properly, the inner bark of the papyrus plant, i.e. (by implication) a sheet or scroll of writing:--book.
Transliteration:bíblos
Pronunciation:bib'-los
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun βίβλος (bíblos, `{{G976}}`) originates from the material used for writing in ancient times. Its literal root refers to the inner bark of the papyrus plant, specifically the fibrous material from which writing sheets were produced. From this foundational meaning, the term evolved by metonymy to denote the writing material itself, then a single sheet, and subsequently a scroll or a collection of sheets bound together, hence a "book." The semantic range therefore extends from the raw plant material to the finished product, a written document. It encapsulates the idea of a record, an account, a scroll, or a complete volume of written work. This word is the direct etymological ancestor of the English word "Bible," signifying its profound connection to the sacred scriptures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
βίβλος appears in the New Testament primarily to refer to a written document or a collection of writings. In [[Matthew 1:1]], the phrase "βίβλος γενέσεως Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ" (book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ) signifies an account or record of origin. Here, βίβλος functions as a title for the ensuing narrative, emphasizing its nature as a formal record.
In [[Luke 3:4]], it refers to the "βίβλος λόγων Ἠσαΐου τοῦ προφήτου" (book of the words of Isaiah the prophet), clearly identifying a prophetic scroll or volume. Similarly, [[Acts 7:42]] speaks of the "βίβλῳ τῶν προφητῶν" (book of the prophets), a collection of prophetic writings. The usage in [[Acts 19:19]], where many who practiced magic brought their "βίβλους" (books) and burned them, illustrates its use for various types of written material, including those considered illicit or pagan.
The most profound theological use of βίβλος occurs in the Book of Revelation. Here, it is frequently used to denote divine records. Examples include the "βίβλος" (scroll/book) with seven seals in [[Revelation 5:1]], which represents God's sovereign plan and judgment. The "βίβλος ζωῆς" (book of life) in [[Revelation 20:12]] and [[Revelation 22:19]] signifies God's eternal record of those who are saved. The opening of "βίβλοι" (books) at the final judgment in [[Revelation 20:12]] represents the divine record of human deeds, by which all will be judged. These contexts highlight βίβλος as a container of divine truth, prophecy, decree, and judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
βίβλος (bíblos, `{{G976}}`) is closely related to its diminutive form, βιβλίον (biblíon, `{{G975}}`), which also means "book" or "scroll" and is often used interchangeably, particularly in the Septuagint and New Testament. Another related term is βιβλίδιον (biblídion, `{{G974}}`), an even smaller book or scroll, famously used in [[Revelation 10:2]] for the "little scroll" eaten by John.
Conceptually, βίβλος is intertwined with the act of writing (γράφω, gráphō, `{{G1125}}`) and the concept of a written record or document. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew equivalent is סֵפֶר (sepher, `{{H5612}}`), which also denotes a scroll, letter, or book, and is frequently translated by βίβλος in the Septuagint. The "Book of the Law" (βίβλος τοῦ νόμου) or "Book of Moses" (βίβλος Μωϋσέως) are significant concepts referring to the Pentateuch, emphasizing the written nature of divine revelation. The "Book of Life" (βίβλος ζωῆς) is a recurring motif across both testaments, representing God's sovereign election and the destiny of the redeemed.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of βίβλος is immense, as it serves as the primary medium for divine revelation. The Scriptures themselves are often referred to as "the Book," signifying their unique status as God's inspired and authoritative Word. The existence of a written revelation underscores God's desire to communicate clearly and permanently with humanity, providing an unchanging standard for truth, morality, and salvation.
The "Book of Life" highlights God's omniscience and sovereign plan for salvation, wherein the names of the redeemed are eternally recorded. This concept brings comfort to believers and underscores the certainty of their salvation. Conversely, the "books" opened at the final judgment emphasize God's perfect justice and detailed knowledge of every human deed, ensuring accountability.
The imagery of a "book" or "scroll" also conveys the unfolding of God's redemptive plan throughout history, as seen in the sealed scroll of Revelation. It suggests a divine narrative, purposeful and pre-ordained, leading to a climactic fulfillment. The very act of God revealing Himself through written form speaks to His orderly nature and His desire for humanity to possess an objective, accessible, and enduring truth.
### Summary
βίβλος (bíblos, `{{G976}}`) fundamentally refers to a "book" or "scroll," deriving its meaning from the papyrus plant used for ancient writing materials. In the New Testament, it consistently denotes a written document, ranging from a genealogical record in [[Matthew 1:1]] to prophetic volumes in [[Luke 3:4]] and [[Acts 7:42]]. Most profoundly, in the Book of Revelation, βίβλος is employed to describe divine records such as the "book of life" ([[Revelation 20:12]]) and the books of judgment ([[Revelation 20:12]]), representing God's sovereign plan, election, and justice. Its close relation to βιβλίον (biblíon, `{{G975}}`) and its role as the root for the word "Bible" underscore its significance as the vehicle for God's enduring and authoritative written revelation. Theologically, βίβλος signifies the permanence and clarity of God's communication, the certainty of His divine records, and the unfolding of His redemptive purposes.
TRV