Common Phrases With Biblical Origin

The Bible has been a transforming influence on millions of lives, including my own. One day I was reading the Bible, and came across one of the common phrases we use in our modern-day language within the verses I was reading. I started to think about what other phrases we use in our everyday conversations that have biblical origins. This then led me to begin to research phrases with biblical origins. In my research I discovered that no book in history has contributed more phrases to the English language than the Bible. The following is the result of my research, and I hope that you enjoy reading through the list of biblical-origin phrases. It should be noted that I only included conversational phrases, and did not include such things as locations, book titles/quotes, or movie titles/quotes, which would have significantly increased this list. (There are 453 Phrases) A tree is recognized by its fruit Phrase meaning that people are judged by their actions, and people judge your character by what you do. Matthew 12:33 (NKJV) "Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree bad and its fruit bad; for a tree is known by its fruit.” Aaron’s Rod Refers to a miraculous event serving as a warning or acting as a sign of someone’s significance. The reference usually is to “Aaron’s rod that budded. The miracle was to show that Aaron was God’s chosen leader. It was placed in the ark of the covenant as a warning to would-be rebels against God’s appointed leaders. Numbers 17:1-11 (NKJV) “And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: ‘Speak to the children of Israel, and get from them a rod from each father's house, all their leaders according to their fathers' houses--twelve rods. Write each man's name on his rod. And you shall write Aaron's name on the rod of Levi. For there shall be one rod for the head of each father's house. Then you shall place them in the tabernacle of meeting before the Testimony, where I meet with you. And it shall be that the rod of the man whom I choose will blossom; thus I will rid Myself of the complaints of the children of Israel, which they make against you.’ So Moses spoke to the children of Israel, and each of their leaders gave him a rod apiece, for each leader according to their fathers' houses, twelve rods; and the rod of Aaron was among their rods. And Moses placed the rods before the LORD in the tabernacle of witness. Now it came to pass on the next day that Moses went into the tabernacle of witness, and behold, the rod of Aaron, of the house of Levi, had sprouted and put forth buds, had produced blossoms and yielded ripe almonds. Then Moses brought out all the rods from before the LORD to all the children of Israel; and they looked, and each man took his rod. And the LORD said to Moses, ‘Bring Aaron's rod back before the Testimony, to be kept as a sign against the rebels, that you may put their complaints away from Me, lest they die.’ Thus did Moses; just as the LORD had commanded him, so he did.” Hebrews 9:4 (NKJV) “which had the golden censer and the ark of the covenant overlaid on all sides with gold, in which were the golden pot that had the manna, Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant;” Abomination of desolation Phrase referring to a detestable thing. Matthew 24:15-16 (KJV) “When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:” Abraham’s bosom Phrase referring to heaven or bliss Luke 16:22 (KJV) “And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;” Act of the God An act which is accepted legally as being outside human control Deuteronomy 11:7 (NKJV) “but your eyes have seen every great act of the LORD which He did.” Judges 5:11 (NKJV) “Far from the noise of the archers, among the watering places, There they shall recount the righteous acts of the LORD, The righteous acts for His villagers in Israel; Then the people of the LORD shall go down to the gates.” 1 Samuel 12:7 (NKJV) “Now therefore, stand still, that I may reason with you before the LORD concerning all the righteous acts of the LORD which He did to you and your fathers:” Adam’s Apple The Adam’s Apple, the thyroid cartilage which appears as a lump in the front of the throat, takes its name from the supposition that a piece of the forbidden fruit stuck in Adam’s throat (Genesis Chapter 3) Adam’s Rib Refers to a woman. Genesis 2:21-23 (NKJV) “And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in its place. Then the rib which the LORD God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man. And Adam said: "This is now bone of my bones And flesh of my flesh; She shall be called Woman, Because she was taken out of Man." All things must pass Phrase meaning that nothing lasts forever. Matthew 24:6 (NKJV) “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” All things to all men Phrase referring to one trying to please everyone, typically by regularly altering one’s behavior or opinion in order to conform to those of others. 1 Corinthians 9:22 (NKJV) “to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” Am I my brother’s keeper? Phrase meaning that one is not responsible for another person’s actions, or for keeping track of them. Genesis 4:9 (NKJV) “Then the LORD said to Cain, "Where is Abel your brother?" He said, "I do not know. Am I my brother's keeper?" Amen Meaning “so let it be”. Used to express strong approval or support. Numbers 5:22 (NKJV) “and may this water that causes the curse go into your stomach, and make your belly swell and your thigh rot. Then the woman shall say, ‘Amen, so be it.’" Matthew 6:13 (NKJV) 13 And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Apple of his eye Referring to something or someone very precious or dear Deuteronomy 32:10 (NKJV) "He found him in a desert land And in the wasteland, a howling wilderness; He encircled him, He instructed him, He kept him as the apple of His eye. Zechariah 2:8 (NKJV) “For thus says the LORD of hosts: ‘He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye.’” Armegeddon Used as a general term for a great and crucial conflict. In the Bible, this is the great and final battle to be fought in this world. Revelation 16:16 (NKJV) “ “And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon.” As clear as crystal/crystal clear Phrase meaning completely clear and unclouded Revelation 22:1 (NKJV) “And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb.” As good as dead To be in a position of great and irreversible danger or trouble, with the outcome of death being either figurative or literal Hebrews 11:12 (NKJV) “Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude--innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore.” As old as Methuselah Methusalah is the oldest living person in the Bible. This phrase is used in reference to something or someone very old. Genesis 5:25-27 (NKJV) “Methuselah lived one hundred and eighty-seven years, and begot Lamech. After he begot Lamech, Methuselah lived seven hundred and eighty-two years, and had sons and daughters. So all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred and sixty-nine years; and he died.” As old as the hills Phrase used in reference to something or someone exceedingly old. Job 15:7 (NKJV) "Are you the first man who was born? Or were you made before the hills?” As white as snow Phrase meaning pure white Daniel 7:9 (NKJV) "I watched till thrones were put in place, And the Ancient of Days was seated; His garment was white as snow, And the hair of His head was like pure wool. His throne was a fiery flame, Its wheels a burning fire;” As you sow so shall you reap Idiom meaning that how we act and behave in life, especially towards others, will come back to us, good for good, or bad for bad. Galatians 6:7 (NKJV) “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” Ashes to ashes dust to dust Phrase meaning that we come from dust, and return to dust upon death through decay Genesis 3:19 (NKJV) “In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread Till you return to the ground, For out of it you were taken; For dust you are, And to dust you shall return." Ask for bread, and receive a stone Phrase meaning to ask for something that is of value or will provide for a need, and instead receive something of no value or not providing for that need. To get much less than requested. Matthew 7:9 (KJV) “Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?” At a venture Phrase meaning according to chance, or at random. Trusting to chance rather than to previous consideration or preparation 1 Kings 22:34 (KJV) “And a certain man drew a bow at a venture, and smote the king of Israel between the joints of the harness: wherefore he said unto the driver of his chariot, Turn thine hand, and carry me out of the host; for I am wounded.” At death’s door Phrase meaning being close to death, very near the end of one’s life, gravely ill or injured Job 38:17 (NKJV) “Have the gates of death been revealed to you? Or have you seen the doors of the shadow of death?” Psalm 107:18 (NKJV) “Their soul abhorred all manner of food, And they drew near to the gates of death.” At his wits end Phrase meaning perplexed, unable to think what to do Psalm 107:27 (NKJV) “They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, And are at their wits' end.” Balaam’s ass A byword for someone or something that is stubborn in its refusal to pursue a course of action (sometimes for a valid but undisclosed reason). Balaam is a prophet or ‘seer’. The irony here is that the ass sees the angel who opposes Balaam and declares God’s message to him, thus usurping the seer’s role and making an ass of Balaam. Numbers 22:27-28 (NKJV) “And when the donkey saw the Angel of the LORD, she lay down under Balaam; so Balaam's anger was aroused, and he struck the donkey with his staff. Then the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?" Baptism by fire As an idiom in our modern world, a ‘baptism by fire’ means going through a tough first experience, and ordeal, or martyrdom. It applies to the tests that life may bring our way to make us better people. More recently, referring to a soldier’s first experience of being under fire, or generally going through a tough first experience. Matthew 3:11 (NKJV) “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Be fruitful and multiply Phrase meaning to have kids, emphasis on plural Genesis 1:22 (NKJV) “And God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth." Be of good cheer Take courage; be cheerful in the face of danger or challenging circumstances Matthew 14:27 (NKJV) “But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.’" John 16:33 (NKJV) “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." Acts 27:25 (KJV) “Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.” Bear fruit Metaphoric term meaning to be successful especially after a lot of work 2 Kings 19:30 (NKJV) “And the remnant who have escaped of the house of Judah Shall again take root downward, And bear fruit upward.” Psalm 92:14 (NKJV) "They shall still bear fruit in old age; They shall be fresh and flourishing," Isaiah 37:31 (NKJV) “And the remnant who have escaped of the house of Judah Shall again take root downward, And bear fruit upward.” Hosea 9:16 (KJV) “Ephraim is smitten, their root is dried up, they shall bear no fruit: yea, though they bring forth, yet will I slay even the beloved fruit of their womb.” Mark 4:20 (NKJV) “But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred." Bear false witness Meaning to make a false statement Exodus 20:16 (KJV) “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.” Matthew 19:18-19 (KJV) “He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Beard the lion Meaning to confront a dangerous situation 1 Samuel 17:34-35 (KJV) “And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock: And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him.” Beat swords into ploughshares Meaning to turn to peaceful ways, and away from war Isaiah 2:4 (NKJV) “He shall judge between the nations, And rebuke many people; They shall beat their swords into plowshares, And their spears into pruning hooks; Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, Neither shall they learn war anymore.” Beat the air Phrase meaning to continue to make futile attempts, fight to no purpose 1 Corinthians 9:26 (NKJV) “Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.” Before the flood Phrase referring to a very long time ago Joshua 24:2 (KJV) “And Joshua said unto all the people, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Your fathers dwelt on the other side of the flood in old time, even Terah, the father of Abraham, and the father of Nachor: and they served other gods.” Behemoth Descriptive ofsomething extremely large with great strength; used for an extremely large or powerful entity Job 40:15-24 (NKJV) “Look now at the behemoth, which I made along with you; He eats grass like an ox. See now, his strength is in his hips, And his power is in his stomach muscles. He moves his tail like a cedar; The sinews of his thighs are tightly knit. His bones are like beams of bronze, His ribs like bars of iron. He is the first of the ways of God; Only He who made him can bring near His sword. Surely the mountains yield food for him, And all the beasts of the field play there. He lies under the lotus trees, In a covert of reeds and marsh. The lotus trees cover him with their shade; The willows by the brook surround him. Indeed the river may rage, Yet he is not disturbed; He is confident, though the Jordan gushes into his mouth, Though he takes it in his eyes, Or one pierces his nose with a snare.” Beside oneself Expression indicating extreme levels of emotion, usually negative ones such as frustration, anger, or grief. Acts 26:24 (NKJV) “Now as he thus made his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, ‘Paul, you are beside yourself! Much learning is driving you mad!’ Better a friend who is close than a brother far away The saying is pretty much an axiom. Sometimes having a friend or neighbor close in time of need is better than having to go a great distance for a family member who may not even be as willing to help as your friend. Proverbs 27:10 (NKJV) “Do not forsake your own friend or your father's friend, Nor go to your brother's house in the day of your calamity; Better is a neighbor nearby than a brother far away.” Bid someone Godspeed Wish someone success, good fortune, or prosperous journeying 2 John 1:10 (KJV) “If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed” Bite the dust To die or fail Psalm 72:9 (NKJV) “Those who dwell in the wilderness will bow before Him, And His enemies will lick the dust.” Bitter end To the limit of one’s efforts, to the last extremity Proverbs 5:3-4 (KJV) “For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil: But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a twoedged sword.” Blind leading the blind Today we use this idiom to describe people who are not actually blind, but who don’t know how to do something and are trying to explain it to other people who don’t know how to do it either. Matthew 15:14 (NKJV) “Let them alone. They are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch." Blood on your hands Meaning to be responsible for someone’s death Isaiah 1:15 (KJV) “And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood.” Blood, sweat and tears This expression, meaning excessive effort exerted under trying circumstances. Luke 22:44 (NKJV) “And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” Though this verse does not use the word ‘tears’, it is implied, and was used in the first known printed reference to the phrase in the English translation of “Sermons on Various Subjects” by Christmas Evans (1766-1838), “Christ the High Priest of our profession, when he laid down his life for us on Calvary, was bathed in his own blood, sweat and tears.” Blow your own horn To tell everyone proudly/boastfully about your achievements Matthew 6:2 (KJV) “Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” Born again Having returned to or newly adopted an activity or conviction John 3:3 (NKJV) “Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Born of woman Human; mortal and imperfect Job 14:1 (NKJV) "Man who is born of woman Is of few days and full of trouble.” Galatians 4:4 (NKJV) “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law," Bowls of compassion Deep feeling 1 John 3:17 (KJV) “But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?” Bottomless pit Something that has no limits, or a situation that will never end; unfathomable place, hell Revelation 9:2 (NKJV) “And he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke arose out of the pit like the smoke of a great furnace. So the sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke of the pit.” Revelation 11:7 (NKJV) “When they finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them.” Break bread Having a meal together Acts 20:7 (KJV) “And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.” Acts 20:11 (KJV) “When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.” Break of day Dawn Acts 20:11 (KJV) “When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.” Break your heart Overwhelm someone with sadness; to end a relationship and