights the power of a gentle response in diffusing anger and conflict. It underscores the importance of wise and gracious words.

    6. Bread of Life

    In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the “Bread of Life” in John 6:35. This term signifies that Jesus is the spiritual sustenance for believers, providing eternal life through faith in Him.

    7. Living Sacrifice

    In Romans 12:1, Paul encourages believers to present themselves as “living sacrifices.” This concept signifies a life wholly dedicated to God’s service, offering oneself as a sacrifice for His purposes.

    8. Heavenly Father

    Jesus frequently referred to God as “Heavenly Father” or “Our Father” in His teachings. It signifies the intimate relationship believers have with God as their loving and caring Father.

    9. New Testament

    The New Testament is the second part of the Christian Bible, consisting of books written after the life of Jesus Christ. It contains the teachings, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, as well as early Christian history and theology.

    10. Wrath of God

    The “wrath of God” refers to God’s righteous anger and judgment against sin. It is a recurring theme in the Bible, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the need for salvation through Christ.

    Hard words in the Bible

    11. Tree of Life

    The “Tree of Life” is a symbol found in both the Old and New Testaments, representing eternal life and access to God’s presence. It is first mentioned in Genesis and appears again in the book of Revelation.

    12. Apostle Peter

    Apostle Peter, also known as Saint Peter, was one of Jesus’ twelve disciples and a prominent figure in early Christianity. His writings and teachings are found in the New Testament, offering valuable insights into Christian doctrine.

    13. King James Version

    The King James Version (KJV) of the Bible is a widely recognized English translation known for its literary excellence. It has had a significant influence on English literature and Christian theology.

    14. Hard Saying

    Hard sayings in the Bible refer to passages or teachings that are challenging to understand or accept. These passages often require deeper study and interpretation.

    15. Eternal Life

    Eternal life is a central theme in the Bible, signifying the gift of everlasting life through faith in Jesus Christ. It is contrasted with spiritual death and separation from God.

    16. Apostle Paul

    Apostle Paul, also known as Saint Paul, played a crucial role in spreading Christianity throughout the ancient world. His letters (epistles) make up a significant portion of the New Testament.

    17. Red-Letter Day

    “Red-letter day” is a phrase used to describe a significant or memorable day, often referring to important events or moments in the Bible, especially those featuring the words and teachings of Jesus in red-letter editions of the Bible.

    18. Word of God

    The “Word of God” encompasses both the written Scriptures (the Bible) and the living Word, Jesus Christ. It is a foundational concept in Christian faith and doctrine.

    19. Gentile Believers

    Gentile believers are non-Jewish individuals who embraced Christianity. The inclusion of Gentiles in the early church was a significant theological development.

    20. Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil

    Found in the Garden of Eden, this tree symbolizes the choice between obedience and disobedience to God’s command. It plays a crucial role in the narrative of human sin and God’s plan for redemption.

    21. Abrahamic Covenant

    The covenant established by God with Abraham, promising to make him the father of many nations. This covenant is significant in understanding God’s plan for salvation and the lineage of Jesus Christ.

    In this section, we’ve explored theological and doctrinal terms that are essential for a deeper understanding of Christian beliefs and the Bible’s teachings.

    These terms encompass concepts such as the Holy Spirit, grace, righteousness of God, the New Covenant, and more, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Christian theology.


    Reading God's Word

    19 Biblical Names and Places

    The Bible is filled with names and places that may pose pronunciation challenges for readers. Understanding the historical and geographical context of these names can enhance our appreciation of biblical narratives.

    Here are twenty such hard words in the Bible:

    22. Melchizedek

    Melchizedek, mentioned in the book of Genesis, is a mysterious figure and the king of Salem. He meets Abraham and is described as both a priest and a king. His name, Melchizedek, can be challenging to pronounce, but his significance in biblical history is profound.

    23. Mephibosheth

    Mephibosheth, found in the Old Testament, is Jonathan’s son and King Saul’s grandson. His name is a tongue-twister, but his story showcases themes of loyalty and kindness, as he is shown favor by King David.

    24. Zerubbabel

    Zerubbabel was a leader during the Babylonian exile and played a crucial role in the rebuilding of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem. Pronouncing “Zerubbabel” may require some practice, but his contributions to the restoration of the temple are significant.

    24. Nebuchadnezzar

    King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon is a well-known figure in the Bible, particularly in the book of Daniel. His name’s complexity may challenge readers, but his reign and interactions with biblical characters are essential to biblical narratives.

    25. Philemon

    Philemon is the recipient of one of Paul’s letters in the New Testament. While not as challenging as some names, it is still important to pronounce it correctly to understand the context of the letter and its message of forgiveness and reconciliation.

