Welcome to FaithTime’s Bible Glossary. Here you’ll find clear, biblically grounded explanations for important terms beginning with the letter J, complete with Scripture references and insights to enrich your spiritual growth.
Jacob
- Definition: The son of Isaac and Rebekah, later named Israel; father of the twelve tribes of Israel.
- Scripture Reference: Genesis 32:28
- Simple Meaning: Jacob’s life illustrates God’s covenant faithfulness and the transformation of character through struggle.
Jabbok
- Definition: A river in the territory of Gilead where Jacob wrestled with God.
- Scripture Reference: Genesis 32:22-32
- Simple Meaning: The Jabbok represents a place of spiritual struggle and divine blessing.
Jairus
- Definition: A synagogue leader whose daughter was raised from the dead by Jesus.
- Scripture Reference: Mark 5:22-24
- Simple Meaning: Jairus’ story illustrates faith in Jesus’ power to bring life and hope.
James
- Definition: The brother of Jesus and leader in the early church; author of the Epistle of James.
- Scripture Reference: James 1:2-4
- Simple Meaning: James emphasizes practical faith expressed through actions.
Japheth
- Definition: One of Noah’s sons, traditionally considered ancestor of many Gentile nations.
- Scripture Reference: Genesis 10:2
- Simple Meaning: Japheth symbolizes the spread of God’s creation and nations.
Jebel
- Definition: Arabic for “mountain,” often used in Scripture to describe elevated places.
- Scripture Reference: Deuteronomy 4:49
- Simple Meaning: Mountains in the Bible often signify God’s presence and revelation.
Jeremiah
- Definition: A major prophet who warned Judah of judgment, called for repentance, and spoke of hope and restoration.
- Scripture Reference: Jeremiah 1:5
- Simple Meaning: Jeremiah’s life shows obedience to God despite opposition and the importance of speaking God’s truth.
Jericho
- Definition: A fortified city in Canaan, famous for the miraculous collapse of its walls when Israel obeyed God.
- Scripture Reference: Joshua 6:20
- Simple Meaning: Jericho demonstrates God’s power and the reward of faith and obedience.
Jerusalem
- Definition: The holy city central to Jewish worship, the site of the Temple, and significant in the life of Jesus.
- Scripture Reference: Psalm 122:6
- Simple Meaning: Jerusalem symbolizes God’s presence, worship, and redemption plan.
Jesus
- Definition: The Son of God, Messiah, and Savior of humanity.
- Scripture Reference: Matthew 1:21
- Simple Meaning: Jesus is the central figure of Christianity, offering salvation, redemption, and eternal life.
Jezebel
- Definition: A queen in Israel known for idolatry and opposition to God’s prophets.
- Scripture Reference: 1 Kings 18:13
- Simple Meaning: Jezebel represents rebellion against God and the dangers of ungodly influence.
Joab
- Definition: Commander of King David’s army, known for loyalty and controversial actions.
- Scripture Reference: 2 Samuel 2:13-32
- Simple Meaning: Joab’s story teaches lessons about loyalty, strategy, and the consequences of actions.
Job
- Definition: A righteous man who endured immense suffering and remained faithful to God.
- Scripture Reference: Job 1:1
- Simple Meaning: Job illustrates patience, faith, and God’s sovereignty amid trials.
Joel
- Definition: A prophet who spoke of the coming Day of the Lord and called for repentance.
- Scripture Reference: Joel 2:28-29
- Simple Meaning: Joel emphasizes God’s judgment, mercy, and the outpouring of the Spirit.
John the Baptist
- Definition: A prophet who prepared the way for Jesus by preaching repentance and baptizing people.
- Scripture Reference: Matthew 3:1-3
- Simple Meaning: John exemplifies faithfulness and the call to prepare hearts for God’s work.
John (Apostle)
- Definition: One of Jesus’ closest disciples, author of the Gospel of John, three epistles, and Revelation.
- Scripture Reference: John 21:24
- Simple Meaning: John highlights love, truth, and the divinity of Christ in his writings.
Jonah
- Definition: A prophet sent to Nineveh who initially resisted God’s command but ultimately obeyed.
- Scripture Reference: Jonah 1:1-3
- Simple Meaning: Jonah demonstrates God’s mercy and the importance of obedience.
Jordan
- Definition: A river in Israel; crossing it symbolized entering the Promised Land.
- Scripture Reference: Joshua 3:15-17
- Simple Meaning: The Jordan represents transition, God’s guidance, and fulfillment of promises.
Joseph (Son of Jacob)
- Definition: Sold into slavery by his brothers, became a powerful leader in Egypt.
- Scripture Reference: Genesis 50:20
- Simple Meaning: Joseph’s life shows God’s providence and the ability to bring good from adversity.
Joshua
- Definition: Successor of Moses who led Israel into the Promised Land.
- Scripture Reference: Joshua 1:9
- Simple Meaning: Joshua exemplifies courage, faith, and obedience in following God’s commands.
Jubilee
- Definition: A special year in Israel (every 50 years) of rest, freedom, and return of property.
- Scripture Reference: Leviticus 25:10
- Simple Meaning: Jubilee represents God’s provision, justice, and restoration.
Judah
- Definition: One of Jacob’s sons and the tribe that became the Southern Kingdom of Israel.
- Scripture Reference: Genesis 49:10
- Simple Meaning: Judah’s lineage leads to the Messiah, Jesus Christ.
Judgment
- Definition: God’s righteous evaluation and decision concerning sin and righteousness.
- Scripture Reference: Romans 14:12
- Simple Meaning: Judgment emphasizes accountability and God’s justice.
Justice
- Definition: Acting in accordance with God’s law and righteousness; ensuring fairness and integrity.
- Scripture Reference: Micah 6:8
- Simple Meaning: God calls His people to live justly and reflect His character in society.
Jotham
- Definition: A king of Judah known for righteousness and building projects.
- Scripture Reference: 2 Chronicles 27:2-6
- Simple Meaning: Jotham’s reign illustrates obedience to God and wise leadership.
Jezreel
- Definition: A valley and prophetic symbol of God’s judgment and future restoration.
- Scripture Reference: Hosea 1:4
- Simple Meaning: Jezreel reminds believers of both God’s justice and mercy.