causing great emotional hurt to another Psalm 34:18 (KJV) “The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” Jeremiah 23:9 (NKJV) “My heart within me is broken Because of the prophets; All my bones shake. I am like a drunken man, And like a man whom wine has overcome, Because of the LORD, And because of His holy words.” Acts 21:13 (KJV) “Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” Bridle one’s tongue Today this is quoted when telling someone to “watch their mouth.” James 1:26 (NKJV) “If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one's religion is useless.” Bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to the grave To have or create sorrow in someone’s life Genesis 42:38 (NKJV) “But he said, "My son shall not go down with you, for his brother is dead, and he is left alone. If any calamity should befall him along the way in which you go, then you would bring down my gray hair with sorrow to the grave." Bringing nothing into the world and carrying nothing out We all must leave worldly wealth behind when we die 1 Timothy 6:7 (KJV) “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” Bring to light To make something known ; to reveal; to disclose 1 Corinthians 4:5 (KJV) “Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.” Bring word To bring information Genesis 37:14 (KJV) “And he said to him, Go, I pray thee, see whether it be well with thy brethren, and well with the flocks; and bring me word again. So he sent him out of the vale of Hebron, and he came to Shechem.” Matthew 2:8 (KJV) “And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.” Broken heart Despair; disillusionment; devastating sorrow, especially from disappointment in love Psalm 34:18 (NKJV) “The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit.” Psalm 69:20 (KJV) “Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none.” Broken reed Referring to an unreliable person or thing Isaiah 36:6 (KJV) “Lo, thou trustest in the staff of this broken reed, on Egypt; whereon if a man lean, it will go into his hand, and pierce it: so is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all that trust in him.” Brood of vipers A disparaging reference to a group of people who are potentially dangerous to the speaker Matthew 3:7 (NKJV) “But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, "Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?” Build on sand Phrase meaning to build something on an unstable foundation Matthew 7:26-27 (KJV) “And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” Burnt offering An expression jokingly used to describe burned food. Genesis 8:20 (KJV) “And Noah builded an altar unto the LORD; and took of every clean beast, and of every clean fowl, and offered burnt offerings on the altar.” By and by This now means “after a while” or in the unknown distant future, and has been in use in its present form since the early sixteenth century. Luke 21:9 (KJV) “But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by.” Matthew 13:21 (KJV) “Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.” Mark 6:25 (KJV) “And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of John the Baptist.” By the skin of your teeth Phrase meaning to barely getting by; narrowly reaching a goal; narrowly escaping disaster Job 19:20 (NKJV) “My bone clings to my skin and to my flesh, And I have escaped by the skin of my teeth.” By the sweat of your brow Meaning by ones’ own hard work Genesis 3:19 (NKJV) “In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread Till you return to the ground, For out of it you were taken; For dust you are, And to dust you shall return." Camel through the eye of a needle Phrase referring to something that is almost impossible to do our to make happen Matthew 19:23-24 (KJV) “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” Can a leopard change its spots Querying the ability, or inability, of a person or creature to change its basic nature or innate being Jeremiah 13:23 (NKJV) ‘Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Then may you also do good who are accustomed to do evil.” Carved in stone To make something permanent and/or unchangeable Exodus 31:18 (KJV) “And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” Cast in thy lot among us To choose to share in whatever happens to another person or a group Proverbs 1:14 (KJV) “Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse:” Cast into outer darkness Term referring to being banished or shut out Matthew 8:11-12 (KJV) “And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Cast the first stone To act self-righteously. Idiom meaning do not criticize how others behave unless you’re perfect yourself. John 8:7 (NKJV) “So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, "He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first." Chapter and verse Term meaning detailed information. This is a reference to the Bible and its authority. In 1551, this style was introduced with each book of the Bible being divided into Chapters, and then subdivided into verses. Charity begins at home The origin of Charity Begins at Home is usually not attributed to the Bible. One of the people most referenced as the author of this quote is Sir Thomas Browne, an English physician, writer and theologian: “But how shall we expect charity towards others, when we are uncharitable to ourselves? ‘Charity begins at home,’ is the voice of the world;” – Sir Thomas Browne, 1642. However, though it is not an exact quote from the Bible, the concept is definitely biblical. 1 Timothy 5:4 (NKJV) “But if any widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God.” 1 Timothy 5:8 (NKJV) “But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” Choke on a gnat and swallow a camel Phrase referring to emphasizing the unimportant while at the same time trivializing or ignoring the important Matthew 23:24 (KJV) “Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.” Chosen few A group of people who are special or different, typically in a way thought to be unfair Matthew 22:14 (KJV) “For many are called, but few are chosen.” Citizen of no mean city Phrase meaning a resident of a well-known city. Acts 21:39 (KJV) “But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.” Cloud no bigger than a man’s hand Phrase meaning an omen or warning 1 Kings 18:44 (KJV) “And it came to pass at the seventh time, that he said, Behold, there ariseth a little cloud out of the sea, like a man's hand. And he said, Go up, say unto Ahab, Prepare thy chariot, and get thee down, that the rain stop thee not.” Count the cost Phrase meaning to start to understand how badly something has affected you, or an admonition to consider how something will affect you that you are proposing/intending to do in the future. Luke 14:28 (NKJV) “For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it—“ Cover a multitude of sins Phrase meaning to compensate for numerous evils 1 Peter 4:8 (KJV) “And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” Cross to bear Burden that one has to endure Luke 14:27 (NKJV) “And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.” John 19:16-17 (KJV) “Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away. And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha:” Crown of glory (crowning glory) Meaning an outstanding accomplishment 1 Peter 5:4 (KJV) “And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.” 1 Corinthians 11:15 (KJV) “But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.” Crown of thorns A hardship which you have to accept; any affliction that causes great suffering Matthew 27:29 (NKJV) “When they had twisted a crown of thorns, they put it on His head, and a reed in His right hand. And they bowed the knee before Him and mocked Him, saying, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’" Daily bread Phrase referring to necessities of life Matthew 6:11 (NKJV) “Give us this day our daily bread.” Damascus road A phrase referring to a very important experience which changes your whole life Acts 9:3-9 (NKJV) “As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?" And he said, "Who are You, Lord?" Then the Lord said, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads." So he, trembling and astonished, said, "Lord, what do You want me to do?" Then the Lord said to him, "Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do." And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one. Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.” Daniel come to judgment One who wisely settles a difficult matter. This phrase is after the Biblical Daniel found for his wise judgment and dream interpretations Daniel 5:14 (KJV) “I have even heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods is in thee, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee.” Daniel in the lion’s den Term referring to a person facing a very intimidating or challenging situation. Based on the book of Daniel, Chapter 6 where Daniel is thrown into a den of lion’s, and survives through God’s protection. Darken counsel Phrase meaning to cloud the issue or prevent dialogue Job 38:1-2 (KJV) “Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge?” Darkness that can be felt Phrase referring to a darkness that has an oppressive or unnatural aspect Exodus 10:21 (NKJV) “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Stretch out your hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, darkness which may even be felt.’" David and Goliath Term used to describe an adversarial position where one of the antagonists is significantly mightier than the other in some capacity. 1 Samuel 17:4-7 (NKJV) “And a champion went out from the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, from Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. He had a bronze helmet on his head, and he was armed with a coat of mail, and the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of bronze. And he had bronze armor on his legs and a bronze javelin between his shoulders. Now the staff of his spear was like a weaver's beam, and his iron spearhead weighed six hundred shekels; and a shield-bearer went before him.” 1 Samuel 17:40-51 (NKJV) “Then he took his staff in his hand; and he chose for himself five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in a shepherd's bag, in a pouch which he had, and his sling was in his hand. And he drew near to the Philistine. So the Philistine came, and began drawing near to David, and the man who bore the shield went before him. And when the Philistine looked about and saw David, he disdained him; for he was only a youth, ruddy and good-looking. So the Philistine said to David, "Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?" And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. And the Philistine said to David, "Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field!" Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. Then all this assembly shall know that the LORD does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD'S, and He will give you into our hands." So it was, when the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, that David hastened and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. Then David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone; and he slung it and struck the Philistine in his forehead, so that the stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth. So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. But there was no sword in the hand of David. Therefore David ran and stood over the Philistine, took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him, and cut off his head with it. And when the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled.” Day of Judgment Reference to the end of the world, or, without capitalized letters, to retribution for one’s evil acts 2 Peter 3:7 (NKJV) “But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.” 1 John 4:17 (NKJV) “Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.” Revelation 20:11-15 (NKJV) “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.” Deaf as an adder Phrase meaning not good at hearing and/or understanding/comprehending Psalm 58:4 (KJV) “Their poison is like the poison of a serpent: they are like the deaf adder that stoppeth her ear;” Delilah, a Because of her exploits in seducing the mighty Sampson that eventually lead to his ultimate downfall, her name has become a euphenism for a seductress Judges 16:4-5 (NKJV) “Afterward it happened that he loved a woman in the Valley of Sorek, whose name was Delilah. And the lords of the Philistines came up to her and said to her, "Entice him, and find out where his great strength lies, and by what means we may overpower him, that we may bind him to afflict him; and every one of us will give you eleven hundred pieces of silver Den of thieves Immoral, dishonest, selfish and greedy people surrounding each other with no concern about doing anything for anyone, only stealing and taking as much as they can for themselves. Matthew 21:13 (KJV) “And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.” Die before your time Phrase meaning to die younger than one should Ecclesiastes 7:17 (NKJV) “Do not be overly wicked, Nor be foolish: Why should you die before your time?” Digging a hole for oneself To get yourself into a difficult situation Proverbs 26:27 (NKJV) “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, And he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him.” Ecclesiastes 10:8 (NKJV) “He who digs a pit will fall into it, And whoever breaks through a wall will be bitten by a serpent.” Divide the spoil Divvying up the loot or profit gained from an activity, as in from a war victory Isaiah 9:3 (KJV) “Thou hast multiplied the nation, and not increased the joy: they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, and as men rejoice when they divide the spoil.” Proverbs 16:18-19 (KJV) “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.” Do as I say, not as I do Self-deprecating phrase meaning to not follow one’s behavior, but follow their instructions Matthew 23:1-3 (NKJV) “Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to His disciples, saying: "The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do.” Do not lose heart Meaning to not become discouraged Luke 18:1 (NKJV) “Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart,” Do not muzzle the ox Do not deny a person/animal legitimate reward or some benefit from their labour to someone. 1 Timothy 5:18 (NKJV) “For the Scripture says, ‘You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain," and, "The laborer is worthy of his wages.’" Do unto others as you would have them do to you Proverb, often referred to as the “Golden Rule”, meaning that we should treat people as we would like to be treated Luke 6:31 (NKJV) “And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.” Do not cast your pearls before swine Do not waste good things on people who will not appreciate them, or to not waste wisdom or truth on people who are not prepared to receive it. Matthew 7:6 (NKJV) “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces.” Do not hide your light under a bushel basket Proverb meaning that we are given talents and abilities in order to help others. Selfishness only leads to sadness. Matthew 5:14-16 (NKJV) “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Do not let the sun go down on your anger Idiom giving advice to not give resentment a chance to grow or fester. It is meant to remind people not to harbor anger and let it fester. Before the end of any day a person should face the frustrations of that day and make amends for any angry tirades toward others. Ephesians 4:26 (NKJV) "’Be angry, and do not sin’: do not let the sun go down on your wrath,” Dog returning to its vomit (and a fool repeats his folly) A reference to someone returning to bad habits or wickedness of any sort. Proverbs 26:11 (NKJV) “As a dog returns to his own vomit, So a fool repeats his folly.” 2 Peter 2:22 (NKJV) “But it has happened to them according to the true proverb: ‘A dog returns to his own vomit,’ and, ‘a sow, having washed, to her wallowing in the mire.’" Doubting Thomas A skeptic who refuses to believe without direct personal experience John 20:24-29 (NKJV) “Now Thomas, called the Twin, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples therefore said to him, ‘We have seen the Lord.’ So he said to them, ‘Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.’ And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, ‘Peace to you!’ Then He said to Thomas, ‘Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.’ And Thomas answered and said to Him, ‘My Lord and my God!’ Jesus said to him, ‘Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’” Down to a T This means to the smallest detail. Matthew 5:18 (NKJV) “For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled.” This started the use of the term ‘to a tittle’ in reference to the most minute detail, which came into use in the early seventeenth century. Later this was shortened to ‘T’. Draw a bow at a venture To take a chance at something 2 Chronicles 18:33 (KJV) “And a certain man drew a bow at a venture, and smote the king of Israel between the joints of the harness: therefore he said to his chariot man, Turn thine hand, that thou mayest carry me out of the host; for I am wounded.” Drink it like water Drinking too much, usually alcohol Job 15:16 (NKJV) “How much less man, who is abominable and filthy, Who drinks iniquity like water!” Driving like Jehu A witty borrowing of the idea of driving, transferred from driving horses harnessed to a chariot to driving a motor vehicle 2 Kings 9:20 (NKJV) “So the watchman reported, saying, ‘He went up to them and is not coming back; and the driving is like the driving of Jehu the son of Nimshi, for he drives furiously!’" Drop in the bucket, A Something is only a very small portion of the whole Isaiah 40:15 (NKJV) “Behold, the nations are as a drop in a bucket, And are counted as the small dust on the scales; Look, He lifts up the isles as a very little thing.” Dust and Ashes Something that is very disappointing; with humble expression of grief or repentance Genesis 18:27 (NKJV) “Then Abraham answered and said, "Indeed now, I who am but dust and ashes have taken it upon myself to speak to the Lord:” Dust to dust A phrase used in funeral services indicating that physical bodies will decay back into the elements from which they were first composed. Genesis 3:19 (NKJV) “In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread Till you return to the ground, For out of it you were taken; For dust you are, And to dust you shall return." Eat and drink, for tomorrow we shall die, let us We should enjoy life as much as possible, because it will be over soon Isaiah 22:13 (NKJV) “But instead, joy and gladness, Slaying oxen and killing sheep, Eating meat and drinking wine: ‘Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die!’" Eleventh hour Phrase meaning at the last minute Matthew 20:9 (NKJV) “And when those came who were hired about the eleventh hour, they each received a denarius.” The workers hired at the eleventh hour received the same wages as those who were hired at the beginning of the work day. Since the signing of the armistice at the end of World War I, at the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month of 1918, the phrase “eleventh hour’ has come to prominence as meaning the last minute. Ends of the earth The furthest reaches of the land Zechariah 9:10 (NKJV) “I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim And the horse from Jerusalem; The battle bow shall be cut off. He shall speak peace to the nations; His dominion shall be 'from sea to sea, And from the River to the ends of the earth.'” Enemy is at the gate Phrase meaning trouble is near Psalm 127:5 (KJV) “Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.” Enter the lion’s den Phrase meaning to undergo an extreme test, or face overwhelming opposition. Based on the book of Daniel, Chapter 6 where Daniel is thrown into a den of lion’s, and survives through God’s protection. Escape the bear and fall to the lion Early American saying meaning to escape one peril only to fall into another Amos 5:19 (KJV) “As if a man did flee from a lion, and a bear met him; or went into the house, and leaned his hand on the wall, and a serpent bit him.” Escaped by the skin of my teeth To narrowly escape a perilous situation Job 19:20 (NKJV) My bone clings to my skin and to my flesh, And I have escaped by the skin of my teeth.” Ewe lamb Person’s most cherished possession 2 Samuel 12:3 (KJV) “But the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter.” Extend an olive branch An olive branch is a universal symbol of peace. This seems to offer a truce or propose a treaty of peace. The earliest mention of greenery from an olive tree is in the Bible, when the dove brought back an ‘olive leaf,’ possibly a twig containing leaves, to Noah after the waters of the great deluge subsided, which, like the rainbow, served as an emblem that the disaster was over and men could once again live at peace on earth.: Genesis 8:11 (NKJV) “Then the dove came to him in the evening, and behold, a freshly plucked olive leaf was in her mouth; and Noah knew that the waters had receded from the earth.” eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, An The notion that for every wrong done there should be a compensating measure of justice Matthew 5:38 (NKJV) "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.'” Eye to eye To agree about someone or something with someone else Isaiah 52:8 (NKJV) “Your watchmen shall lift up their voices, With their voices they shall sing together; For they shall see eye to eye When the LORD brings back Zion.” Eyes are the window to the soul, The The basis of this proverb is debatable. The eyes give clues to what someone is thinking. The underlying theme of this old adage is expressed in the Bible: Matthew 6:22-23 (NKJV) "The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” Face of the earth Phrase meaning the entire earth Genesis 4:14 (KJV) “Behold, thou hast driven me out this day from the face of the earth; and from thy face shall I be hid; and I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond in the earth; and it shall come to pass, that every one that findeth me shall slay me.” Genesis 6:7 (NKJV) “So the LORD said, "I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them." Jeremiah 25:26 (KJV) “And all the kings of the north, far and near, one with another, and all the kingdoms of the world, which are upon the face of the earth: and the king of Sheshach shall drink after them.” Luke 21:35 (NKJV) “For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth.” Faith that moves mountains A phrase used for someone possessing a very strong faith in something Matthew 17:20 (KJV) “And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.” Matthew 21:21 (NKJV) “So Jesus answered and said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' it will be done.” Fall by the wayside Phrase meaning to fail to finish an activity Matthew 13:4 (NKJV) “And as he sowed, some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds came and devoured them.” Fall from grace Term referring to falling out of favor. Used in a figurative manner to mean withdrawal from a position which is viewed as prestigious or looked up to with respect. Galatians 5:4 (NKJV) “You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.” Genesis, Chapter 3 – Adam and Eve’s being banished from the Garden of Eden Genesis 3:23 (NKJV) “therefore the LORD God sent him out of the garden of Eden to till the ground from which he was taken.” Fall of a sparrow Phrase meaning that even small things are important Matthew 10:29 (KJV) “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.” Fall on deaf ears Phrase meaning to refuse to hear Psalm 58:4 (KJV) “Their poison is like the poison of a serpent: they are like the deaf adder that stoppeth her ear;” Fall on one’s sword Figuratively, this idioim means to take responsibility, even though it causes personal harm, for the greater good. In a literal sense, it is derived form soldiers committing suicide by falling on a sward when death was inevitable as far back as ancient Israel. The first mention of the practice printed in English was in the Bilble. 1 Samuel 31:4-5 (NKJV) “Then Saul said to his armorbearer, ‘Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised men come and thrust me through and abuse me.’ But his armorbearer would not, for he was greatly afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword and fell on it. And when his armorbearer saw that Saul was dead, he also fell on his sword, and died with him.” Fall on stony ground Phrase meaning an idea that is presented that is not accepted and/or understood by the receiving party Mark 4:5-6 (KJV) “And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth: But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away.” Far be it from me A disassociation from something 2 Samuel 20:20 (KJV) “And Joab answered and said, Far be it, far be it from me, that I should swallow up or destroy.” Fat of the land Living well; fed by abundant crops Genesis 45:18 (NKJV) “Bring your father and your households and come to me; I will give you the best of the land of Egypt, and you will eat the fat of the land.” Fatted calf Metaphor or symbol of festive celebration and rejoicing for someone’s long awaited return 1 Samuel 28:24 (NKJV) “Now the woman had a fatted calf in the house, and she hastened to kill it. And she took flour and kneaded it, and baked unleavened bread from it.” Luke 15:27 (NKJV) “And he said to him, 'Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf.'” Fear of God, (put the fear of God into someone) Terrifying someone, to make someone feel very frightened Genesis 20:11 (KJV) “And Abraham said, Because I thought, Surely the fear of God is not in this place; and they will slay me for my wife's sake.” 2 Chronicles 20:29 (KJV) “And the fear of God was on all the kingdoms of those countries, when they had heard that the LORD fought against the enemies of Israel.” Nehemiah 5:15 (NKJV) “But the former governors who were before me laid burdens on the people, and took from them bread and wine, besides forty shekels of silver. Yes, even their servants bore rule over the people, but I did not do so, because of the fear of God.” Fear and trembling Phrase used to describe a high level of fear 2 Corinthians 7:15 (KJV) “And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.” Fearfully and wonderfully made Phrase referring to anything of a complex nature Psalm 139:14 (KJV) “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Feet of clay Feet of clay is an expression now commonly used to refer to a weakness or character flaw, especially in people of prominence. Daniel 2:31-33 (NKJV) "You, O king, were watching; and behold, a great image! This great image, whose splendor was excellent, stood before you; and its form was awesome. This image's head was of fine gold, its chest and arms of silver, its belly and thighs of bronze, its legs of iron, its feet partly of iron and partly of clay.” Fell on rocky ground Phrase meaning advice or idea that is ignored or unpopular Matthew 13:5 (NKJV) “Some fell on stony places, where they did not have much earth; and they immediately sprang up because they had no depth of earth.” Fight the good fight To fight a noble and well-intentioned battle 1 Timothy 6:12 (NKJV) “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” 2 Timothy 4:7 (NKJV) “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Filthy lucre Phrase referring to greed of money 1 Timothy 3:3 (KJV) “Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;” Titus 1:7 (KJV) “For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;” Fire and brimstone The punishment of hell Revelation 19:20 (NKJV) “Then the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who worked signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image. These two were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone.” Fire in his eyes Metaphor saying how eager/angry/passionate one is feeling at the moment Revelation 1:14 (KJV) “His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire;” First shall be last and the last shell be first An acknowledgement that a person’s estimation of their own importance may be very overrated and vice versa. Matthew 19:30 (NKJV) “But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” Flesh and blood One’s flesh and blood may refer to one’s family, or may denote all mankind. Also used to denote the living material of which people are mostly composed. Matthew 16:17 (NKJV) Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.’” Fleshpot (Flesh-pots of Egypt) The term “fleshpots”, from a biblical perspective, referred to actual pots of meat. Over time this term has come to mean temptation with a loss of morality, and a place offering entertainment of a sensual or luxurious nature. Exodus 16:3 (NKJV) “And the children of Israel said to them, ‘Oh, that we had died by the hand of the LORD in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the pots of meat and when we ate bread to the full! For you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger.’" Fly in the ointment As small annoyance that spoils an otherwise pleasant situation Ecclesiastes 10:1 (NKJV) “Dead flies putrefy the perfumer's ointment, And cause it to give off a foul odor; So does a little folly to one respected for wisdom and honor.” Follow in the steps of To carry on the behavior, work, or tradition of 1 Peter 2:21 (KJV) “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:” For everything there is a season There is an appropriate time for everything Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NKJV) “To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:” Forbidden fruit Phrase for something tempting, but prohibited Genesis 2:16-17 (NKJV) “And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, "Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die." In the Garden of Eden, God commanded that all the fruit was acceptable to eat except for that growing on the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Adam and Eve then broke God’s commandment to them, and partook of the “forbidden fruit.” Forgive and forget The roots of this saying come from the Bible. Forgiving is a command of Jesus, as in Matthew 6:14, but forgetting wrongs is attributed to God in Hebrews 8:12: Matthew 6:14 (NKJV) "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Hebrews 8:12 (NKJV) “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more." The saying itself, however, was first coine4d in English by Shakespeare in King Lear. Found wanting, weighed and Failing to meet expectations Daniel 5:27 (NKJV) “TEKEL: You have been weighed in the balances, and found wanting;” Four corners of the earth All parts of the earth Isaiah 11:12 (NKJV) “He will set up a banner for the nations, And will assemble the outcasts of Israel, And gather together the dispersed of Judah From the four corners of the earth.” From strength to strength To progress from one success to another higher level of success Psalm 84:7 (NKJV) “They go from strength to strength; Each one appears before God in Zion.” Fruit of your labor Rewards received from the work one performs Philippians 1:22 (NKJV) “But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell.” Fruit of your loins One’s offspring/children Genesis 35:11 (NKJV) “Also God said to him: "I am God Almighty. Be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall proceed from you, and kings shall come from your body.” Gall and wormwood Phrase referring to a bitter experience to endure Lamentations 3:19 (KJV) “Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall.” Gathered to your fathers Phrase referring to death, or to die Judges 2:10 (KJV) “And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, which knew not the LORD, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel.” Get thee behind me Satan A demand that anyone suggesting an alternative to the one proposed by the speaker should give way Luke 4:8 (NKJV) “And Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.' " Get your house in order To put one’s business or personal affairs into good order 2 Kings 20:1 (NKJV) “In those days Hezekiah was sick and near death. And Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, went to him and said to him, "Thus says the LORD: 'Set your house in order, for you shall die, and not live.' Gird your loins Prepare for strenuous activity 1 Kings 18:46 (NKJV) “Then the hand of the LORD came upon Elijah; and he girded up his loins and ran ahead of Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel.” Give credit where credit is due The acknowledgment should be to the person who deserves it Romans 13:7 (KJV) “Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.” Give up the ghost Idiom meaning to die, or in the case of inanimate objects, to cease working John 19:30 (NKJV) “So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, ‘It is finished!’ And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.” Gnashing of teeth Grinding of teeth; loud expressions of complaint, regret or remorse Matthew 25:30 (NKJV) “And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Go the extra mile To do more than what is asked Matthew 5:41 (NKJV) “And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two.” Go the way of all flesh To die; to follow a course leading to death or extinction 1 Kings 2:2 (KJV) “I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and shew thyself a man;” God and mammon Phrase referring to the choice of serving/following after God or the wealth of the world Matthew 6:24 (KJV) “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Golden calf False ideal, or money as an object of worship Exodus 32:2-4 (NKJV) “And Aaron said to them, ‘Break off the golden earrings which are in the ears of your wives, your sons, and your daughters, and bring them to me.’ So all the people broke off the golden earrings which were in their ears, and brought them to Aaron. And he received the gold from their hand, and he fashioned it with an engraving tool, and made a molded calf. Then they said, ‘This is your god, O Israel, that brought you out of the land of Egypt!’" Goliath A person or thing of colossal power or achievement 1 Samuel 17:4-7 (NKJV) “And a champion went out from the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, from Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. He had a bronze helmet on his head, and he was armed with a coat of mail, and the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of bronze. And he had bronze armor on his legs and a bronze javelin between his shoulders. Now the staff of his spear was like a weaver's beam, and his iron spearhead weighed six hundred shekels; and a shield-bearer went before him.” Good Samaritan Charitable person, or someone helping others in a time of distress; a doer of good deeds Luke 10:30-37 (NKJV) “Then Jesus answered and said: ‘A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, 'Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.' So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?’ And he said, ‘He who showed mercy on him.’ Then Jesus said to him, ‘Go and do likewise.’” Good shepherd Reference to a faithful and honorable leader of people John 10:11 (NKJV) “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.” (the) Gospel according to An expression used to make fun of someone who thinks they know it all. Three of the four gospels have this expression in their title. (the) Gospel truth A thing that is absolutely true; an unquestionable truth Galatians 2:5 (NKJV) “to whom we did not yield submission even for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.” Ephesians 1:13 (NKJV) “In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,” Colossians 1:5 (NKJV) “because of the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, of which you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel,” Grapes of wrath An image of vengeance Revelation 14:19 (NKJV) “So the angel thrust his sickle into the earth and gathered the vine of the earth, and threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of God.” Graven image A carved idol or representation of a god used as an object of worship Exodus 20:4 (KJV) “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth:” Great I am, the Conspicuously self-important person, (jokingly) the boss Exodus 3:14 (KJV) “And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.” Greater love hath no man The greatest sacrifice you can make for another John 15:13 (KJV) “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Grind the face of someone (face of the poor) Phrase meaning to govern harshly Isaiah 3:15 (KJV) “What mean ye that ye beat my people to pieces, and grind the faces of the poor? saith the Lord GOD of hosts.” Handwriting is on the wall Phrase meaning danger or trouble is immanent Daniel 5:5-6 (KJV) “In the same hour came forth fingers of a man's hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaster of the wall of the king's palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote. Then the king's countenance was changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees smote one against another.” Hanging in the balance A metaphoric phrase alluding to someone being in a precarious state, figuratively speaking, in which the outcome is unclear, and may go one of two ways depending upon circumstances. Deuteronomy 28:66 (NKJV) “Your life shall hang in doubt before you; you shall fear day and night, and have no assurance of life.” Hard-hearted/Harden one’s heart (This phrase has questionable origins, but derived/influenced by the Bible) Incapable of being moved to pity or tenderness; unfeeling Exodus 7:3 (NKJV) “And I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and multiply My signs and My wonders in the land of Egypt.” Exodus 4:21 (NKJV) “And the LORD said to Moses, "When you go back to Egypt, see that you do all those wonders before Pharaoh which I have put in your hand. But I will harden his heart, so that he will not let the people go.” He who lives by the sword, dies by the sword If you use violent, forceful, or underhanded methods against other people, you can expect those same methods to be used against you; violence begets violence Matthew 26:52 (NKJV) “But Jesus said to him, "Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword.” Head on a platter (I’ll have his head on a platter) To want someone’s head on a platter is to want them to receive punishment for their actions Matthew 14:6-11 (NKJV) “But when Herod's birthday was celebrated, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod. Therefore he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. So she, having been prompted by her mother, said, "Give me John the Baptist's head here on a platter." And the king was sorry; nevertheless, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he commanded it to be given to her. So he sent and had John beheaded in prison. And his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother.” Heap coals of fire on one’s head Phrase referring to doing good to your enemies, or conversely, to make one feel remorse Proverbs 25:21-22 (KJV) “If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee.” Heart of stone Unfeeling, uncaring, without proper human response Ezekiel 11:19 (NKJV) “Then I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within them, and take the stony heart out of their flesh, and give them a heart of flesh,” Heavy heart Sorrowful; melancholy; dejected Proverbs 25:20 (KJV) “As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart.” Here today and gone tomorrow Lacking permanence, fleeting. What is present or important now may be absent or irrelevant in the future Matthew 6:30 (KJV) “Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?” Hewers of wood and drawers of water Phrase meaning lowest level workers Joshua 9:21 (KJV) “And the princes said unto them, Let them live; but let them be hewers of wood and drawers of water unto all the congregation; as the princes had promised them.” Hide your light under a bushel Phrase meaning to conceal one’s abilities out of modesty Matthew 5:15 (KJV) “Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.” Hip and thigh Completely overpower; to inflict vicious defeat and damage upon someone Judges 15:8 (NKJV) “So he attacked them hip and thigh with a great slaughter; then he went down and dwelt in the cleft of the rock of Etam.” Holier than thou Meaning to be offensively self-righteous Isaiah 65:5 (NKJV) “Who say, 'Keep to yourself, Do not come near me, For I am holier than you!' These are smoke in My nostrils, A fire that burns all the day.” Hollow of one’s hand Having control of a situation, the concave bowl made by the cupped hand Isaiah 40:12 (NKJV) “Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand, Measured heaven with a span And calculated the dust of the earth in a measure? Weighed the mountains in scales And the hills in a balance?” Holy Land Referring to Israel Zechariah 2:12 (NKJV) “And the LORD will take possession of Judah as His inheritance in the Holy Land, and will again choose Jerusalem.” Honor your father and mother Term meaning to be respectful to one’s parents Exodus 20:12 (NKJV) "Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you.” Hope against hope To cling to a mere possibility Romans 4:18 (NKJV) “who, contrary to hope, in hope believed, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was spoken,’"So shall your descendants be.’” Hope deferred makes the heart sick When one’s hopes are not fulfilled one tends to feel let down and despairing Proverbs 13:12 (NKJV) “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life.” House divided against itself cannot stand, A Meaning that any nation, organization, family, club, church, etc. which has a great rift is destined to fall. Matthew 12:25 (NKJV) “But Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them: "Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.” How are the mighty fallen The previously powerful are now reduced 2 Samuel 1:19 (NKJV) "The beauty of Israel is slain on your high places! How the mighty have fallen!” Howling wilderness Phrase referring to a scary place or situation; a wild, desolate place inhabited only by wild beasts Deuteronomy 32:10 (NKJV) "He found him in a desert land And in the wasteland, a howling wilderness; He encircled him, He instructed him, He kept him as the apple of His eye.” Ichabod Used to express regret for departed glory 1 Samuel 4:21 (NKJV) “Then she named the child Ichabod, saying, "The glory has departed from Israel!" because the ark of God had been captured and because of her father-in-law and her husband.” If you are not with me, you are against me Indifference to a cause can be as unsupportive as outright opposition Matthew 12:30 (NKJV) “He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad.” In the beginning… One of the most well-known phrases from the Bilbe, used at the start of speeches, articles, etc. adapted to fit the relevant topic. Genesis 1:1 (NKJV) “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” In the heat of battle In the most intense of active stage of the battle 2 Samuel 11:15 (NKJV) “And he wrote in the letter, saying, ‘Set Uriah in the forefront of the hottest battle, and retreat from him, that he may be struck down and die.’” In the twinkling of an eye To happen very quickly, in an instant 1 Corinthians 15:52 (NKJV) “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” Iron Sharpens Iron As rubbing iron knifes against each other will sharpen each knife, so will people of character strengthen each other when they share company together Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV) “As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” It rains on the just and on the unjust Meaning that good and bad come to all people Matthew 5:45 (NKJV) “…that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” It is better to be thought of a foolish than to open your mouth and remove all doubts Meaning that one should think before speaking Proverbs 17:28 (NKJV) “Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive.” Jezebel, a A wicked, selfish, and morally corrupt woman. 1 Kings 18:4 (NKJV) “For so it was, while Jezebel massacred the prophets of the LORD, that Obadiah had taken one hundred prophets and hidden them, fifty to a cave, and had fed them with bread and water.” 1 Kings 21:25 (NKJV) “But there was no one like Ahab who sold himself to do wickedness in the sight of the LORD, because Jezebel his wife stirred him up.” 2 Kings 9:22 (NKJV) “Now it happened, when Joram saw Jehu, that he said, ‘Is it peace, Jehu?’ So he answered, ‘What peace, as long as the harlotries of your mother Jezebel and her witchcraft are so many?’" Revelation 2:20 (NKJV) “Nevertheless I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols.” Job’s Comforters Someone who tries to make you feel happier but makes you feel worse instead A reference to the men in the book of Job who were friends of Job, and came to him with the goal to comfort him. Unfortunately, their words were anything but comforting. Jot and tittle A tiny amount Matthew 5:18 (NKJV) “For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled.” Jonah Sailors traditionally use the name Jonah to personify someone who brings bad luck. Jonah 1:13-17 (NKJV) “Nevertheless the men rowed hard to return to land, but they could not, for the sea continued to grow more tempestuous against them. Therefore they cried out to the LORD and said, ‘We pray, O LORD, please do not let us perish for this man's life, and do not charge us with innocent blood; for You, O LORD, have done as it pleased You.’ So they picked up Jonah and threw him into the sea, and the sea ceased from its raging. Then the men feared the LORD exceedingly, and offered a sacrifice to the LORD and took vows. Now the LORD had prepared a great fish to swallow Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.” Judas One who betrays another Matthew 10:4 (NKJV) “Simon the Cananite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him.” Judas kiss A betrayal, a betraying action Matthew 26:49 (NKJV) “Immediately he went up to Jesus and said, ‘Greetings, Rabbi!’ and kissed Him.” Jump for joy To be extremely happy Luke 6:23 (NKJV) “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! For indeed your reward is great in heaven, For in like manner their fathers did to the prophets.” Jumping Jehoshaphat Exact derivation uncertain, but generally assumed relates to King Jehoshaphat in the Bible. 1 Kings 15:24 (NKJV) “So Asa rested with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the City of David his father. Then Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his place.” Keep the faith To keep one’s faith in something; continue to support someone or something 2 Timothy 4:7 (NKJV) “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Keys to the kingdom Originating from the concept of resources that were the means of obtaining control over an actual kingdom. Phrase referring to obtaining control over something. Matthew 16:19 (NKJV) “And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." Kick against the pricks/goads To rebel against the directed correct direction/path Acts 9:5 (NKJV) “And he said, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ Then the Lord said, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’" Kill the fatted calf To celebrate lavishly, usually including a meal, especially in an act of welcome Luke 15:23 (KJV) “And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:” Kind words turn away anger Gracious words spoken to an angry person can defuse their anger Proverbs 15:1 (NKJV) “A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.” King of terrors Meaning death personified Job 18:14 (KJV) “His confidence shall be rooted out of his tabernacle, and it shall bring him to the king of terrors.” Kiss of death An action or event that causes certain failure to an enterprise Matthew 26:48-50 (NKJV) “Now His betrayer had given them a sign, saying, ‘Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him.’ Immediately he went up to Jesus and said, ‘Greetings, Rabbi!’ and kissed Him. But Jesus said to him, ‘Friend, why have you come?’ Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him.” Knees knocked together Phrase referring to being in great fear Daniel 5:6 (NKJV) “Then the king's countenance changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his hips were loosened and his knees knocked against each other.” Laborer is worthy of his hire Meaning a worker deserves his wages; someone should be properly recompensed for their effort Luke 10:7 (KJV) “And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.” Labor of love A task done for pleasure, or benefit of a loved one, and not for reward 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 (NKJV) “We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father,” Hebrews 6:10 (NKJV) “For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” Lamb to the slaughter, Like a This means a person has been ‘sacrificed’ for a cause. Helpless, innocent or naïve victim of sacrifice or catastrophe. Jeremiah 11:19 (NKJV) “But I was like a docile lamb brought to the slaughter; and I did not know that they had devised schemes against me, saying, "Let us destroy the tree with its fruit, and let us cut him off from the land of the living, that his name may be remembered no more." Isaiah 53:7 (NKJV) “He was oppressed and He was afflicted, Yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, And as a sheep before its shearers is silent, So He opened not His mouth.” Romans 8:36 (NKJV) “As it is written: ‘For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.’" Land of (flowing with) milk and honey Metaphor meaning all good things; place where luxuries are plentiful and easily acquired Exodus 3:8 (NKJV) “So I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up from that land to a good and large land, to a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of the Canaanites and the Hittites and the Amorites and the Perizzites and the Hivites and the Jebusites.” Land of Nod The “land of nod” refers to a mythical place we go when we go to sleep, or “nod off.” Its origin dates back to early linquistic joking with associating “nodding off” with the biblical “land of Nod.” One of the earliest records of this was in the writing of Dean Jonathan Swift, “Lady Answ. I'm sure 'tis time for honest Folks to be a-bed. Miss. Indeed my Eyes draws Straw. Col. I'm going to the Land of Nod. Neverout. Faith, I'm for Bedfordshire.” (A complete collection of genteel and ingenious conversation, 1738) Genesis 4:16 (NKJV) “Then Cain went out from the presence of the LORD and dwelt in the land of Nod on the east of Eden.” Land of the living To be awake or alive Job 28:13 (NKJV) “Man does not know its value, Nor is it found in the land of the living.” Psalm 27:13 (NKJV) “I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.” Isaiah 38:11 (NKJV) “I said, "I shall not see YAH, The LORD in the land of the living; I shall observe man no more among the inhabitants of the world.” Jeremiah 11:19 (NKJV) “But I was like a docile lamb brought to the slaughter; and I did not know that they had devised schemes against me, saying, ‘Let us destroy the tree with its fruit, and let us cut him off from the land of the living, that his name may be remembered no more.’" Laughed to scorn To deride, to treat with mockery, contempt, scorn Psalm 22:7 (KJV) “All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying,” Laughter is the best medicine Affirmation of the traditional belief in the beneficial effects of laughter upon health Proverbs 17:22 (KJV) “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.” Law of the Medes and Persians Phrase meaning something that cannot change Daniel 6:8 (KJV) “Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not.” Law unto themselves To behave in a way this is independent and does not follow the usual rules of a situation; a person or thing that is outside established laws Romans 2:14 (NKJV) “for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves,” Left hand does not know what the right hand is doing Communication with an organization or group is so poor that no one knows what others are doing Matthew 6:3 (NKJV) “But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,” Lead you by the nose To dominate or control someone Isaiah 37:29 (KJV) “Because thy rage against me, and thy tumult, is come up into mine ears, therefore will I put my hook in thy nose, and my bridle in thy lips, and I will turn thee back by the way by which thou camest.” Leopard cannot change its spots A proverb meaning someone is what they are by their intrinsic nature. They do not usually change, even though they may try to convince others that they have truly changed, and that they will ultimately go back to their old nature. Jeremiah 13:23 (NKJV) “Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Then may you also do good who are accustomed to do evil.” Let he who is without sin cast the first stone Only those who are faultless have the right to pass judgment upon others (implying that no one is faultless and that, therefore, no one has such a right to pass judgment John 8:7 (NKJV) “So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, ‘He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.’" Let not the sun go down on your wrath Do not go to bed angry Ephesians 4:26-27 (NKJV) "’Be angry, and do not sin’: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.” Let the dead bury their dead Phrase meaning to let others do their own business. Past problems, quarrels, etc. are best forgotten. Matthew 8:22 (KJV) “But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.” Letter of the law Denote the strict interpretation of an ordinance, law, or regulation 2 Corinthians 3:6 (NKJV) “who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” Letter of the law vs. Spirit of the law Denote the strict interpretation of an ordinance, law, or regulation versus the following of the spirit/purpose/goal of the law 2 Corinthians 3:6 (NKJV) “who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” Leviathan Idiom referring to any big creature or powerful machine, usually of a type associated with water Job 41:1 (NKJV) "Can you draw out Leviathan with a hook, Or snare his tongue with a line which you lower?” Like a thief in the night Phrase referring to an event that happens unexpectedly and unpredictably, such as sudden death Matthew 24:43 (NKJV) “But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into.” Like father like son (Like mother like daughter) Sons tend to do what their fathers did before them; sons behave as their fathers Ezekiel 16:44 (NKJV) "Indeed everyone who quotes proverbs will use this proverb against you: 'Like mother, like daughter!'” Like putty in my hand If someone is putty in your hands, then they will do anything you want them to do Jeremiah 18:6 (KJV) “O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the LORD. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel.” Lion shall lie down with the lamb Phrase referring to a future peace for which hoped Isaiah 65:25 (KJV) “The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust shall be the serpent's meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD.” Lip service Addressing an issue with talk only, and no associated action or true inner concern Isaiah 29:13 (KJV) “Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:” Matthew 15:8 (KJV) “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.” Little bird told me, a To refuse to disclose the source of one’s information Ecclesiastes 10:20 (KJV) “Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.” Living off the fat of the land Living well; fed by abundant crops Genesis 45:17-18 (NKJV) “And Pharaoh said to Joseph, "Say to your brothers, 'Do this: Load your animals and depart; go to the land of Canaan. Bring your father and your households and come to me; I will give you the best of the land of Egypt, and you will eat the fat of the land.” Lost sheep Phrase referring to people who have lost their way in life or a situation Matthew 10:6 (NKJV) “But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” Matthew 15:24 (NKJV) “But He answered and said, ‘I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’" Love covers a multitude of sins Often used of romantic love where one partner forgives the other. 1 Peter 4:8 (NKJV) “And above all things have fervent love for one another, for ‘love will cover a multitude of sins.’" Love of money is the root of all evil, The Money unto itself is not evil, but the love of and for money. 1 Timothy 6:10 (NKJV) “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” Love your neighbor Idiom meaning to be kind and considerate to those around you Romans 13:9 (NKJV) “For the commandments, ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ ‘You shall not covet,’ and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’" Make light of To treat as insignificant or triffling Matthew 22:5 (KJV) “But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise:” Make short work of To finish something quickly Romans 9:28 (KJV) “For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth.” Make your hair stand on end To terrify someone Job 4:15 (KJV) “Then a spirit passed before my face; the hair of my flesh stood up:” Making bricks without straw Doing a job without proper equipment or materials Exodus 5:7 (NKJV) "You shall no longer give the people straw to make brick as before. Let them go and gather straw for themselves.” Man after my own heart A kindred spirit; someone with which one can agree 1 Samuel 13:14 (NKJV) “But now your kingdom shall not continue. The LORD has sought for Himself a man after His own heart, and the LORD has commanded him to be commander over His people, because you have not kept what the LORD commanded you." Acts 13:22 (NKJV) “And when He had removed him, He raised up for them David as king, to whom also He gave testimony and said, “'I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.'” Man does not live by bread alone Physical nourishment is not sufficient for a healthy life; man also has spiritual needs Matthew 4:4 (NKJV) “But He answered and said, ‘It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.' " Manna from heaven Unexpected gift or source of benefit Exodus 16:14-15 (KJV) “And when the dew that lay was gone up, behold, upon the face of the wilderness there lay a small round thing, as small as the hoar frost on the ground. And when the children of Israel saw it, they said one to another, It is manna: for they wist not what it was. And Moses said unto them, This is the bread which the LORD hath given you to eat.” Many are called, but few are chosen Lots of people might desire or want something but only a few are suitable to receive it Matthew 22:14 (NKJV) “For many are called, but few are chosen." Many waters cannot quench love Love is unconquerable Song of Songs 8:7 (NKJV) “Many waters cannot quench love, Nor can the floods drown it. If a man would give for love All the wealth of his house, It would be utterly despised.” Mark my words The word ‘mark’ since the twelfth century has been used by writes and in conversation to mean ‘head.’ The earliest example of “mark my words” known is in Coverdale’s 1535 translation of the Bible, Isaiah: Isaiah 28:23 (KJV) “Give ye ear, and hear my voice; hearken, and hear my speech.” This is also used as ‘mark my word,’ but in every case the speaker intended for the hearer to pay close attention, because what he or she was saying was most definitely true, in the speaker’s opinion, and usually a prediction of something certain to happen because of the chain of events which had already transpired. Mark of Cain Phrase meaning an identifying stigma Genesis 4:14-15 (KJV) “Behold, thou hast driven me out this day from the face of the earth; and from thy face shall I be hid; and I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond in the earth; and it shall come to pass, that every one that findeth me shall slay me. And the LORD said unto him, Therefore whosoever slayeth Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold. And the LORD set a mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him.” Mark of the beast Idiom usually metaphorically applied to someone who is habitually wicked Revelation 16:2 (NKJV) “So the first went and poured out his bowl upon the earth, and a foul and loathsome sore came upon the men who had the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image.” Meek shall inherit the earth Phrase referring to God’s people to someday owning the world Psalm 37:11 (KJV) “But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.” Meet your maker People using this expression are referring to God. It refers to the Christian belief that when we die, we are called to account for our lives before God. So if I say I'm "ready to meet my maker", I mean that I am ready to give God an accounting of my life; I am ready die. Amos 4:12 (KJV) “Therefore thus will I do unto thee, O Israel: and because I will do this unto thee, prepare to meet thy God, O Israel.” Mess of pottage Something immediately attractive but of little value taken foolishly and carelessly in exchange for something more distant and perhaps less tangible but immensely more valuable Genesis 25:29-34 (NKJV) “Now Jacob cooked a stew; and Esau came in from the field, and he was weary. And Esau said to Jacob, "Please feed me with that same red stew, for I am weary." Therefore his name was called Edom. But Jacob said, "Sell me your birthright as of this day." And Esau said, "Look, I am about to die; so what is this birthright to me?" Then Jacob said, "Swear to me as of this day." So he swore to him, and sold his birthright to Jacob. And Jacob gave Esau bread and stew of lentils; then he ate and drank, arose, and went his way. Thus Esau despised his birthright.” Millstone around one’s neck Thing or person acting as an encumberance Matthew 18:6 (KJV) “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” Money is the root of all evil Money unto itself is not evil, but the love of money. Money has supported many great endeavors of the Lord. This phrase is a misquotation of I Timothy: 1 Timothy 6:10 (NKJV) “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” More blessed to give than to receive, It is It is a better thing, and more rewarding to give to others than to receive from others Acts 20:35 (NKJV) “I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' " More than a heart could wish Beyond expectations Psalm 73:7 (NKJV) “Their eyes bulge with abundance; They have more than heart could wish.” Moses basket A portable cradle for a baby, often made of straw or wicker Exodus 2:3 (NKJV) “But when she could no longer hide him, she took an ark of bulrushes for him, daubed it with asphalt and pitch, put the child in it, and laid it in the reeds by the river's bank.” Mote in the eye -- beam/plank in one’s own eye Phrase referring to accusing others of faults that you have. A reference to the hypocrisy of someone noticing the minor faults of others yet ignoring their own major failings. Matthew 7:3 (KJV) “And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?” Mountain top experience Phrase referring to having an exceptional and monumental experience Matthew 17:1-3 (KJV) “And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.” My cup runneth over Having more than enough for your needs Psalm 23:5 (NKJV) “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.” Nail someone to the cross Phrase meaning to prove, accuse or punish another Origin: Reference to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ Colossians 2:14 (KJV) “Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;” Naked you came into this world, and naked you shall go out One cannot take any world possessions with them when they die Job 1:21 (NKJV) “And he said: ‘Naked I came from my mother's womb, And naked shall I return there. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; Blessed be the name of the LORD.’" Nest of vipers A group of iniquitous people, congregating together Matthew 3:7 (NKJV) “But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, "Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?” Nimrod Originally from the Biblical Nimrod, a mighty hunter, it has come to mean socially inadequate Genesis 10:8-9 (NKJV) “Cush begot Nimrod; he began to be a mighty one on the earth. He was a mighty hunter before the LORD; therefore it is said, ‘Like Nimrod the mighty hunter before the LORD.’" No abiding city A reference to a sense that things are transient and do not last or stay the same Hebrews 13:14 (NKJV) “For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come.” No man can serve two masters The meaning is literal, but also applies in the text to serving self and money while pretending to serve God. Matthew 6:24 (KJV) “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” No respecter of persons Phrase referring to one not giving special treatment to another in regards to their perceived position Acts 10:34-35 (KJV) “Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.” No rest for the wicked Said when you must continue with your work or other activity although you are very tired (comic effect) Isaiah 57:21 (NKJV) "’There is no peace’ Says my God, ‘for the wicked.’" No room at the inn Jocularly used to mean no room anywhere. Luke 2:7 (NKJV) “And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Nothing new under the sun Things are as they have always been Ecclesiastes 1:9 (NKJV) “That which has been is what will be, That which is done is what will be done, And there is nothing new under the sun.” O death where is thy sting There is no need to be scared of dying 1 Corinthians 15:55 (NKJV) "O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?" O ye of little faith This is the rebuke levelled at the disciples of Christ, when seeming to doubt his divinity. The phrase is also more widely used to describe any Christian doubter. In a secular setting it may be intended as a humorous jibe when doubting someone's abilities. Luke 12:28 (NKJV) “If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith?” Old wives tales A superstition or traditional belief or piece of wisdom that is regarded as unscientific or incorrect, usually foolish; referring to a teaching, thought to have been born from superstition and passed down by ‘gossip.’ 1 Timothy 4:7 (NKJV) “But reject profane and old wives' fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.” Old Adam The evil supposedly inherent in human nature 1 Corinthians 15:45 (NKJV) “And so it is written, ‘The first man Adam became a living being.’ The last Adam became a life-giving spirit.” Old as Methuselah An image of extreme age. Genesis 5:27 (NKJV) “So all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred and sixty-nine years; and he died.” Methusaleh was the son of Enoch, and lived to the age of 969 – the oldest man in the Bible. Old Adam Phrase referring to corrupt human nature Romans 6:6 (KJV) “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” Older than (or as old as) the hills The intent came from a verse in the Bible: Job 15:7 (KJV) “Art thou the first man that was born? or wast thou made before the hills?” On all fours On hands and knees (of an animal) on all four legs rather than just the hind ones Leviticus 11:42 (KJV) “Whatsoever goeth upon the belly, and whatsoever goeth upon all four, or whatsoever hath more feet among all creeping things that creep upon the earth, them ye shall not eat; for they are an abomination.” On your own head, let it be When one takes full responsibility for one’s decisions, or receives the (unpleasant) results of one’s actions; Used to tell someone that they will have to take full responsibility for what they plan to do Psalm 7:16 (NKJV) “His trouble shall return upon his own head, And his violent dealing shall come down on his own crown.” Acts 18:6 (NKJV) “But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, ‘Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.’" Out of the ark Phrase meaning very old. Reference to Noah’s Ark, Genesis chapters 6 thru 8. Out of the mouths of babes Said when a child says something that surprises you because it seems very wise Psalm 8:2 (NKJV) “Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have ordained strength, Because of Your enemies, That You may silence the enemy and the avenger.” Matthew 21:16 (NKJV) “and said to Him, ‘Do You hear what these are saying?’ And Jesus said to them, ‘Yes. Have you never read, 'Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise'?’" Paid the last penny Fully paid with nothing omitted Matthew 5:26 (NKJV) “Assuredly, I say to you, you will by no means get out of there till you have paid the last penny.” Painted Jezebel Shameless, immoral, scheming woman. Queen Jezebel, the wife of Ahab, introduced false religion, idol worship, witchcraft, and whoredom to Israel. Biblical reference was also made to her use of cosmetics. 2 Kings 9:30 (KJV) “And when Jehu was come to Jezreel, Jezebel heard of it; and she painted her face, and tired her head, and looked out at a window.” Parting of the ways A point at which two people must separate or at which a decision must be taken Ezekiel 21:21 (KJV) “For the king of Babylon stood at the parting of the way, at the head of the two ways, to use divination: he made his arrows bright, he consulted with images, he looked in the liver.” Patience of Job Phrase meaning to be very patient James 5:11 (NKJV) Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord--that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.” Patience of the saints Phrase meaning to be very patient Revelation 14:12 (KJV) “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Peace offering Something offered to an adversary in the hope or obtaining peace Leviticus 3:6 (NKJV) “'If his offering as a sacrifice of a peace offering to the LORD is of the flock, whether male or female, he shall offer it without blemish.’” Pearl of great price Something of great value Matthew 13:45-46 (KJV) “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.” (cast) Pearls before swine Giving something of value to someone that does not have an appreciation for the value Matthew 7:6 (NKJV) “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces.” Pearly gates Reference to heaven Revelation 21:21 (KJV) “And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.” People in hell want ice water, too Phrase meaning that just because you want something does not mean you can have it. Luke 16:23-24 (NKJV) “And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. Then he cried and said, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.'” Philistine Someone who despises culture. The Philistines were the main opponents of the Israelites in the early days of the Israelite monarchy. Their reputation for being opposed to culture depends on their enmity against Israel. Judges 13:1 (NKJV) “Again the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and the LORD delivered them into the hand of the Philistines for forty years.” Physician heal yourself Phrase meaning for one to attend to their own faults or to take care of their own problems, instead of pointing out the faults of others or looking for others to take care of their problems. Luke 4:23 (NKJV) “He said to them, "You will surely say this proverb to Me, 'Physician, heal yourself! Whatever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in Your country.' " Play the fool To act in a silly manner in order to amuse other people; to act in a foolish manner 1 Samuel 26:21 (KJV) “Then said Saul, I have sinned: return, my son David: for I will no more do thee harm, because my soul was precious in thine eyes this day: behold, I have played the fool, and have erred exceedingly.” Pontius Pilate Person who refuses to take responsibility for their own actions, especially wrong ones, person in authority who is weak, hypocritical or given to self-deception Matthew 27:11-25 (KJV) “And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest. And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee? And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly. Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would. And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas. Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ? For he knew that for envy they had delivered him. When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him. But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus. The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you? They said, Barabbas. Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified. And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified. When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.” Pour one’s heart out Express one’s innermost thoughts and feelings to someone else Psalm 62:8 (NKJV) “Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah” Lamentations 2:19 (NKJV) "Arise, cry out in the night, At the beginning of the watches; Pour out your heart like water before the face of the Lord. Lift your hands toward Him For the life of your young children, Who faint from hunger at the head of every street." Powers of darkness Phrase referring to evil and/or satanic authority Colossians 1:13 (KJV) “Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:” Powers that be Phrase referring to those in authority Romans 13:1-2 (NKJV) “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves.” Practice what you preach Phrase meaning that one should not be hypocritical, and to do the things they are telling others to do Matthew 23:3 (KJV) “All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.” There is no clear-cut answer to who said it exactly the way we use it today, but the verse from Matthew clearly conveys the point. Prepare to meet your god (maker) Be ready to die Amos 4:12 (NKJV) "Therefore thus will I do to you, O Israel; Because I will do this to you, Prepare to meet your God, O Israel!" Pride goes before a fall Pride will ultimately lead to failure. This has its origin in the Bible, but is a misstatement. Proverbs 16:18 (NKJV) “Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.” Prodigal son Term portraying a rebellious person who leaves home to live a dissolute life, and then to return home humbly to live life right. Lavishly wasteful (young) man. Luke 15:11-32 (NKJV) “Then He said: "A certain man had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father, 'Father, give me the portion of goods that falls to me.' So he divided to them his livelihood. And not many days after, the younger son gathered all together, journeyed to a far country, and there wasted his possessions with prodigal living. But when he had spent all, there arose a severe famine in that land, and he began to be in want. Then he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods that the swine ate, and no one gave him anything. But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants." ' And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his servants, 'Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. 23 And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' And they began to be merry. Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, 'Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf.' But he was angry and would not go in. Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him. So he answered and said to his father, 'Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might make merry with my friends. But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him.' And he said to him, 'Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.' " Promised land, the Place or state of affairs believed to offer final realization of hope Hebrews 11:9 (KJV) “By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:” Prophet is without honor in his own house, a Everyone recognizes that a wise person is wise, except for the people close to them Matthew 13:57 (KJV) “And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house.” Put the fear of God into someone This means to cause someone to have a great deal of reverence or profound respect for someone or something, or to terrify someone to the point they are ready to take action about something. Fear of God is biblical in origin: Genesis 22:12 (KJV) “And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou anything unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.” 2 Samuel 23:3 (KJV) “The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.” 2 Chronicles 20:29 (KJV) “And the fear of God was on all the kingdoms of those countries, when they had heard that the LORD fought against the enemies of Israel.” 2 Corinthians 7:1 (NKJV) “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” Ephesians 5:21 (KJV) “Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.” Put words in one’s mouth Phrase meaning to tell someone else what to say 2 Samuel 14:3 (NKJV) “’Go to the king and speak to him in this manner." So Joab put the words in her mouth.” Put your hand to the plow To embark on a task Luke 9:62 (KJV) “And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Put your house in order Put your affairs in order, generally in reference to impending death or upcoming dire circumstances 2 Kings 20:1 (NKJV) “In those days Hezekiah was sick and near death. And Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, went to him and said to him, "Thus says the LORD: 'Set your house in order, for you shall die, and not live.' " Put your life in someone’s hands To put yourself in a situation where someone else is responsible for what happens to you or for whether you live or die 1 Samuel 19:5 (KJV) “For he did put his life in his hand, and slew the Philistine, and the LORD wrought a great salvation for all Israel: thou sawest it, and didst rejoice: wherefore then wilt thou sin against innocent blood, to slay David without a cause?” Quick and the dead, the All souls – alive or dead 2 Timothy 4:1 (KJV) “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;” Race is not to the swift Victory does not always go to the fastest or strongest, but to those who persevere and are willing to push themselves Ecclesiastes 9:11 (KJV) “I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.” Raise Cain Causing trouble or creating an uproar.Refers to the story I the Bible about the evil brother Cain, who killed his righteous brother Able. Canis’ name became associated with wild behavior. If you get furious enough to cause a loud disturbance and make trouble , then you’re “raising Cain.” 1 John 3:11-12 (NKJV) “For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another, not as Cain who was of the wicked one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his works were evil and his brother's righteous.” (Sow the wind and) Reap the whirlwind Phrase referring to falling into more trouble than expected; Suffer serious consequences as a result of one’s actions Hosea 8:7 (KJV) “For they have sown the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind: it hath no stalk: the bud shall yield no meal: if so be it yield, the strangers shall swallow it up.” Reap what you sow, you However you conduct yourself will come back to you, good for good, bad for bad Galatians 6:7 (KJV) “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Render unto Caesar Pay due regard to rules and regulations, even though you may resent them, also pay money to people that are due it. Matthew 22:15-22 (NKJV) “Then the Pharisees went and plotted how they might entangle Him in His talk. And they sent to Him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, ‘Teacher, we know that You are true, and teach the way of God in truth; nor do You care about anyone, for You do not regard the person of men. Tell us, therefore, what do You think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?’ But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, ‘Why do you test Me, you hypocrites? Show Me the tax money.’ So they brought Him a denarius. And He said to them, ‘Whose image and inscription is this?’ They said to Him, ‘Caesar's.’ And He said to them, ‘Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.’ When they had heard these words, they marveled, and left Him and went their way.” Return to the fold Come back to a group after an abscence Jeremiah 23:3 (KJV) “And I will gather the remnant of my flock out of all countries whither I have driven them, and will bring them again to their folds; and they shall be fruitful and increase.” Riotous living Phrase referring to a lifestyle of sin Luke 15:13 (KJV) “And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.” Rise and shine Get out of bed, and be ready for work Isaiah 60:1 (NKJV) “Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you.” Root and branch Phrase meaning entirely Malachi 4:1 (KJV) “For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.” Root (heart) of the matter The essential part or cause of something Job 19:28 (NKJV) “If you should say, 'How shall we persecute him?'-- Since the root of the matter is found in me,” Rooted and grounded in… Having a solid foundation in Ephesians 3:17 (KJV) “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,” Rule with an iron hand (rod) To control a group of people very firmly, having complete power over everything they do Revelation 19:15 (KJV) “And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.” Sabbatical Time off from the ordinary demands of work (usually following a time of extended service) for reflection and refreshment. Sabbatical comes from the word “Sabbath” from the Bible meaning a time of rest. Leviticus 25:3-4 (NKJV) “Six years you shall sow your field, and six years you shall prune your vineyard, and gather its fruit; but in the seventh year there shall be a sabbath of solemn rest for the land, a sabbath to the LORD. You shall neither sow your field nor prune your vineyard.” Sackcloth and ashes, put on Phrase referring to be repentant and humble Esther 4:3 (KJV) “And in every province, whithersoever the king's commandment and his decree came, there was great mourning among the Jews, and fasting, and weeping, and wailing; and many lay in sackcloth and ashes.” Sacrificial lamb An innocent or defenseless victim sacrificed although they had personally done nothing wrong Leviticus 5:5-6 (NKJV) “And it shall be, when he is guilty in any of these matters, that he shall confess that he has sinned in that thing; and he shall bring his trespass offering to the LORD for his sin which he has committed, a female from the flock, a lamb or a kid of the goats as a sin offering. So the priest shall make atonement for him concerning his sin.” Safe and Sound Phrase meaning unscathed Luke 15:27 (KJV) “And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.” Salt of the earth Phrase referring to the best of people, especially the most dependable. Matthew 5:13-14 (NKJV) "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Saving grace A redeeming quality, especially one that compensates for one’s shortcomings Ephesians 2:5-9 (KJV) “Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Say the word, just Used to tell someone that you will do what they want at the time they ask you Genesis 21:12 (NKJV) “But God said to Abraham, "Do not let it be displeasing in your sight because of the lad or because of your bondwoman. Whatever Sarah has said to you, listen to her voice; for in Isaac your seed shall be called.” Matthew 8:8 (KJV) “The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.” Scales (blinders) have fallen from my eyes Figuratively meaning that one finally understands; If the scales fall from someone’s eyes, they are suddenly able to understand the truth Acts 9:18 (NKJV) “Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.” Scapegoat A person or a group that is made to take blame for others Leviticus 16:9-10 (NKJV) “And Aaron shall bring the goat on which the LORD'S lot fell, and offer it as a sin offering. But the goat on which the lot fell to be the scapegoat shall be presented alive before the LORD, to make atonement upon it, and to let it go as the scapegoat into the wilderness.” Scarlet woman Sexually promiscuous woman Revelation 17:1-5 (KJV) “And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters: With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication. So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” Scattered to the four winds If a group of things or people are scattered to the four winds, they go or are sent to different places that are far away from each other Jeremiah 49:36 (NKJV) “Against Elam I will bring the four winds From the four quarters of heaven, And scatter them toward all those winds; There shall be no nations where the outcasts of Elam will not go.” Scum of the earth A dismissive and derogatory way of referring to people one does not like or people who do bad things. 