    26. Zephaniah

    Zephaniah is one of the Minor Prophets in the Old Testament. His name may be unfamiliar to many, but his prophetic message of judgment and hope is worth exploring.

    27. Damaris

    Damaris is mentioned in the book of Acts as a woman who listened to Paul’s preaching in Athens and became a believer. Her name is less common in modern times, but her conversion is a testament to the power of the gospel.

    28. Ephesus

    Ephesus was a prominent city in the ancient world and is mentioned in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Ephesians. Understanding the historical and geographical context of Ephesus enhances our comprehension of the biblical text.

    29. Tyre

    Tyre is an ancient Phoenician city mentioned in the Bible, notably in the prophecies of Ezekiel. Its name might be unfamiliar to some, but its historical significance is worth exploring.

    30. Balaam

    Balaam, found in the Old Testament, is known for his interactions with a talking donkey. His name may be challenging to pronounce, but his story raises important theological and moral questions.

    31. Beersheba

    Beersheba holds historical significance in the Old Testament and is closely linked to Abraham and Isaac. In modern terms, it could be likened to a well-known landmark or historical well, preserving its cultural and biblical heritage.

    32. Canaan

    Canaan, a land promised to Abraham’s descendants, carries profound meaning in the Bible. Today, it represents a region with historical and biblical importance, encapsulating the promises and narratives of ancient times.

    33. Ichabod

    Ichabod, the son of Phinehas in the Old Testament, symbolizes the departure of God’s glory. In a modern context, the name Ichabod retains historical biblical connotations, serving as a reminder of significant narratives.

    34. Jezreel

    Jezreel, an ancient city in Israel, plays a crucial role in biblical narratives. Its modern equivalent would be a historical city with ties to biblical events, preserving the tales of the past.

    35. Zion

    Zion, often used to denote Jerusalem, carries spiritual and symbolic significance. In contemporary terms, it remains a term with religious and historical connotations, representing a rich tapestry of cultural heritage.

    36. Hezekiah

    Hezekiah, a king of Judah known for religious reforms and interactions with the Assyrians, is a figure of biblical importance. In the modern context, Hezekiah represents a historical figure with profound biblical significance.

    37. Horeb

    Horeb, an alternative name for Mount Sinai, holds great importance in the Bible. In today’s context, Horeb is a mountain with religious and historical significance, connecting the present to biblical narratives.

    38. Ophir

    Ophir, a region known for its wealth and resources in the Bible, maintains its historical significance. In modern terms, Ophir refers to a historical region associated with biblical narratives, echoing tales of prosperity.

    39. Bethel

    Bethel, a place in the Old Testament linked to Jacob’s vision of a ladder, carries biblical and historical connections. In contemporary language, Bethel remains a location with ties to biblical narratives and historical richness.

    40. Judea

    Judea, a historical region encompassing Bethlehem and Jerusalem, holds biblical significance. Today, Judea represents a region with religious and historical importance, preserving its cultural and biblical heritage.

    Exploring these biblical names and places may require some linguistic effort, but it enriches our understanding of the Bible’s historical, geographical, and narrative contexts.

    These names can be hard words in the Bible and more than just tongue twisters; they are integral to biblical storytelling.


    Read the Bible on a regular basis

    20 Outdated Language and Idioms

    Unraveling the archaic language and idioms within the Bible enriches the comprehension of its profound messages.

    Clarifying what these outdated hard words in the Bible are and their modern equivalent can help you know what God may be teaching you better.

    Here’s a list of 20 selected terms, offering explanations and modern equivalents:

    41. King James Version (KJV)

    Meaning: The esteemed English translation of the Bible.
    Modern Equivalent: Contemporary Bible translations like NIV or ESV.

    42. Outdated Pronouns (ex. thou, thee, thy)

    Meaning: Outdated pronouns.
    Modern Equivalent: You, your.

    43. Red-Letter Day

    Meaning: Denoting significant events.
    Modern Equivalent: A day of great importance.

    44. Read Guard

    Meaning: Symbolizing God’s protective presence.
    Modern Equivalent: A safeguard or protector.

    45. Stringed Instrument (ex. harp, lyre)

    Meaning: Musical instruments are mentioned in biblical contexts.
    Modern Equivalent: Contemporary musical instruments.

    46. First Line

    Meaning: The opening line of biblical books.
    Modern Equivalent: The initial statement or introduction.

    47. New Covenant

    Meaning: God’s promise of salvation through Jesus Christ.
    Modern Equivalent: A renewed or updated agreement.

    48. Wrathful Man Stirreth

    Meaning: Consequences of anger.
    Modern Equivalent: An angry person causes trouble.

    49. Living Sacrifice

    Meaning: Metaphor for devotion and consecration.
    Modern Equivalent: Wholehearted dedication.

