Bible Meaning

Explore 266 biblical words and themes with Catholic explanations, arranged A–Z. Search by term or filter by category.

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Showing 266 of 266 biblical meanings

A

A (19)

Abba

Words

Father (intimate Aramaic)

Jesus’ address to the Father; gift of adoptive sonship in the Spirit.

Ref: Mk 14:36; Rom 8:15

Adoption

Themes

Being made children of God by grace

Baptismal dignity: heirs with Christ.

Ref: Rom 8:15–17; Gal 4:4–7

Adoration

Themes

Worship due to God alone

Latria; distinct from veneration of saints (dulia).

Ref: Mt 4:10; CCC 2096

Advocate

Words

Helper; one who intercedes

The Holy Spirit as Paraclete; Christ as advocate with the Father.

Ref: Jn 14:16; 1 Jn 2:1

Agape

Themes

Self-giving love

Divine charity; the new commandment.

Ref: Jn 13:34; 1 Cor 13

Alleluia

Words

Praise the Lord

Easter acclamation; omitted in Lent in the Roman Rite.

Ref: Ps 146–150; Rev 19:1

Almsgiving

Themes

Mercy shown in giving to the poor

With prayer and fasting, a pillar of conversion.

Ref: Tob 12:8–9; Mt 6:2–4

Alpha and Omega

Titles

First and last; beginning and end

Title of the eternal God and of Christ.

Ref: Rev 1:8; 22:13

Amen

Words

So be it; truly

Seals prayer and faith; Jesus is the Amen.

Ref: CCC 1061–1065; Rev 3:14

Anamnesis

Themes

Memorial; making present

Eucharistic remembrance of Christ’s Passion.

Ref: Lk 22:19; 1 Cor 11:24–26

Angel

Words

Messenger

Pure spirit; servant of God’s plan.

Ref: Heb 1:14; CCC 328–336

Anointing

Themes

Consecration with oil for mission

Kings, priests, prophets; Christ; sacrament of the sick.

Ref: 1 Sam 16:13; Lk 4:18; Jas 5:14

Antichrist

Themes

Opposed to Christ

Spirit and figures opposing the Gospel.

Ref: 1 Jn 2:18; 2 Thess 2

Apocalypse

Words

Unveiling; revelation

Disclosure of God’s victory in Christ.

Ref: Rev 1:1

Apostle

Words

One sent

The Twelve and those sent on mission; foundation of the Church.

Ref: Mt 10:2; Acts 1:8

Ark of the Covenant

Themes

Throne of God’s presence

Mary as Ark of the New Covenant in Catholic typology.

Ref: Ex 25:10–22; Heb 9:4

Ascension

Themes

Christ’s going up to the Father

Jesus reigns; we hope to follow.

Ref: Acts 1:9–11; CCC 659–667

Atonement

Themes

Reconciliation; covering of sin

Fulfilled in Christ’s Blood.

Ref: Lev 16; Rom 3:25; Heb 9

Authority

Themes

Right to teach, govern, sanctify

From Christ to the apostles and their successors.

Ref: Mt 28:18–20; CCC 874–896

B

B (12)

Baptism

Themes

Immersion; washing of rebirth

Gateway of the Christian life; remits original and personal sin.

Ref: Mt 28:19; Rom 6:3–4; CCC 1213

Beatitude

Themes

Blessedness; happiness in God

The Sermon on the Mount’s path to holiness.

Ref: Mt 5:3–12; CCC 1716–1729

Beloved Disciple

Titles

The disciple Jesus loved

Traditional identification with John; model of intimacy with Christ.

Ref: Jn 13:23; 19:26

Benediction

Words

Blessing

Divine favor spoken over the people; Eucharistic devotion.

Ref: Num 6:24–26

Birth from Above

Themes

New birth by water and Spirit

Baptismal regeneration.

Ref: Jn 3:3–5

Bishop

Words

Overseer

Successor of the apostles; shepherd of a local Church.

Ref: 1 Tim 3:1–7; Titus 1:7

Blasphemy

Themes

Speech that insults God

Taking God’s name in vain; attributing God’s work to evil.

Ref: Ex 20:7; Mk 2:7

Blessing

Themes

Gift of divine favor

God blesses; we bless God in praise.

Ref: Gen 12:2–3; Eph 1:3

Blood of the Covenant

Themes

Life poured out in sacrifice

Christ’s Blood seals the New Covenant.

Ref: Ex 24:8; Mt 26:28

Body of Christ

Themes

Church and Eucharist

Mystical Body; Real Presence.

Ref: 1 Cor 10:16–17; 12:12–27

Bread of Life

Titles

Christ given as food

Eucharistic discourse; true Bread from heaven.

