Bible Glossary: Words Starting with “P”

Welcome to FaithTime’s Bible Glossary. Here you’ll find clear, biblically grounded explanations for essential Bible terms beginning with the letter P, along with Scripture references and simple meanings to help deepen your understanding of God’s Word.

A large ornate letter P is surrounded by unleavened bread, a loaf, a lamb, a basket of grains, wheat stalks, and a desert background with stars and a crescent moon.

Passover

Definition: A Jewish festival commemorating God’s deliverance of Israel from Egypt.

Scripture Reference: Exodus 12:11–14

Simple Meaning: Celebrates God’s protection and salvation.

Patience

Definition: The ability to endure trials, delays, or suffering with trust in God.

Scripture Reference: Galatians 5:22

Simple Meaning: Patience is evidence of the Holy Spirit’s work in believers.

Peace

Definition: Wholeness, harmony, and calmness rooted in God’s presence.

Scripture Reference: John 14:27

Simple Meaning: Jesus gives true peace that the world cannot offer.

Pentecost

Definition: The day the Holy Spirit was poured out on believers after Jesus’ ascension.

Scripture Reference: Acts 2:1–4

Simple Meaning: Marks the birth of the early Church through the Spirit’s power.

Persecution

Definition: Hostility or suffering endured because of faith.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 5:10–12

Simple Meaning: God strengthens believers who suffer for righteousness.

Perseverance

Definition: Steadfast endurance in faith despite challenges.

Scripture Reference: James 1:12

Simple Meaning: Perseverance grows spiritual maturity.

Pharisee

Definition: A Jewish religious leader known for strict adherence to the law.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 23:27

Simple Meaning: Represents legalism without inner transformation.

Praise

Definition: Expressing admiration and gratitude to God.

Scripture Reference: Psalm 150:6

Simple Meaning: Praise is joyful worship directed toward God.

Prayer

Definition: Communicating with God through words, worship, or silence.

Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:6

Simple Meaning: Prayer draws us closer to God’s heart.

Priest

Definition: One who mediates between God and people.

Scripture Reference: Hebrews 5:1

Simple Meaning: In Christ, all believers become a royal priesthood.

Promise

Definition: A declaration from God that is guaranteed and trustworthy.

Scripture Reference: 2 Peter 1:4

Simple Meaning: God’s promises never fail.

Prophecy

Definition: A divine message from God, often revealing truth, warning, or future events.

Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 14:3

Simple Meaning: Prophecy builds up and guides God’s people.

Prophet

Definition: A messenger chosen by God to speak His words.

Scripture Reference: Jeremiah 1:5

Simple Meaning: Prophets reveal God’s will to His people.

Proverbs

Definition: Wise sayings found especially in the biblical Book of Proverbs.

Scripture Reference: Proverbs 1:1–7

Simple Meaning: Provide daily guidance for wise living.

Psalms

Definition: A collection of sacred songs and prayers in the Bible.

Scripture Reference: Psalm 1:1

Simple Meaning: Expresses every emotion while drawing hearts toward God.

Purity

Definition: Moral and spiritual cleanliness before God.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 5:8

Simple Meaning: Purity reflects a heart aligned with God’s will.

Passion (Suffering of Christ)

Definition: The suffering Jesus endured leading up to His crucifixion.

Scripture Reference: Isaiah 53:5

Simple Meaning: Shows the depth of Christ’s love for humanity.

Patriarch

Definition: The founding fathers of Israel—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Scripture Reference: Genesis 12:1–3

Simple Meaning: Their lives mark the roots of God’s covenant people.

Pearl

Definition: A precious gem symbolizing great value.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 13:45–46

Simple Meaning: God’s kingdom is worth everything.

Peril

Definition: Danger or risk often mentioned in spiritual testing.

Scripture Reference: Romans 8:35

Simple Meaning: Nothing can separate believers from God’s love.

Perfume / Fragrance

Definition: Sweet-scented oil used in worship or anointing.

Scripture Reference: John 12:3

Simple Meaning: Symbolizes worship and devotion to Jesus.

Philistine

Definition: An ancient enemy nation of Israel.

Scripture Reference: 1 Samuel 17:4

Simple Meaning: Known for opposing God’s people.

Pillar

Definition: A column used for support, symbolizing stability or divine guidance.

Scripture Reference: Exodus 13:21

Simple Meaning: God guided Israel through pillars of cloud and fire.

Place of Refuge

Definition: A safe haven God provides.

Scripture Reference: Psalm 46:1

Simple Meaning: God is our shelter in trouble.

Plague

Definition: A severe affliction often used as divine judgment.

Scripture Reference: Exodus 7–12

Simple Meaning: Demonstrates God’s authority and power.

Portion

Definition: One’s share, inheritance, or blessing from God.

Scripture Reference: Psalm 73:26

Simple Meaning: God Himself is our ultimate portion.

Potter

Definition: A craftsman shaping clay, often used symbolically for God’s sovereignty.

Scripture Reference: Isaiah 64:8

Simple Meaning: God shapes our lives with purpose.

Praise Offering

Definition: Worship given to God from a thankful heart.

Scripture Reference: Hebrews 13:15

Simple Meaning: Expresses gratitude and honor to the Lord.

Priesthood

Definition: The calling of believers to serve and represent God.

Scripture Reference: 1 Peter 2:9

Simple Meaning: Every believer is chosen to minister to others.

Prodigal

Definition: Wasteful or reckless, famously used in the parable of the Prodigal Son.

Scripture Reference: Luke 15:11–24

Simple Meaning: God welcomes repentant hearts with open arms.

Propitiation

Definition: The act of atoning for sin through a sacrifice.

Scripture Reference: 1 John 2:2

Simple Meaning: Jesus paid the price to restore us to God.

Provision

Definition: God’s care and supply for His people.

Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:19

Simple Meaning: God meets every need.

Purification

Definition: The process of being cleansed spiritually.

Scripture Reference: Psalm 51:7

Simple Meaning: God renews and restores our hearts.

Punishment

Definition: Consequences for sin or wrongdoing.

Scripture Reference: Hebrews 12:6

Simple Meaning: God disciplines in love to bring growth.