Testament
TextsWhat is the meaning of Testament in the Bible?
The Greek term diatheke, typically translated as 'covenant', appears as 'testament' in Hebrews 9:16-17 within the King James Version, reflecting a legal interpretation of a will effective upon death. This rendering lacks strong philological support, a fact acknowledged by the Revised Version which sought to correct this anomaly.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the distinction between 'covenant' and 'testament' clarifies the legal metaphor Paul employs in Hebrews, distinguishing between a binding agreement between parties and a unilateral disposition of inheritance.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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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.