Ref: Jn 6:35–58

Bride of Christ

Themes

The Church

Nuptial mystery of salvation.

Ref: Eph 5:25–32; Rev 21:2

C

C (19)

Call / Vocation

Themes

God’s invitation

To holiness and a state of life.

Ref: 1 Sam 3; Mt 4:19; CCC 1533

Canon

Words

Measuring rod; official list

The 73 books of Sacred Scripture.

Ref: CCC 120

Charism

Themes

Gift of grace for the common good

Given by the Spirit to build up the Church.

Ref: 1 Cor 12; CCC 799–801

Charity

Themes

Love of God and neighbor

Theological virtue; form of all virtues.

Ref: 1 Cor 13; CCC 1822–1829

Cherubim

Words

Angelic guardians

Attend God’s throne; on the Ark.

Ref: Gen 3:24; Ezek 10

Christ

Titles

Anointed One

Messiah; Jesus as priest, prophet, and king.

Ref: Mt 16:16; CCC 436–440

Church

Themes

Assembly called by God

One, holy, catholic, apostolic.

Ref: Mt 16:18; CCC 751–780

Circumcision of Heart

Themes

Interior conversion

True covenant fidelity beyond the flesh.

Ref: Deut 10:16; Rom 2:29

Communion

Themes

Sharing; fellowship

With God and one another; Holy Communion.

Ref: Acts 2:42; 1 Cor 10:16

Compassion

Themes

Suffering with another

Attribute of God; Christian mercy.

Ref: Ex 34:6; Lk 15:20

Confession

Themes

Acknowledgment of sin / faith

Sacrament of Penance; profession of faith.

Ref: 1 Jn 1:9; Rom 10:9

Conscience

Themes

Judgment of reason on moral good

Must be formed by truth.

Ref: Rom 2:15; CCC 1776–1802

Consolation

Themes

Comfort from God

Especially in trial; gift of the Spirit.

Ref: 2 Cor 1:3–7

Conversion

Themes

Turning back to God

Lifelong metanoia.

Ref: Mk 1:15; CCC 1427–1433

Cornerstone

Themes

Christ the foundation

Rejected stone become head of the corner.

Ref: Ps 118:22; Eph 2:20

Covenant

Themes

Sacred bond of love and fidelity

Fulfilled in Christ’s Blood.

Ref: Gen 9; 15; Ex 19–24; Lk 22:20; CCC 56–64

Creation

Themes

God’s act of making all things

From nothing; very good; ordered to glory.

Ref: Gen 1–2; CCC 279–301

Cross

Themes

Instrument and mystery of salvation

Wisdom of God; path of discipleship.

Ref: 1 Cor 1:18; Gal 6:14

Cup

Themes

Share in destiny / Eucharist

Jesus’ cup of suffering; chalice of blessing.

Ref: Ps 16:5; Mt 26:39; 1 Cor 10:16

D

D (11)

Darkness and Light

Themes

Sin versus grace; ignorance versus truth

Christ is the true Light.

Ref: Jn 1:5; Eph 5:8

Day of the Lord

Themes

God’s decisive judgment and salvation

Fulfilled and awaiting final consummation.

Ref: Joel 2; 1 Thess 5:2

Deacon

Words

Servant

Ordained for service of charity and liturgy.

Ref: Acts 6:1–6; 1 Tim 3:8–13

Death

Themes

Separation of soul and body; consequence of sin

Conquered by Christ’s Resurrection.

Ref: Rom 6:23; CCC 1005–1014

Demon

Words

Fallen angel

Tempter; cannot force the will.

Ref: Mk 1:34; CCC 391–395

Desert / Wilderness

Themes

Place of testing and encounter

Israel and Jesus tested; path of purification.

Ref: Ex 16; Mt 4:1–11

Discernment

Themes

Judging spirits and God’s will

Gift of the Spirit; examen of conscience.

Ref: 1 Jn 4:1; CCC 1830–1831

Disciple

Words

Learner; follower

Call to take up the Cross.

Ref: Mt 28:19; Lk 14:27

Divine Mercy

Themes

God’s compassion for sinners

Revealed in Christ; devotion of St. Faustina.

Ref: Ps 136; Jn 20:19–31

Doctrine

Themes

Teaching of the faith

Deposit interpreted by the Magisterium.

Ref: 1 Tim 4:16; CCC 88–90

Doxology

Words

Word of glory; praise

Praise of the Trinity.

Ref: Rom 11:36; Glória Patri

E

E (14)

Ecclesia

Words

Assembly; Church

Greek for Church.

