βίβλος (biblos)
biblos
book
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 10 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun biblos refers to a book or scroll, specifically evoking the physical object made from papyrus. In the New Testament, it appears in only ten verses, primarily within Acts and Revelation, as well as in Luke and Matthew. Its usage is distinct because it carries a connotation of sacredness and veneration that the more common diminutive biblion lacks.
Translators often render this word simply as "book," but its roots in the Egyptian papyrus plant suggest an object of value and permanence. It is notably used for the "book of life" in Philippians 4:3 and Revelation, highlighting its role in recording divine decrees. The term also appears in passages where Jesus cites Scripture or where early believers burn their magical scrolls, emphasizing the tangible authority of the written word.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word biblos points to a physical scroll or book, often made from papyrus. Unlike the common diminutive for 'book,' this term carries weight and permanence. It suggests something valuable, durable, and worthy of respect. When Scripture uses this specific word, it highlights the tangible authority of God's written word.
We see this reverence in passages like Revelation 3:5, where names are recorded in the book of life. This image offers deep comfort. It reminds us that our lives are known and held by God with care. The physical object becomes a symbol of divine memory and faithfulness.
In Acts 19:19, believers burned their magical scrolls, showing they valued truth over hidden power. This act demonstrates a shift from fear to freedom. We can trust that the words we read are not just ink on paper, but living guidance for our daily walk.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 10 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- book5×
- [the] book3×
- books1×
- [The] book1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- βίβλῳ7×
- βίβλους1×
- βίβλου1×
- Βίβλος1×
Key Verses
-
Revelation of John 3:5
He who overcomes will be arrayed in white garments, and I will in no way blot his name out of the book of life, and I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
This verse uses biblos to describe the book of life, emphasizing that God remembers and preserves the names of those who remain faithful.
-
Acts 19:19
Many of those who practiced magical arts brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. They counted their price, and found it to be fifty thousand pieces of silver.
Here, the burning of magical books shows a decisive break from occult practices, highlighting the superior value of the true Gospel.
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Matthew 1:1
The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.
The opening phrase identifies Jesus' lineage in a 'book,' establishing his historical roots and fulfilling ancient promises.
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Philippians 4:3
Yes, I beg you also, true partner, help these women, for they labored with me in the Good News with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Paul refers to fellow workers whose names are in the book of life, linking community service with eternal security.