### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **bíblos**, represented by `{{G976}}`, refers to a **book**, scroll, or sheet of writing, originating from the term for the inner bark of the papyrus plant. It appears 13 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible, signifying its role as a container of important records and divine text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G976}}` is used to denote both specific sacred writings and key theological concepts. It introduces the New Testament in "The **book** of the generation of Jesus Christ" [[Matthew 1:1]], establishing a record of lineage. It also refers to sections of the Old Testament, such as the "**book** of Moses" [[Mark 12:26]], the "**book** of Psalms" [[Luke 20:42]], and the "**book** of the prophets" [[Acts 7:42]]. A significant theological use is the "book of life," a divine register of those whose **names** are written for salvation ([[Philippians 4:3]], [[Revelation 13:8]]). In a literal sense, it described the **books** of "curious arts" that were brought together and burned by new converts in Ephesus [[Acts 19:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context and content of a `{{G976}}` **book**:
* `{{G975}}` **biblíon** (a roll): This diminutive of `bíblos` is often used for a scroll or book, as seen in the command to not add to "the words of the prophecy of this **book**" [[Revelation 22:18]].
* `{{G1125}}` **gráphō** (to write): This verb describes the action of creating the contents of a book. Its importance is seen in the recurring phrase "as it is **written** in the book" ([[Luke 3:4]], [[Acts 7:42]]).
* `{{G3056}}` **lógos** (word): This refers to the content within a book. Luke explicitly connects the two in the phrase "in the book of the **words** of Esaias the prophet" [[Luke 3:4]].
* `{{G2222}}` **zōḗ** (life): This is directly linked to `bíblos` through the critical concept of the "book of **life**," where being written determines one's eternal destiny [[Revelation 20:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G976}}` is centered on divine records and scriptural authority.
* **The Book of Life:** This is a recurring and vital concept, representing God's sovereign record of the redeemed. To have one's name written in this **book** is to be saved [[Revelation 20:15]], and Christ promises not to blot the overcomer's name from it [[Revelation 3:5]].
* **Scriptural Authority:** By referring to the "**book** of Moses" or the "**book** of the prophets," writers of the New Testament anchor their teachings in the established authority of existing scripture.
* **Prophetic Record:** The word is used to define a container of divine revelation, particularly in "the book of this prophecy" [[Revelation 22:19]], which carries a severe warning against altering its contents.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G976}}` transcends its literal meaning of a physical scroll. It functions as a vessel for sacred history, a reference for prophetic fulfillment, and a powerful symbol of God's sovereign record-keeping. Whether outlining the lineage of Christ, citing the established Law and Prophets, or representing the definitive book of life, **bíblos** signifies a text of ultimate importance and divine authority.
TRV