Ref: Mt 16:18

Economy of Salvation

Themes

God’s plan unfolding in history

From creation to consummation in Christ.

Ref: Eph 1:9–10; CCC 257–260

Election

Themes

God’s free choice

Israel chosen; Christians chosen in Christ.

Ref: Deut 7:6–8; Eph 1:4

Emmanuel

Titles

God with us

Name of the Incarnate Son.

Ref: Is 7:14; Mt 1:23

Epiphany

Words

Manifestation

Christ revealed to the nations.

Ref: Mt 2:1–12

Eros

Themes

Desire-love

Purified and assumed into agape.

Ref: Song of Songs; Deus Caritas Est

Eschatology

Themes

Last things

Death, judgment, heaven, hell; new creation.

Ref: CCC 988–1060

Eternal Life

Themes

Life of God shared with us

Knowing the Father and the Son.

Ref: Jn 17:3; CCC 1023–1029

Eucharist

Themes

Thanksgiving

Real Presence; sacrifice and banquet.

Ref: Lk 22:19; CCC 1322–1419

Evangelization

Themes

Proclaiming the Gospel

Mission of the whole Church.

Ref: Mk 16:15; Evangelii Nuntiandi

Exile

Themes

Banishment from the land

Judgment and hope of return; spiritual exile of sin.

Ref: 2 Kgs 25; Ps 137

Exodus

Themes

Going out

Liberation from slavery; Christ’s Passover.

Ref: Ex 12–14; Lk 9:31

Expiation

Themes

Making amends for sin

Christ the propitiation for our sins.

Ref: Lev 16; 1 Jn 2:2

Eye of the Needle

Themes

Difficulty for the rich

With God, salvation remains possible.

Ref: Mt 19:24

F

F (12)

Faith

Themes

Trust and assent to God revealing

Theological virtue; begins eternal life.

Ref: Heb 11:1; CCC 153–165

Fall

Themes

Original sin of Adam and Eve

Wounds nature; healed in Christ.

Ref: Gen 3; Rom 5:12–21

Fasting

Themes

Abstaining for spiritual hunger

With prayer and alms; Lenten discipline.

Ref: Joel 2:12; Mt 6:16–18

Fear of the Lord

Themes

Reverent awe

Gift of the Spirit; beginning of wisdom.

Ref: Prov 9:10; CCC 1831

Fiat

Words

Let it be done

Mary’s consent; model of discipleship.

Ref: Lk 1:38

Fire

Themes

Purification; presence; judgment

Holy Spirit; God’s holiness.

Ref: Ex 3:2; Acts 2:3; 1 Cor 3:13

Firstfruits

Themes

First portion offered to God

Christ risen as firstfruits of the dead.

Ref: Ex 23:19; 1 Cor 15:20

Flesh

Themes

Human weakness; sometimes sinful nature

Word became flesh; walk by the Spirit not the flesh.

Ref: Jn 1:14; Gal 5:16–24

Forgiveness

Themes

Remission of sins

From God; shared in Confession and charity.

Ref: Mt 6:12–15; Jn 20:23

Freedom

Themes

Liberation for the good

Not license; sonship in the Spirit.

Ref: Jn 8:32; Gal 5:1; CCC 1730–1748

Friendship with God

Themes

Intimate communion of charity

Grace makes us friends of God.

Ref: Jn 15:15; CCC 142

Fruit of the Spirit

Themes

Virtues born of grace

Love, joy, peace, and the rest.

Ref: Gal 5:22–23

G

G (8)

Gehenna

Words

Valley of Hinnom; image of hell

Definitive loss of God.

Ref: Mt 5:22; 10:28

Genealogy

Themes

Line of ancestors

Christ enters Israel’s history.

Ref: Mt 1; Lk 3

Gentiles

Words

Nations; non-Jews

Called into the one People of God.

Ref: Is 49:6; Acts 10

Glory

Themes

Radiant weight of God’s presence

Doxa; shared with the saints.

Ref: Ex 40:34; Jn 1:14

Gospel

Words

Good news

Jesus Christ, Son of God, crucified and risen.

Ref: Mk 1:1; Rom 1:16

Grace

Themes

Free gift of God’s life and help

Sanctifying and actual grace.

Ref: Eph 2:8–10; CCC 1996–2005

Gratitude

Themes

Thanksgiving

Eucharist means thanksgiving.

Ref: 1 Thess 5:18; Ps 100

Guardian Angel

Themes

Angel assigned to protect a person

Companion on the way to heaven.

Ref: Mt 18:10; CCC 336

H

H (12)

Hades / Sheol

Words

Abode of the dead

Christ descended to the dead.