1 Corinthians 4:13 (NKJV) 13 being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now.” See eye to eye Used when one views something in the same way as others Isaiah 52:8 (NKJV) “Your watchmen shall lift up their voices, With their voices they shall sing together; For they shall see eye to eye When the LORD brings back Zion.” See the light To understand something clearly at last Luke 11:33 (NKJV) "No one, when he has lit a lamp, puts it in a secret place or under a basket, but on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light.” Seeing is believing Only physical or concrete evidence is convincing John 20:24-25 (KJV) “But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.” Sell one’s soul Do or be willing to do anything, no matter how wrong it is, in order to achieve one’s objective Matthew 16:26 (NKJV) “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Separate the wheat from the chaff Separate the good from the bad, the valuable from the worthless Matthew 3:12 (NKJV) “His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." Separate the sheep from the goats Divide or pick out good, superior or meritorious people from the rest Matthew 25:32 (NKJV) “All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.” Set your face against Phrase referring to turn your mind against something or someone; Oppose or resist with determination Leviticus 20:3 (KJV) “And I will set my face against that man, and will cut him off from among his people; because he hath given of his seed unto Molech, to defile my sanctuary, and to profane my holy name.” Set your heart on something To want to get or achieve something very much Job 7:17 (NKJV) "What is man, that You should exalt him, That You should set Your heart on him,” Set your teeth on edge Expression is used to describe any feeling of unpleasant distaste Jeremiah 31:30 (NKJV) “But every one shall die for his own iniquity; every man who eats the sour grapes, his teeth shall be set on edge.” Shake the dust from your feet Leave indignantly or disdainfully Matthew 10:14 (KJV) “And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.” Acts 13:51 (KJV) “But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium.” Ezekiel 34:26 (NKJV) “I will make them and the places all around My hill a blessing; and I will cause showers to come down in their season; there shall be showers of blessing.” Sharp tongue An outspoken or harsh manner; a critical mannor of speaking Psalm 52:2 (NKJV) “Your tongue devises destruction, Like a sharp razor, working deceitfully.” Psalm 57:4 (NKJV) “My soul is among lions; I lie among the sons of men Who are set on fire, Whose teeth are spears and arrows, And their tongue a sharp sword.” Shout it from the housetops To announce something publicly Matthew 10:27 (NKJV) "Whatever I tell you in the dark, speak in the light; and what you hear in the ear, preach on the housetops.” Signs of the times Something judged to exemplify or indicate the nature or quality of a particular period, typically something unwelcome or unpleasant Matthew 16:3 (NKJV) “and in the morning, 'It will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.' Hypocrites! You know how to discern the face of the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times.” Sin will find you out, your Phrase meaning that your bad deeds will come to light Numbers 32:23 (KJV) “But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out.” Sing someone’s praises To praise someone or something with enthusiasm Psalm 106:12 (NKJV) “Then they believed His words; They sang His praise.” Sink into your ears To take into your memory, and have it stay there Luke 9:43-44 (NKJV) “And they were all amazed at the majesty of God. But while everyone marveled at all the things which Jesus did, He said to His disciples, ‘Let these words sink down into your ears, for the Son of Man is about to be betrayed into the hands of men.’" Sins of the fathers The sins of one generation passing on to the next 1 Kings 15:3 (NKJV) “And he walked in all the sins of his father, which he had done before him; his heart was not loyal to the LORD his God, as was the heart of his father David.” Sit in judgment Assuming the right to judge another, especially in a critical manner Proverbs 20:8 (NKJV) “A king who sits on the throne of judgment Scatters all evil with his eyes.” Sitting at the receipt of custom Phrase referring to a money handler or cashier Matthew 9:9 (KJV) “And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him.” Slow to anger Phrase referring to having an even temperament Nehemiah 9:17 (KJV) “And refused to obey, neither were mindful of thy wonders that thou didst among them; but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage: but thou art a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsookest them not.” Smite them hip and thigh Phrase referring to savagely attacking your enemies; to attack unsparingly Judges 15:8 (KJV) “And he smote them hip and thigh with a great slaughter: and he went down and dwelt in the top of the rock Etam.” Snake in the grass An untrustworthy , deceitful person. This is an illusion to the deceitful serpent in the Garden of Eden that deceived Adam and Eve into breaking God’s commandment, and eating from the Tree of Knowledge Genesis 3:1 (KJV) “Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?” So be it An expression of acceptance or resignation Joshua 2:21 (NKJV) “Then she said, ‘According to your words, so be it.’ And she sent them away, and they departed. And she bound the scarlet cord in the window.” Sodom and Gomorrah Places regarded as centers of vice or depravity Genesis 18:20-21 (KJV) “And the LORD said, Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous; I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.” Jude 1:7 (KJV) “Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.” Soft answer turns away anger Gentleness diffuses tension Proverbs 15:1 (NKJV) “A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.” Son of Belial Phrase referring to an evil and wicked person 1 Samuel 25:17 (KJV) “Now therefore know and consider what thou wilt do; for evil is determined against our master, and against all his household: for he is such a son of Belial, that a man cannot speak to him.” 1 Samuel 30:22 (KJV) “Then answered all the wicked men and men of Belial, of those that went with David, and said, Because they went not with us, we will not give them ought of the spoil that we have recovered, save to every man his wife and his children, that they may lead them away, and depart.” Sounding brass Having an imposing sound and little content; pompous 1 Corinthians 13:1 (KJV) “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.” Sow the wind and reap the whirlwind Doing something bad that brings about catastrophic consequences. Hosea 8:7 (NKJV) "They sow the wind, And reap the whirlwind. The stalk has no bud; It shall never produce meal. If it should produce, Aliens would swallow it up.” Spare the rod and spoil the child Though not an exact quote from the Bible, the spirit of this phrase is definitely drawn from the Scriptures. It is used to justjfy corporal punishment in that if a child does not receive spankings in discipline that they will become ill-behaved. Proverbs 13:24 (NKJV) “He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly.” Proverbs 29:15 (NKJV) “The rod and rebuke give wisdom, But a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.” Speak into the air Speak in vain 1 Corinthians 14:9 (NKJV) “So likewise you, unless you utter by the tongue words easy to understand, how will it be known what is spoken? For you will be speaking into the air.” Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak Said when one would like to do something, but you do not have the time, skills, or energy necessary to do it Matthew 26:41 (NKJV) “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." Spoil the Egyptians Phrase meaning to profit from the wealth or belongings of another Exodus 3:22 (KJV) “But every woman shall borrow of her neighbour, and of her that sojourneth in her house, jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment: and ye shall put them upon your sons, and upon your daughters; and ye shall spoil the Egyptians.” Spy out the land To obtain knowledge of something before you do something Numbers 13:16-17 (NKJV) “These are the names of the men whom Moses sent to spy out the land. And Moses called Hoshea the son of Nun, Joshua. Then Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said to them, "Go up this way into the South, and go up to the mountains,” Judges 18:2 (NKJV) “So the children of Dan sent five men of their family from their territory, men of valor from Zorah and Eshtaol, to spy out the land and search it. They said to them, ‘Go, search the land.’ So they went to the mountains of Ephraim, to the house of Micah, and lodged there.” Stand in awe To be overwhelmed with respect for someone or something Psalm 4:4 (KJV) “Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.” Psalm 33:8 (KJV) “Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.” Psalm 119:161 (KJV) “Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word.” Stand in the gap To intercede; to expose one’s self for the protection of someone or something Ezekiel 22:30 (NKJV) “So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one.” Step between you and death Being close to death 1 Samuel 20:3 (NKJV) “Then David took an oath again, and said, ‘Your father certainly knows that I have found favor in your eyes, and he has said, 'Do not let Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved.' But truly, as the LORD lives and as your soul lives, there is but a step between me and death.’” Still small voice Signifying still and tranquil 1 Kings 19:12 (KJV) “And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.” Stone’s throw away, A Short but undefined distance Luke 22:41 (NKJV) “And He was withdrawn from them about a stone's throw, and He knelt down and prayed,” It is unclear who started this saying, but it is likely that the roots are biblical Storm and tempest Strong and fierce storm Psalm 55:8 (NKJV) “I would hasten my escape From the windy storm and tempest." Isaiah 29:6 (NKJV) Y”ou will be punished by the LORD of hosts With thunder and earthquake and great noise, With storm and tempest And the flame of devouring fire.” Straight and narrow Proper, honest, and moral path of behavior Matthew 7:13-14 (NKJV) "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” Straining at gnats To be unduly fussy about tiny details Matthew 23:24 (NKJV) “Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel!” Strangers and pilgrims Refers to a sense of not quite belonging where one is Hebrews 11:13 (NKJV) “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.” Strength of Samson Someone or something possessing great strength Judges 14:5-6 (NKJV) “So Samson went down to Timnah with his father and mother, and came to the vineyards of Timnah. Now to his surprise, a young lion came roaring against him. And the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and he tore the lion apart as one would have torn apart a young goat, though he had nothing in his hand. But he did not tell his father or his mother what he had done.” Judges 14:19 (NKJV) “Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon him mightily, and he went down to Ashkelon and killed thirty of their men, took their apparel, and gave the changes of clothing to those who had explained the riddle. So his anger was aroused, and he went back up to his father's house.” Stumbling block Impediment Leviticus 19:14 (NKJV) “You shall not curse the deaf, nor put a stumbling block before the blind, but shall fear your God: I am the LORD.” 1 Corinthians 1:23 (NKJV) “but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness,” Suffer fools gladly Show patience towards the foolish 2 Corinthians 11:19 (NKJV) “For you put up with fools gladly, since you yourselves are wise!” Sweat blood Extreme worry Luke 22:44 (NKJV) “And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” Sweater than honey Something that is wonderful; someone very sweet or charming Psalm 119:103 (NKJV) “How sweet are Your words to my taste, Sweeter than honey to my mouth!” Take under the wing Come under the protection of; To become one’s protégé; to mentor someone Matthew 23:37 (NKJV) "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!” Teeth set on edge Used to describe any feeling of unpleasant distaste Jeremiah 31:30 (NKJV) “But every one shall die for his own iniquity; every man who eats the sour grapes, his teeth shall be set on edge.” Tell it not in Gath Phrase meaning to not mention or publicize something, especially to someone who might take pleasure in it 2 Samuel 1:20 (KJV) “Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Askelon; lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, lest the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph.” The truth shall set you free Used to promote academic learning and the power of learning; the freeing feeling when one tells the truth John 8:32 (NKJV) “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." There’s a time for everything There is a proper time for all things Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NKJV) “To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:” Their name is Legion They are countless and innumerable; their number appears infinite Mark 5:9 (KJV) “And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.” There’s nothing new under the sun Everything as is as it has always been Ecclesiastes 1:9 (NKJV) “That which has been is what will be, That which is done is what will be done, And there is nothing new under the sun.” Thief in the night, as a Phrase referring to doing something secretly or discreetly 1 Thessalonians 5:2 (KJV) “For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” Thirty pieces of silver Phrase referring to the price of treachery Matthew 26:14-16 (KJV) “Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.” Thorn in the flesh (side) Source of continual trouble 2 Corinthians 12:7 (NKJV) “And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure.” Three score and ten Normal life expectancy Psalm 90:10 (NKJV) “The days of our lives are seventy years; And if by reason of strength they are eighty years, Yet their boast is only labor and sorrow; For it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” Through a glass darkly This expression means to have an obscure or imperfect vision of reality 1 Corinthians 13:12 (KJV) “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” Thrown into the lion’s den Being placed into a very dangerous or challenging situation Daniel 6:16-17 (NKJV) “So the king gave the command, and they brought Daniel and cast him into the den of lions. But the king spoke, saying to Daniel, "Your God, whom you serve continually, He will deliver you. Then a stone was brought and laid on the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the signets of his lords, that the purpose concerning Daniel might not be changed.” To everything there is a season There is a proper time for all things to occur Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NKJV) “To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:” To kingdom come Often used as ‘blow it to kingdom come’ or ‘from here to kingdom come’ this refers to heaven as taken from the Lord’s Prayer. Matthew 6:9-10 (KJV) “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” To the bitter end To the last extremity, however painful or difficult Amos 8:10 (NKJV) “I will turn your feasts into mourning, And all your songs into lamentation; I will bring sackcloth on every waist, And baldness on every head; I will make it like mourning for an only son, And its end like a bitter day.” Tomorrow will take care of itself Phrase meaning to enjoy today Matthew 6:34 (KJV) “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” Tower of Babel Scene for confusion of sounds, especially voices Genesis 11:6-7 (KJV) “And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech.” Tower of strength A dependable person offering support, comfort, etc. Proverbs 18:10 (KJV) “The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” Turn the other cheek Refrain from retaliating when one has been attacked or insulted Matthew 5:39 (NKJV) “But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.” Turn the world upside down To change someone’s life completely, often in a way this is shocking or upsetting; disorganize or put in disarray Acts 17:6 (NKJV) “But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some brethren to the rulers of the city, crying out, "These who have turned the world upside down have come here too.” Twinkling of an eye In a very short time 1 Corinthians 15:52 (KJV) “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” Two are better than one More can be accomplished with two working together than with one; better to be with someone than alone Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NKJV) “Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor.” Two heads are better than one In this reference, head means ‘mind.’’ The meaning of the saying is that when two thinkers combine their ideas, often the result is more profound than those of one alone. Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NKJV) “Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor.” Two-edged sword Metaphor for anything that figuratively cuts deeply in every direction; Something that can have both favorable and unfavorable consequences Proverbs 5:4 (NKJV) “But in the end she is bitter as wormwood, Sharp as a two-edged sword.” Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV) “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Valley of the shadow of death Phrase referring to being near death, or experiencing a deadly situation Psalm 23:4 (KJV) “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Vanity of vanities; all is vanity Emptiness, futile, unfulfilling Ecclesiastes 1:1-11 (NKJV) “The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem. ‘Vanity of vanities,’ says the Preacher; ‘Vanity of vanities, all is vanity.’ What profit has a man from all his labor In which he toils under the sun? One generation passes away, and another generation comes; But the earth abides forever. The sun also rises, and the sun goes down, And hastens to the place where it arose. The wind goes toward the south, And turns around to the north; The wind whirls about continually, And comes again on its circuit. All the rivers run into the sea, Yet the sea is not full; To the place from which the rivers come, There they return again. All things are full of labor; Man cannot express it. The eye is not satisfied with seeing, Nor the ear filled with hearing. That which has been is what will be, That which is done is what will be done, And there is nothing new under the sun. Is there anything of which it may be said, "See, this is new"? It has already been in ancient times before us. There is no remembrance of former things, Nor will there be any remembrance of things that are to come By those who will come after.” Vengeance is mine Phrase meaning that one will avenge wrong actions against themselves Deuteronomy 32:35 (NKJV) “Vengeance is Mine, and recompense; Their foot shall slip in due time; For the day of their calamity is at hand, And the things to come hasten upon them.” Romans 12:19 (NKJV) “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord.” Voice crying in the wilderness Person whose prophecies, warnings, opinions, etc. are ignored John 1:23 (NKJV) “He said: ‘I am 'The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Make straight the way of the LORD,’ ' as the prophet Isaiah said.’" Wages of sin Consequences of doing evil Romans 6:23 (NKJV) “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Walk the straight and narrow The ‘straight and narrow’ path refers to a very specific way to do something, which, when varying from it, may have disasterous results. The original idea comes from the Bible. Matthew 7:13-14 (NKJV) "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” Wash your hands of the matter Phrase referring to having nothing more to do with something; (publicly) disown responsibility for something Matthew 27:24 (NKJV) “When Pilate saw that he could not prevail at all, but rather that a tumult was rising, he took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, ‘I am innocent of the blood of this just Person. You see to it.’" Weak as water To be very weak Ezekiel 7:17 (NKJV) “Every hand will be feeble, And every knee will be as weak as water.” Weaker vessel Synonym for a woman, often used ironically 1 Peter 3:7 (NKJV) “Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.” Wearing/in sackcloth and ashes Phrase referring to expressing contrition Jonah 3:6 (KJV) “For word came unto the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, and he laid his robe from him, and covered him with sackcloth, and sat in ashes.” Luke 10:13 (KJV) “Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes.” Weighed in the balance Used when actions/lives are being assessed and judgement passed Daniel 5:27 (NKJV) “TEKEL: You have been weighed in the balances, and found wanting;” Well done good and faithful servant Praise for someone who has undertaken a task successfully. Matthew 25:21 (NKJV) “His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' What God has joined together let no man put asunder Part of standard marriage vows Matthew 19:6 (NKJV) “So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate." White as snow Pure white Daniel 7:9 (NKJV) "I watched till thrones were put in place, And the Ancient of Days was seated; His garment was white as snow, And the hair of His head was like pure wool. His throne was a fiery flame, Its wheels a burning fire;” Whited sepulchre Phrase referring to a hypocrite, especially religious Matthew 23:27 (KJV) “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.” Wheels within wheels Unseen or little-known workings within the controlling forces of an organization, system, etc.; complication of influences; intricately connected events. Ezekiel 1:16 (NKJV) “The appearance of the wheels and their workings was like the color of beryl, and all four had the same likeness. The appearance of their workings was, as it were, a wheel in the middle of a wheel.” Widow’s mite A tiny amount of money which is, nevertheless, significant; A small monetary contribution from someone who is poor Mark 12:41-44 (NKJV) “Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans. So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.’" Wings of the wind Phrase referring to going fast and quiet Psalm 18:10 (KJV) “And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly: yea, he did fly upon the wings of the wind.” Wisdom of Solomon Possessing great wisdom Luke 11:31 (NKJV) “The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater than Solomon is here.” Wise in your own eyes To think highly of oneself Isaiah 5:21 (KJV) “Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!” With all your heart Used to emphasize that a feeling is very strong Deuteronomy 13:3 (NKJV) “you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams, for the LORD your God is testing you to know whether you love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul.” Joshua 22:5 (NKJV) “But take careful heed to do the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to keep His commandments, to hold fast to Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul." Mark 12:30 (NKJV) “’And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.' This is the first commandment.” With you in spirit Not physically in a place or a situation, but thinking about the people who are there and wishing you were there Colossians 2:5 (KJV) “For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.” Woe is me I am distressed, sad, grieved Job 10:15 (NKJV) “If I am wicked, woe to me; Even if I am righteous, I cannot lift up my head. I am full of disgrace; See my misery!” Wolf in sheep’s clothing Metaphor for a person who appears to be a friend, but is in truth a foe; Someone acting deceitfully Matthew 7:15 (NKJV) "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.” Woman’s glory Phrase referring to the long hair of a woman. 1 Corinthians 11:15 (KJV) “But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.” Won’t lift a finger To do nothing; to refuse to provide even the smallest level of help or assistance Matthew 23:4 (KJV) “For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.” Word in season Phrase referring to saying the right thing at the right time Proverbs 15:23 (KJV) “A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!” Writing is on the wall Phrase meaning the warning (of approaching calamity) is plain for all to see Daniel 5:5 (NKJV) “In the same hour the fingers of a man's hand appeared and wrote opposite the lampstand on the plaster of the wall of the king's palace; and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote.” Written in stone Used to emphasize that something is fixed and unchangeable Exodus 31:18 (NKJV) “And when He had made an end of speaking with him on Mount Sinai, He gave Moses two tablets of the Testimony, tablets of stone, written with the finger of God.” You can’t take it with you We all must leave worldly wealth behind when we die 1 Timothy 6:7 (KJV) “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” Your sin will find you out Your evil deeds will not remain in secret, but will ultimately be revealed Numbers 32:23 (NKJV) “But if you do not do so, then take note, you have sinned against the LORD; and be sure your sin will find you out.” Common Sayings Thought To Come From The Bible, But Did Not All men are created equal Not in the Bible, but is in Declaration of Independence. A fool and his money are soon parted A quote from Thomas Tusser in 1573 in his work Five Hundreth Pointes of Good Husbandrie. All things work together for the good From a biblical standpoint, there are qualifications on “all” in that the person must have a genuine love for our Lord, and must be working in His will. Romans 8:28 (NKJV) “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Better to cast your seed in the belly of a whore than to spill it on the ground False conclusion of Genesis 38 involving Onan, Tamar and Judah Burn the midnight oil Midnight oil appears to have been coined by Francis Quarles in his work Emblems (1635), “We spend our midday sweat, our midnight oil. We tire the night in thought, the day in toil.” Charity begins at home This is not in the Bible, and is a misinterpretation of I Timothy 5:8, which is not referencing charity, but is referring to providing for one’s family’s needs: 1 Timothy 5:8 (NKJV) ”But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” Cleanliness is next to godliness The Scriptures tells that we will be cleansed of our sins through a saving faith in our Lord Jesus Christ: 1 John 1:9 (KJV) “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” John 15:3 (KJV) “Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.” 2 Corinthians 7:1 (KJV) “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” James 4:8 (KJV) “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” However, the quote, “Cleanliness is next to godliness”, would not have any biblical foundation. God helps those who help themselves This phrase originates from Benjamin Franklin, and is actually contrary to biblical teachings: Romans 5:6 (NKJV) “For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.” Jeremiah 17:5 (NKJV) “Thus says the LORD: "Cursed is the man who trusts in man And makes flesh his strength, Whose heart departs from the LORD.” God will not give you more than you can handle This has it roots in 1 Corinthians 10:13, but this verse only refers to temptations, and not burdens. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NKJV) “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” God works in mysterious ways This literal proverb if from a poem by William Cowper’s hymn, “God Moves in a Mysterious Way.” Hate the sin, love the sinner This phrase is not from the Bible, but can be traced to:

• Mahatma Gandhi in 1929, “Hate the sin and not the sinner”

• Augustine AD 424, “With love for mankind and hatred of sins” He that touches pitch

Old adage that advises that anyone who has even the slightest contact with someone who’s up to no good cannot avoid becoming corrupted themselves. Origin from Ecclesiasticus 13:1, a book in the Biblical Apocrypha written in the 2nd century BC, “He that toucheth pitch shall be defiled therewith, and he that hath fellowship with a proud man shall be like unto him.” If God brings you to it, he will lead you through it This is not in Scripture. Scripture tells us that God is always with us, and that he will give us strength to stand up under pressure, but also there are times when he will allow us to suffer for His glory. In Deep Water Idiom meaning to be in trouble, and has no biblical origins It’s always darkest just before dawn This is not from the bible, as some have assumed, but is from English theologian and historian, Thomas Fuller (1608-1661). Used as a proverb meaning no matter how bleak a situation may become, there is still hope. Usually when one is ready to give up, the solution is at hand. Leap of faith, A Metaphor used by the nineteenth-century Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard in his writings entitled, “Concluding Unscientific Postscript (1846) to describe commitment to an objective uncertainty, specifically to the Christian God. Many hands make light work The root of this proverb comes from the Bible: Ecclesiastes 4:9 (KJV) “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.” But the actuall quote is from John Heywood’s “A dialogue conteinyng the member in effect of all the prouerbes in the Englishe tongue”, 1546. Moderation in all things This is a common extrapolation of Aristotles’ Doctrine of the Mean as presented in his Nicomachean Ethics Neither a borrower nor a lender be The source of this phrase comes from Shakespear’s Hamlet Patience is a virtue The idea that patience is a virtue can be traced back to the Bible, as it is listed as a ‘fruit of the Spirit’: Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV) “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” But the first citation of the proverb comes from William Langland’s poem, Piers Plowman, 1377 and was expressed even earlier in Latin… Maxima enim…patientia virtus (patience is the greatest virtue). This means that the ability to wait for the fulfillment of a desire without complaining is important in the development of character. Pride goes before a fall This is a misquotation of the following verse: Proverbs 16:18 (NKJV) “Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.” Red sky at night is a sailor’s delight, red sky in the morning is a sailor’s warning This is an old nautical term that was quoted by Jesus, but origin was not from the Bible, but was a common term of that day Matthew 16:2-3 (NKJV) “He answered and said to them, "When it is evening you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red'; and in the morning, 'It will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.' Hypocrites! You know how to discern the face of the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times.” Sour Grapes In the fable The Fox and the Grapes, which is attributed to the ancient Greek writer Aesop, the fox isn't able to reach the grapes and declares them to be sour: Harrison Weir's 1884 English translation, which claims to be "from original sources ", presents the text like this: A famished Fox saw some clusters of ripe black grapes hanging from a trellised vine. She resorted to all her tricks to get at them, but wearied herself in vain, for she could not reach them. At last she turned away, beguiling herself of her disappointment, and saying: "The Grapes are sour, and not ripe as I thought." This phrase also appears in the Bible: Ezekiel 18:1-3 (NKJV) “The word of the LORD came to me again, saying, ‘What do you mean when you use this proverb concerning the land of Israel, saying: 'The fathers have eaten sour grapes, And the children's teeth are set on edge’? ‘As I live,’ says the Lord GOD, ‘you shall no longer use this proverb in Israel.’” The biblical version of the expression doesn't match the meaning as the Aesop's Fables version does and, although it may well be an older citation of the two words 'sour' and 'grapes', it appears that the latter is the source of the phrase. Straight from the horse’s mouth Not in the Bible. Most probably a 20th century term originating from horse racing. Syracuse Herald, May 1913: "I got a tip yesterday, and if it wasn't straight from the horse's mouth it was jolly well the next thing to it." The eye is the window to the soul This phrase is not from the Bible, and is most likely an improper extrapolation of verses such as the following: Matthew 6:22-23 (NKJV) "The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” Luke 11:34-35 (NKJV) “The lamp of the body is the eye. Therefore, when your eye is good, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is bad, your body also is full of darkness. Therefore take heed that the light which is in you is not darkness.” The lion shall lie down with the lamb This is a misquotation of the following verses: Isaiah 11:6 (NKJV) "The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, The leopard shall lie down with the young goat, The calf and the young lion and the fatling together; And a little child shall lead them.” Isaiah 65:25 (NKJV) “The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, The lion shall eat straw like the ox, And dust shall be the serpent's food. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain," Says the LORD.” This too shall pass Misinterpretation of line from “The Lament of Doer,” an old English poem, “that passed away, so may this.” There are none so blind as those who will not see This old proverb is often thought to be from the Bible. Though it is not, it may have been inspired by Jeremiah: Jeremiah 5:21 (KJV) “Hear now this, O foolish people, and without understanding; which have eyes, and see not; which have ears, and hear not:” It was first recorded by John Heywood in his 1546 book of proverbs. To err is human; to forgive, divine This is not from the Bible, but is a quote form Alexander Pope, and English poet and satirist (1688-1704) To thine own self be true The source of this phrase comes from Shakespear’s Hamlet When in Rome, do as the Romans do This is not from the Bible as many have believed, but the timing is not far off. In 387 A.D. when St. Augustine arrived in Milan, he observed the fact that the Church there didn’t fast on Saturday as did the Church in Rome. He consulted the bishop of Milan, St. Ambrose. The bishop’s answer was: “When I am at Rome, I fast on a Saturday; when I am at Milan, I do not. Follow the custom of the Church where you are.” The statement was changed to “When they are at Rome, they do there as they see done” by Robert Burton in ‘The Anatomy of Melancholy (1621). Eventually it was altered again to “When in Rome, do as the Romans do>” You can be so heavenly minded that you are no earthly good This phrase and/or general thought is not found in the Scriptures. Further, Jesus Christ was very heavenly minded, and obviously did infinite good on earth.