Bible Glossary: Words Starting with “T”

Welcome to FaithTime’s Bible Glossary. Here you’ll find clear, biblically grounded explanations for essential Bible terms beginning with the letter T, along with Scripture references and simple insights to help grow your knowledge and spiritual life.

An ornate letter “T” stands in the center, flanked by loaves of bread, stalks of wheat, and a bowl of grains. In the background are tablets with Cyrillic text, sand dunes, a crescent moon, and a starry sky.

Tabernacle

Definition: The portable dwelling place for God’s presence during Israel’s wilderness journey.

Scripture Reference: Exodus 25:8

Simple Meaning: The tabernacle symbolizes God dwelling among His people.

Tabor (Mount Tabor)

Definition: A mountain in Israel, site of significant biblical events, including the Transfiguration.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 17:1

Simple Meaning: Tabor represents divine revelation and God’s glory.

Tithe

Definition: A tenth of one’s income or produce given to God.

Scripture Reference: Malachi 3:10

Simple Meaning: Tithing reflects trust, obedience, and devotion to God.

Transfiguration

Definition: The moment Jesus’ divine glory was revealed to Peter, James, and John.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 17:2

Simple Meaning: Shows Jesus’ divine nature and foreshadows His glory.

Temptation

Definition: The enticement to sin or turn away from God.

Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 10:13

Simple Meaning: God provides strength to resist temptation and remain faithful.

Throne of God

Definition: The seat of God’s sovereign authority and judgment.

Scripture Reference: Revelation 4:2

Simple Meaning: God rules all creation from His throne in justice and holiness.

Tabernacle of David

Definition: Refers to the tent or worship center established by King David.

Scripture Reference: Acts 15:16

Simple Meaning: Symbolizes God’s desire for joyful, Spirit-led worship.

Tribulation

Definition: A period of severe trials or persecution.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 24:21

Simple Meaning: Tribulations test faith and prepare believers for God’s kingdom.

Trust / Trusting in God

Definition: Reliance on God’s character, promises, and provision.

Scripture Reference: Proverbs 3:5

Simple Meaning: Trusting God brings peace and guidance in life.

Tower of Babel

Definition: A city and tower built to challenge God, resulting in confused languages.

Scripture Reference: Genesis 11:4–9

Simple Meaning: Human pride is opposed by God; He desires humility and obedience.

Teacher / Teachers

Definition: Those called to instruct others in God’s Word.

Scripture Reference: James 3:1

Simple Meaning: Teachers guide believers in understanding and applying Scripture.

Tabernacle Services

Definition: The rituals and offerings conducted in the tabernacle.

Scripture Reference: Leviticus 1:1–17

Simple Meaning: They symbolize worship, atonement, and God’s holiness.

Thief / Thieves

Definition: Those who steal or act dishonestly; often used metaphorically.

Scripture Reference: John 10:10

Simple Meaning: Jesus contrasts the thief’s harm with His gift of abundant life.

Timothy

Definition: A young disciple and companion of Paul, recipient of pastoral guidance.

Scripture Reference: 1 Timothy 1:2

Simple Meaning: Timothy represents faithful discipleship and spiritual mentorship.

Tabernacle Curtain

Definition: The veil separating the Holy of Holies in the tabernacle or temple.

Scripture Reference: Exodus 26:33

Simple Meaning: The curtain symbolizes God’s holiness and access to His presence.

Testimony

Definition: A personal declaration of faith and God’s work in one’s life.

Scripture Reference: Revelation 12:11

Simple Meaning: Testimonies strengthen faith and encourage others.

Tongues

Definition: A spiritual gift involving speaking in languages unknown to the speaker.

Scripture Reference: Acts 2:4

Simple Meaning: God empowers believers for worship and proclamation.

Treasure in Heaven

Definition: Spiritual rewards stored with God for faithfulness.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:20

Simple Meaning: Focus on eternal rewards rather than earthly wealth.

Tempted / Temptation of Jesus

Definition: The trials Jesus faced in the wilderness from Satan.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 4:1–11

Simple Meaning: Jesus provides an example of resisting temptation through God’s Word.

Tower

Definition: A high structure symbolizing strength, vigilance, or pride.

Scripture Reference: Proverbs 18:10

Simple Meaning: God can be our strong tower and refuge, but human pride leads to downfall.

Truth

Definition: God’s reality, faithfulness, and revealed Word.

Scripture Reference: John 14:6

Simple Meaning: Living in God’s truth guides believers to righteousness and freedom.

Tribute

Definition: Payment or offering showing respect, loyalty, or obedience.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 22:21

Simple Meaning: Honoring God includes recognizing His authority in all areas.

Tabernacle of Witness

Definition: Another term emphasizing God’s dwelling among His people as testimony.

Scripture Reference: Exodus 40:34–35

Simple Meaning: God’s presence validates His promises and covenant.

Tamar

Definition: Daughter-in-law of Judah, involved in a significant biblical lineage.

Scripture Reference: Genesis 38:6–30

Simple Meaning: God works through imperfect people to fulfill His plan.

Twelve Tribes of Israel

Definition: The descendants of Jacob’s twelve sons, forming the nation of Israel.

Scripture Reference: Genesis 49:28

Simple Meaning: Represents God’s chosen people and covenant promises.

Terror / Fear of the Lord

Definition: Reverent awe and respect for God.

Scripture Reference: Proverbs 9:10

Simple Meaning: True wisdom begins with honoring God and His authority.