Ref: Ps 16:10; Lk 16:23

Hallelujah

Words

Praise Yah (the Lord)

Same as Alleluia.

Ref: Ps 146–150

Heart

Themes

Center of the person; will and love

Pure of heart see God; Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Ref: Deut 6:5; Mt 5:8

Heaven

Themes

Communion with God

Beatific Vision; our true homeland.

Ref: Mt 5:12; CCC 1023–1029

Hell

Themes

Definitive self-exclusion from God

Consequence of unrepented mortal sin.

Ref: Mt 25:41; CCC 1033–1037

Hesed

Words

Steadfast love; covenant mercy

Hebrew key to God’s fidelity.

Ref: Ps 136; Hos 2:19

Holiness

Themes

Belonging to God; moral purity

Universal call of the baptized.

Ref: Lev 19:2; 1 Pet 1:15–16

Holy Spirit

Themes

Third Person of the Trinity

Lord and Giver of life.

Ref: Jn 14–16; Acts 2; CCC 683–747

Hope

Themes

Trust in God’s promises

Theological virtue; Spe Salvi.

Ref: Rom 8:24–25; CCC 1817–1821

Hosanna

Words

Save, we pray!

Acclamation at the Triumphal Entry and Sanctus.

Ref: Ps 118:25; Mt 21:9

Humility

Themes

Truth about ourselves before God

Christ’s kenosis; foundation of virtues.

Ref: Phil 2:5–11; Mt 11:29

Hypostatic Union

Themes

Two natures in one divine Person

Defined at Chalcedon.

Ref: Jn 1:14; CCC 464–469

I

I (8)

Icon / Image

Words

Likeness

Humans in God’s image; Christ the Image of the Father.

Ref: Gen 1:26–27; Col 1:15

Idolatry

Themes

Worship of false gods

Putting creatures in God’s place.

Ref: Ex 20:3–5; 1 Jn 5:21

Immaculate

Themes

Without stain of sin

Mary preserved from original sin.

Ref: Lk 1:28; CCC 490–493

Immanuel

Titles

God with us

Same as Emmanuel.

Ref: Is 7:14; Mt 1:23

Incarnation

Themes

The Word becoming flesh

For our salvation.

Ref: Jn 1:14; CCC 456–483

Iniquity

Words

Twisted injustice; guilt

Sin as distortion of the good.

Ref: Ps 51; Is 53:6

Intercession

Themes

Praying on behalf of others

Christ, Mary, saints, and the Church.

Ref: Ex 32:11–14; 1 Tim 2:1

Israel

Themes

People who wrestle with God

Covenant people; Church as new People of God.

Ref: Gen 32:28; Rom 9–11

J

J (7)

Jealousy of God

Themes

Zeal for exclusive love

Not petty envy; covenant fidelity.

Ref: Ex 34:14

Jesus

Titles

The Lord saves

Name above every name.

Ref: Mt 1:21; Phil 2:9–11

Joy

Themes

Fruit of the Spirit; Gospel gladness

Deeper than pleasure; even in the Cross.

Ref: Phil 4:4; Gal 5:22

Jubilee

Themes

Year of release and restoration

Foreshadows Christ’s liberation.

Ref: Lev 25; Lk 4:18–19

Judgment

Themes

God’s just verdict

Particular and general judgment.

Ref: Mt 25:31–46; CCC 1021–1022

Justice

Themes

Right relationship; giving each their due

Divine and human; social teaching.

Ref: Mic 6:8; Mt 5:6

Justification

Themes

Being made righteous by grace

Faith working through love; Baptism.

Ref: Rom 3–5; Jas 2:24; CCC 1987–1995

K

K (5)

Kenosis

Themes

Self-emptying

Christ’s humility in Incarnation and Cross.

Ref: Phil 2:5–11

Keys of the Kingdom

Themes

Authority to bind and loose

Given to Peter; papal ministry.

Ref: Mt 16:19; Is 22:22

Kingdom of God

Themes

God’s reign in Christ

Already and not yet.

Ref: Mk 1:15; CCC 541–550

Knowledge of God

Themes

Intimate recognition, not mere data

Covenant relationship.

Ref: Hos 6:6; Jn 17:3

Koinonia

Words

Fellowship; communion

Sharing life in Christ.

Ref: Acts 2:42; 1 Jn 1:3

L

L (10)

Lamb of God

Titles

Christ the paschal sacrifice

Takes away the sin of the world.

Ref: Jn 1:29; Rev 5

Law

Themes

Torah; instruction; moral order

Fulfilled, not abolished, in Christ.