    50. Right Hard of the Throne of God

    Meaning: Symbolizing a position of honor and authority.
    Modern Equivalent: A place of high status.

    51. Tree of Life

    Meaning: A symbol of eternal life in the Bible.
    Modern Equivalent: Representation of everlasting life.

    52. Soft Answer

    Meaning: Responding with gentleness.
    Modern Equivalent: A calm and gentle response.

    53. Hard Saying

    Meaning: Difficult or challenging teachings.
    Modern Equivalent: Complex or profound teachings.

    54. Good News

    Meaning: The Gospel or positive message.
    Modern Equivalent: Positive and uplifting information.

    55. Eternal Life

    Meaning: Everlasting life through faith.
    Modern Equivalent: Life that lasts forever through belief in Christ.

    56. Essential Ingredients

    Meaning: Fundamental components.
    Modern Equivalent: Basic elements or necessary parts.

    57. Soft Word

    Meaning: Speaking with kindness.
    Modern Equivalent: Gentle and compassionate speech.

    58. Rear Guard

    Meaning: Symbolizing God’s protective presence.
    Modern Equivalent: A safeguard or protector.

    59. Second Reader

    Meaning: Referring to a reader in the Christian Science church.
    Modern Equivalent: A person reading religious texts or scriptures.

    60. Appeaseth Strife

    Meaning: Calming or pacifying conflict.
    Modern Equivalent: Settling disputes or resolving disagreements.

    Exploring these linguistic nuances bridges the gap between ancient expressions and contemporary interpretations, fostering a deeper understanding of biblical narratives.

    You don’t have to let these hard words in the Bible stump you, continue with me as I share even more terms that can equip you to understand what you are reading in the Bible.


    There are hard words in the Bible

    22 Rare and Unique Words within Bible Verses

    Exploring the Bible presents unique and meaningful words. Some of these words are rare which makes the the Bible a bit stuffy and not motivating to read.

    In this list, we’ve gathered 20 of these terms, providing definitions, biblical examples, and insights into their cultural and historical contexts.

    61. Harsh Word

    Definition: A severe or unkind expression.
    Example: Proverbs 15:1 encourages a soft answer that turns away wrath.

    62. Heavenly Father

    Definition: Referring to God as a loving and divine parent.
    Example: Jesus often addressed God as “Heavenly Father” in prayers.

    63. Bread of Life

    Definition: Symbolizing spiritual sustenance.
    Example: Jesus proclaimed Himself as the “Bread of Life” in John 6:35.

    64. Grievous Words

    Definition: Words causing distress or sorrow.
    Example: Proverbs 15:1 warns against grievous words that crush the spirit.

    65. Tree of Life

    Definition: A symbol of eternal life.
    Example: Found in Genesis, representing the tree in the Garden of Eden.

    66. Essential Ingredients

    Definition: Fundamental components.
    Example: The Bible describes faith and love as essential ingredients (1 Corinthians 13:13).

    67. Soft Word

    Definition: A gentle or kind expression.
    Example: Proverbs 15:1 contrasts soft words with harsh ones.

    68. Read Guard

    Definition: Protective or defensive presence.
    Example: Isaiah 52:12 speaks of the Lord being the rear guard of His people.

    69. Appeaseth Strife

    Definition: Calming or pacifying conflict.
    Example: Proverbs 15:1 states that a soft answer appeases strife.

    70. Good Idea

    Definition: A beneficial or wise thought.
    Example: The Bible is filled with good ideas for righteous living.

    71. Glory of God

    Definition: The radiant splendor of God’s presence.
    Example: Exodus 24:16 describes the glory of the Lord on Mount Sinai.

    72. Tongue of the Wise Brings

    Definition: The impactful speech of wise individuals.
    Example: Proverbs 15:2 highlights how the tongue of the wise brings knowledge.

    73. Eternal Life

    Definition: Unending life granted through faith.
    Example: John 3:16 promises eternal life to those who believe in Christ.

    74. Red-Letter Day

    Definition: A day of significant events or importance.
    Example: Any day with profound spiritual experiences can be considered a red-letter day.

    75. Wrathful Man Stirreth

    Definition: An angry person causing trouble.
    Example: Proverbs 15:18 warns that a wrathful man stirs up strife.

    76. Stringed Instrument

    Definition: Musical instruments mentioned in biblical contexts.
    Example: Psalm 150 includes stringed instruments in praising God.

    77. Gentle Tongue

    Definition: Speaking with kindness and gentleness.
    Example: Proverbs 15:4

    78. Hot-Tempered Man

    Definition: A person prone to anger or quick temper.
    Example: Proverbs 15:18 cautions against a hot-tempered man stirring up strife.

    79. College Students

    Definition: Individuals pursuing higher education.
    Example: Various biblical principles can guide college students in their studies and life choices.

