Biblical

Definition

Biblical describes something relating to or contained in the Bible; it can also denote language, themes, or scale characteristic of scriptural narratives, or be used figuratively to indicate something of epic or vast proportions.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˈbɪb.lɪ.kəl/
• Respelling: BIB-li-kəl

British English

• IPA: /ˈbɪb.lɪ.kəl/
• Respelling: BIB-li-kəl

Etymology

Mid 16th century: from Late Latin biblicalis, from biblia “books” (the Latin name for the Scriptures).

Derivatives

• biblically (adverb)
• biblio‑ (prefix, as in bibliography)
• biblicalism (noun)
• biblicalist (noun)

Synonyms

• scriptural
• canonical
• holy writ
• sacred

Antonyms

• secular
• noncanonical
• profane

Usage

The adjective "biblical" is used in religious, literary, and colloquial contexts to describe something pertaining to the Bible or, by extension, something of epic scale. For example, "He offered a biblical commentary on the parable," or "They endured biblical floods during the monsoon season."

Related Terms

• Bible: The canonical scriptures of Judaism and Christianity.
• Scripture: Sacred writings of a religion.
• Gospel: The first four books of the New Testament or the message of Christ.
• Testament: The two main divisions of the Christian Bible (Old, New).
• Exodus: A book of the Bible and a term for departure or migration.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to the Bible – derived from or contained in the canonical Scriptures.
  • Example: "She studied biblical Hebrew to read the Old Testament in its original form."
• Characteristic of scriptural language or themes – resembling the style, imagery, or moral tone of the Bible.
  • Example: "The speech employed biblical metaphors to convey hope and redemption."
• Epic in scale or intensity – used figuratively to describe something vast, catastrophic, or awe‑inspiring.
  • Example: "They faced biblical challenges during the decade‑long drought."