Ref: Ex 20; Mt 5:17; Rom 7–8

Leaven

Themes

Yeast; permeating influence

Kingdom’s growth; also warning against corruption.

Ref: Mt 13:33; 1 Cor 5:6–8

Lectio Divina

Themes

Divine reading of Scripture

Prayerful reading with the Church.

Ref: CCC 1177; 2705–2708

Leviathan

Words

Chaos monster; pride

Image of evil overcome by God.

Ref: Job 41; Ps 74:14

Life

Themes

Gift of God; eternal life in Christ

Christ is the Life.

Ref: Jn 10:10; 14:6

Light of the World

Titles

Christ; also disciples

Dispels darkness of sin.

Ref: Jn 8:12; Mt 5:14

Logos

Words

Word; Reason

Eternal Son through whom all was made.

Ref: Jn 1:1–14

Lord (Kyrios)

Titles

Divine title of Jesus

Confession of faith: Jesus is Lord.

Ref: Phil 2:11; Rom 10:9

Love

Themes

Charity; greatest commandment

God is love.

Ref: Deut 6:5; Mt 22:37–40; 1 Jn 4

M

M (14)

Magisterium

Themes

Teaching office of the Church

Authentic interpretation of the Word of God.

Ref: CCC 85–87

Mammon

Words

Wealth as rival god

Cannot serve God and mammon.

Ref: Mt 6:24

Manna

Words

What is it?; bread from heaven

Type of the Eucharist.

Ref: Ex 16; Jn 6:31–35

Maranatha

Words

Come, Lord!

Eschatological and Eucharistic cry.

Ref: 1 Cor 16:22; Rev 22:20

Martyr

Words

Witness

Witness unto death.

Ref: Acts 22:20; Rev 2:13

Mediator

Themes

Go-between

Christ the one Mediator; Mary’s maternal mediation subordinate.

Ref: 1 Tim 2:5; Heb 8–9

Memorial

Themes

Anamnesis of salvation

Passover and Mass.

Ref: Ex 12:14; Lk 22:19

Mercy

Themes

Hesed / eleos; steadfast compassion

Heart of the Gospel.

Ref: Ps 51; Lk 6:36; CCC 1846–1848

Messiah

Titles

Anointed One (Hebrew)

Jesus the Christ.

Ref: Jn 1:41; CCC 436–440

Metanoia

Words

Change of mind and heart

Conversion; repentance.

Ref: Mk 1:15

Miracle

Themes

Sign of the Kingdom

Wonders revealing who Jesus is.

Ref: Jn 2:11; CCC 547–550

Mission

Themes

Being sent

From the Father through the Son in the Spirit.

Ref: Jn 20:21; Mt 28:19

Mystery

Themes

Revealed plan once hidden

Trinitarian and sacramental mysteries.

Ref: Eph 3:3–6; CCC 50

Mystical Body

Themes

Church united to Christ the Head

Visible and spiritual communion.

Ref: 1 Cor 12; Col 1:18

N

N (6)

Name of the Lord

Themes

God’s revealed identity and power

Hallowed in prayer; invoked in Baptism.

Ref: Ex 3:14–15; Phil 2:9–11

Neighbor

Themes

Anyone to whom love is owed

Shown in the Good Samaritan.

Ref: Lk 10:25–37

New Covenant

Themes

Covenant in Christ’s Blood

Law written on hearts; Eucharist.

Ref: Jer 31:31–34; Lk 22:20

New Creation

Themes

Renewal in Christ

Baptismal and cosmic hope.

Ref: 2 Cor 5:17; Rev 21:1–5

Night

Themes

Trial; waiting; encounter

Passover night; Nicodemus; hour of darkness.

Ref: Ex 12; Jn 3:2; Lk 22:53

Number Forty

Themes

Time of testing and preparation

Flood, Moses, Elijah, Jesus’ fast; Lent.

Ref: Ex 24:18; Mt 4:2

O

O (6)

Obedience

Themes

Hearing and doing God’s will

Christ obedient unto death.

Ref: 1 Sam 15:22; Phil 2:8

Offering

Themes

Gift surrendered to God

Christ the perfect offering.

Ref: Gen 4; Heb 10

Oil

Themes

Joy; healing; consecration

Sacraments of Confirmation, Orders, Anointing.

Ref: Ps 23:5; Jas 5:14

Only-Begotten

Titles

Unique Son of the Father

Eternal generation of the Word.

Ref: Jn 1:14, 18; 3:16

Oracle

Words

Divine utterance

Prophetic word.

Ref: Is 1:1; Jer 1

Original Sin

Themes

Fallen state inherited from Adam

Healed in Baptism.

