Conversation
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Conversation in the Bible?
In early modern English, particularly within the King James Version of the Bible, the word 'conversation' denoted a person's manner of life, behavior, or conduct rather than verbal dialogue. The original Greek and Hebrew texts utilized distinct vocabulary for speech, indicating that the modern sense of the word is a later semantic development.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing this historical definition prevents misinterpretation of biblical passages, ensuring that references to 'conversation' are understood as descriptions of moral character and daily actions rather than descriptions of speech patterns.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Conversation in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Conversation clarify?
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.