    80. First Line

    Definition: The beginning or initial part of a text.
    Example: Matthew 4:4 quotes Jesus stating, “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.

    81. Bebemoth

    Meaning: A colossal and powerful creature mentioned in the book of Job, representing a symbol of strength.
    Bible Verse: Job 40:15-24 (Job’s description of Behemoth).

    82. Cassia

    Meaning: An aromatic spice mentioned in the Bible, often used in sacred anointing oils.
    Bible Verse: Exodus 30:24 (Instructions for making the holy anointing oil).

    Understanding rare and unique words in the Bible is crucial because it enhances comprehension of the nuanced meanings and cultural contexts embedded in the text, providing a more profound insight into the scriptures.


    God speaks to us through His Word

    20 Difficult Verses and Passages

    I’ve selected 20 more hard words in the Bible that are words commonly used amongst Christians. These words may cause pause and I want to explain each one.

    83. Hard Saying

    Matthew 19:24 presents the “hard saying” of Jesus about a rich man entering the kingdom of heaven.

    84. Heavenly Father

    The term “Heavenly Father” is used in Matthew 6:9, emphasizing God’s paternal relationship with believers.

    85. Wrathful Man Stirreth

    Proverbs 15:18 includes the phrase “wrathful man stirreth up strife,” conveying the consequences of anger.

    86. Stringed Instrument

    Psalm 150:4 mentions praising God with a “stringed instrument,” reflecting musical elements in worship.

    87. Red-Letter Day

    The phrase “red-letter day” symbolizes significant events, reflecting on memorable moments in biblical narratives.

    88. Tongue of the Wise Commends Knowledge

    Proverbs 15:2 speaks of the positive impact of the “tongue of the wise” in commending knowledge.

    89. Wise Words

    Proverbs 16:23 encourages the use of “wise words” that promote understanding and knowledge.

    90. Gentle Tongue

    Proverbs 15:1 highlights the value of a “gentle tongue” in easing conflict and promoting peace.

    91. Food Supplies

    In Genesis 41:35, the equation “food supplies” represents Joseph’s wise management during famine.

    92. Mouths of Fools

    Ecclesiastes 10:12 warns about the “mouths of fools,” emphasizing the consequences of foolish speech.

    93. Next Day

    Genesis 22:4 mentions Abraham and Isaac traveling to Mount Moriah the “next day” after receiving God’s command.

    94. Tax Collector

    Matthew, a tax collector, is called by Jesus in Matthew 9:9, illustrating God’s transformative power.

    95. Good Idea

    Proverbs 14:14 suggests that the “good idea” of the wise leads to satisfaction and reward.

    96. Greek Words

    Understanding the cultural context involves exploring “Greek words” in the New Testament.

    97. Old Testament

    Numerous challenging terms are found in the “Old Testament,” requiring careful study and interpretation.

    98. Tough Times

    The Bible addresses enduring faith during “tough times,” offering solace and guidance.

    99. Essential Ingredients

    Biblical narratives often contain “essential ingredients” that shape spiritual understanding.

    100. Righteousness of God

    Romans 3:22 discusses the “righteousness of God” through faith in Jesus Christ.

    101. Soft Word

    Proverbs 15:1 emphasizes the impact of a “soft word” in diffusing conflicts and promoting understanding.

    I hope this thorough list is helpful as you study or teach God’s Word. There can be hard words in the Bible but with the right tools and resources, you can feel confident and equipped to disciple others.


    Take advantage of the right tools to understand the hard words in the Bible

    Practical Tips for Studying Hard Words in the Bible

    Studying and memorizing hard words in the Bible can be a rewarding endeavor with the right strategies.

    To enhance your understanding, consider breaking down complex words into smaller components and understanding their root meanings. Take advantage of online resources and tools, such as lexicons, concordances, and language apps, to delve into the nuances of word meanings.

    Engage in group studies or discussions to gain different perspectives and insights. Embrace the learning process with patience, recognizing that it is okay to revisit words for better comprehension.

    By incorporating these practical tips into your study routine, you can navigate the intricate language of the Bible with confidence and deepen your appreciation for its profound messages.


    Take reading the whole Bible one day at a time

    Final Thoughts: A List of 101 Hard Words in the Bible

    As we conclude this list of 101 hard words, I encourage you to embrace the ongoing exploration of Scripture.

    Utilize additional resources to continue your Biblical studies and uncover the countless treasures concealed within its pages, particularly during challenging moments.

    We’ve covered theological terms, Biblical names, and places, shed light on outdated vocabulary, and surfaced rare terms that would be confusing.

    The comprehension of this list and the explanation of these hard words allows you to develop a heightened understanding of the historical, cultural, and doctrinal dimensions interwoven in the text.

    Happy studying!

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