Ref: Rom 5:12–19; CCC 396–409

P

P (25)

Parable

Themes

Story that reveals and conceals

Kingdom taught in images.

Ref: Mt 13

Paraclete

Titles

Advocate; Consoler

Holy Spirit.

Ref: Jn 14:16–26

Paradise

Words

Garden of delight; heaven

Promised to the good thief.

Ref: Gen 2; Lk 23:43

Parousia

Themes

Coming; presence of the Lord

Second Coming in glory.

Ref: 1 Thess 4:15–17; CCC 668–682

Paschal Mystery

Themes

Passion, Death, Resurrection, Ascension

Center of faith and liturgy.

Ref: CCC 571–655

Passover

Themes

Passage from death to life

Christ our Passover Lamb.

Ref: Ex 12; 1 Cor 5:7

Pastor / Shepherd

Themes

One who feeds and guards

Christ the Good Shepherd; bishops as pastors.

Ref: Ps 23; Jn 10; 1 Pet 5

Peace (Shalom)

Themes

Wholeness; right relationship

Gift of the Risen Lord.

Ref: Jn 14:27; CCC 2304

Pentecost

Themes

Fiftieth day; gift of the Spirit

Birth of the Church’s public mission.

Ref: Acts 2

People of God

Themes

Israel and the Church

Chosen race, royal priesthood.

Ref: 1 Pet 2:9–10; CCC 781–786

Perfection

Themes

Wholeness of charity

Call to holiness.

Ref: Mt 5:48; CCC 2012–2016

Perseverance

Themes

Enduring in grace

Running the race with Christ.

Ref: Mt 24:13; Heb 12:1–2

Petition

Themes

Asking in prayer

One of the forms of prayer.

Ref: Mt 7:7–11; CCC 2629–2633

Philia

Themes

Friendship love

Jesus calls disciples friends.

Ref: Jn 15:13–15

Pilgrimage

Themes

Journey toward God

Church as pilgrim people.

Ref: Heb 11:13–16; Ps 84

Poor in Spirit

Themes

Humble dependence on God

First Beatitude.

Ref: Mt 5:3

Praise

Themes

Glorifying God

Highest form of prayer.

Ref: Ps 150; CCC 2639–2643

Prayer

Themes

Raising the heart to God

Living relationship with the Trinity.

Ref: Mt 6:5–13; CCC 2558–2758

Predestination

Themes

God’s eternal plan of salvation

Not denial of freedom; God desires all to be saved.

Ref: Rom 8:29–30; CCC 600; 1037

Priest

Themes

Mediator who offers sacrifice

Christ the High Priest; ministerial and baptismal priesthood.

Ref: Heb 5–10; CCC 1539–1600

Promise

Themes

God’s faithful word

Yes in Christ.

Ref: Gen 12; 2 Cor 1:20

Prophecy

Themes

Speaking God’s word

Fulfilled in Christ the Prophet.

Ref: Deut 18:15; 1 Cor 14

Propitiation

Themes

Atoning sacrifice

Christ turns away wrath by love.

Ref: Rom 3:25; 1 Jn 2:2

Providence

Themes

God’s wise governance

Nothing outside His care.

Ref: Mt 6:25–34; CCC 302–314

Purity of Heart

Themes

Undivided intention for God

Sees God.

Ref: Mt 5:8; CCC 2514–2533

Q

Q (2)

Quenching the Spirit

Themes

Resisting grace

Warning against hardness of heart.

Ref: 1 Thess 5:19

Quiet / Silence

Themes

Receptive stillness before God

Prophetic and contemplative prayer.

Ref: 1 Kgs 19:12; Hab 2:20

R

R (11)

Rabboni

Words

My Teacher / Master

Mary Magdalene’s cry to the Risen Lord.

Ref: Jn 20:16

Ransom

Themes

Price of liberation

Christ gives His life as ransom for many.

Ref: Mk 10:45; 1 Tim 2:6

Reconciliation

Themes

Restoration of friendship with God

Sacrament of Penance.

Ref: 2 Cor 5:18–20; CCC 1422–1498

Redemption

Themes

Buying back; liberation

By Christ’s Blood.

Ref: Ex 6:6; Eph 1:7

Remnant

Themes

Faithful few preserved by God

Hope within judgment.

Ref: Is 10:20–22; Rom 11:5

Repentance

Themes

Turning from sin to God

Metanoia.

Ref: Acts 2:38; CCC 1430–1433

Rest

Themes

Sabbath gift; peace in God

God’s rest; eternal rest for the faithful.

Ref: Gen 2:2–3; Heb 4

Resurrection

Themes

Rising to new life

Christ’s and ours.

Ref: 1 Cor 15; CCC 988–1019

Revelation

Themes

God making Himself known

Scripture and Tradition.

Ref: Heb 1:1–2; Dei Verbum

Righteousness

Themes

Right standing and right living

Gift and task; justification.

Ref: Mt 5:6; Rom 3–5

Rock

Themes

Firm foundation

God as Rock; Peter as rock of the Church.

Ref: Ps 18:2; Mt 16:18

S

S (23)

Sabbath

Themes

Seventh day of rest

Fulfilled in the Lord’s Day.

Ref: Ex 20:8–11; Mk 2:27–28

Sacrament

Themes

Efficacious sign of grace

Seven sacraments of the New Law.

Ref: CCC 1113–1134

Sacrifice

Themes

Gift made sacred to God

Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice; Mass.

Ref: Gen 22; Heb 10; CCC 1359–1372

Salvation

Themes

Deliverance from sin and death

In Christ alone; through the Church.

Ref: Acts 4:12; CCC 161–169

Sanctification

Themes

Being made holy

Work of the Spirit.

Ref: 1 Thess 4:3; CCC 1989–2029

Satan

Words

Adversary

The devil; defeated by Christ.

Ref: Job 1–2; Mt 4:1–11

Scripture

Themes

Sacred writings

Inspired Word of God.

Ref: 2 Tim 3:16; Dei Verbum

Seal

Themes

Mark of belonging and protection

Baptism and Confirmation; Spirit’s seal.

Ref: Eph 1:13; Rev 7

Second Coming

Themes

Parousia of Christ

In glory to judge the living and the dead.

Ref: Mt 24; Acts 1:11

Servant of the Lord

Titles

Isaian figure fulfilled in Jesus

Suffering Servant.

Ref: Is 42; 53; Mt 12:18

Shekinah

Words

Dwelling presence of God

Glory filling the Tabernacle/Temple.

Ref: Ex 40:34–38

Shepherd

Themes

Guide and guardian

See Pastor.

Ref: Ps 23; Jn 10

Sign

Themes

Miracle pointing beyond itself

Especially in John’s Gospel.

Ref: Jn 2:11; CCC 547

Sin

Themes

Offense against God

Mortal and venial.

Ref: 1 Jn 3:4; CCC 1849–1869

Son of David

Titles

Messianic title

Jesus fulfills the Davidic promise.

Ref: Mt 1:1; 21:9

Son of God

Titles

Divine Sonship of Jesus

Confessed by the Church.

Ref: Mk 1:1; Jn 20:31

Son of Man

Titles

Jesus’ self-designation

Glory and suffering combined.

Ref: Dan 7:13–14; Mk 10:45

Soul

Themes

Spiritual principle of the human person

Created immortal; reunited with body at resurrection.

Ref: Mt 10:28; CCC 362–368

Spirit

Words

Breath; Holy Spirit; human spirit

Ruach / Pneuma.

Ref: Gen 1:2; Jn 3:8

Stewardship

Themes

Responsible care of gifts

Time, talent, treasure, creation.

Ref: Mt 25:14–30; 1 Pet 4:10

Stumbling Block

Themes

Scandal of the Cross

Christ crucified.

Ref: 1 Cor 1:23; Rom 9:33

Suffering

Themes

Participation in the Cross

Redemptive when united to Christ.

Ref: Col 1:24; CCC 1500–1510

Synagogue

Words

Assembly; Jewish house of prayer

Context of Jesus’ and Paul’s preaching.

Ref: Lk 4:16; Acts 13:14

T

T (15)

Tabernacle

Words

Dwelling

God pitches His tent; Christ and the Eucharist.

Ref: Ex 25–40; Jn 1:14

Temple

Themes

House of God

Christ’s Body; the Church; the believer.

Ref: 1 Kgs 8; Jn 2:19–21; 1 Cor 6:19

Temptation

Themes

Trial; solicitation to sin

Jesus was tempted yet without sin.

Ref: Mt 4:1–11; 1 Cor 10:13

Testament

Words

Covenant; will

Old and New Testaments.

Ref: Heb 9:15–17

Thanksgiving

Themes

Eucharistia

Habit of the redeemed.

Ref: Ps 100; Lk 17:11–19

Theophany

Themes

Appearance of God

Burning bush; Sinai; Transfiguration.

Ref: Ex 3; 19; Mk 9:2–8

Theotokos

Titles

God-bearer; Mother of God

Mary’s dogmatic title.

Ref: Lk 1:43; Council of Ephesus

Thirst

Themes

Desire for God / the Spirit

Living water; Christ’s thirst on the Cross.

Ref: Ps 42; Jn 4:13–14; 19:28

Tradition

Themes

Handing on the Gospel

Living transmission with Scripture.

Ref: 2 Thess 2:15; CCC 75–83

Transfiguration

Themes

Christ’s glory revealed

Foretaste of the Resurrection.

Ref: Mt 17:1–8; CCC 554–556

Transubstantiation

Themes

Change of substance in the Eucharist

Bread and wine become Body and Blood.

Ref: CCC 1376

Treasure

Themes

Where the heart is

Heavenly treasure.

Ref: Mt 6:19–21

Tree of Life

Themes

Source of immortality

Lost in Eden; restored in the New Jerusalem; Cross typology.

Ref: Gen 2–3; Rev 22:2

Trinity

Themes

One God in three Persons

Central mystery of faith.

Ref: Mt 28:19; CCC 232–267

Truth

Themes

Fidelity; reality of God

Christ is the Truth.

Ref: Jn 8:32; 14:6

U

U (2)

Unity

Themes

Oneness of the Church

One Lord, one faith, one Baptism.

Ref: Jn 17:21; Eph 4:3–6

Universal Call to Holiness

Themes

Every baptized person called to be a saint

Vatican II emphasis.

Ref: Mt 5:48; Lumen Gentium 39–42

V

V (8)

Veil

Themes

Separation and revelation

Torn at Christ’s death; access to God.

Ref: Ex 26; Mt 27:51; 2 Cor 3

Vengeance

Themes

God’s just judgment

Leave to God; Christians forgive.

Ref: Deut 32:35; Rom 12:19

Vine and Branches

Themes

Union with Christ

Apart from Him we can do nothing.

Ref: Jn 15:1–8

Virgin Birth

Themes

Jesus conceived by the Holy Spirit

Mary ever-virgin.

Ref: Mt 1:18–25; Lk 1:26–38; CCC 484–511

Virtue

Themes

Habitual disposition to the good

Theological and cardinal virtues.

Ref: Phil 4:8; CCC 1803–1845

Vision of God

Themes

Beatific Vision

Seeing God face to face.

Ref: 1 Cor 13:12; Mt 5:8

Voice of the Lord

Themes

God speaking

In Scripture, conscience, Church.

Ref: Ps 29; Jn 10:3–4

Vow

Themes

Free promise to God

Religious profession; baptismal promises.

Ref: Num 30; CCC 2102

W

W (13)

Watchfulness

Themes

Spiritual vigilance

Pray that you may not enter into temptation.

Ref: Mt 24:42; 26:41

Water

Themes

Life; cleansing; Spirit

Baptism; living water.

Ref: Jn 3:5; 4:14; 7:37–39

Way

Themes

Path of discipleship; Christ Himself

Early name for Christianity.

Ref: Jn 14:6; Acts 9:2

Wedding Feast

Themes

Kingdom banquet

Eucharist and heaven.

Ref: Mt 22:1–14; Rev 19:7–9

Wilderness

Themes

See Desert

Place of trial and grace.

Ref: Mt 4:1

Wisdom

Themes

Skill for living in God’s fear

Christ the Wisdom of God; gift of the Spirit.

Ref: Prov 8; 1 Cor 1:24

Witness

Themes

Martyrdom; testimony

By word and life.

Ref: Acts 1:8; Rev 12:11

Woe

Words

Prophetic lament / warning

Against injustice and hypocrisy.

Ref: Is 5; Mt 23

Word of God

Themes

Scripture and the eternal Logos

Living and active.

Ref: Heb 4:12; Jn 1:1

Works of Mercy

Themes

Charity in action

Corporal and spiritual.

Ref: Mt 25:31–46; CCC 2447

World

Themes

Creation; or fallen system opposed to God

God loves the world; do not love worldliness.

Ref: Jn 3:16; 1 Jn 2:15–17

Worship

Themes

Adoration in spirit and truth

Liturgy as summit.

Ref: Jn 4:23–24; CCC 2096–2132

Wrath of God

Themes

Holy opposition to evil

Not passion; justice of love.

Ref: Rom 1:18; Jn 3:36

Y

Y (2)

Yoke

Themes

Discipline of discipleship

Christ’s yoke is easy; learn from Him.

Ref: Mt 11:29–30

Youth renewed

Themes

Strength restored by God

Eagle imagery of hope.

Ref: Ps 103:5; Is 40:31

Z

Z (2)

Zeal

Themes

Fervor for God’s house

Christ cleansing the Temple.

Ref: Ps 69:9; Jn 2:17

Zion

Themes

Jerusalem; People of God

Heavenly Zion; Church.

Ref: Ps 48; Heb 12:22