Most people are simply unaware of the fact that 'proper names' (for both people and places) have great interpretive value (or 'meaning') in the Hebrew & Greek languages (the original languages of the Bible). This is not so in the English language! We tend to easily skip over proper names without giving them too much thought. This can prove to be a crucial mistake when reading certain parts of the Bible. Why is that? 

Bible names (their actual 'meanings') can often provide us with additional tid-bits of information regarding the people and/or places we're reading about; thereby providing us with a deeper sense of context. They quite often contain vital pieces of hidden information that help us to better understand what's going on in the story. How so? People and places (in ancient Bible times) were often given names based upon certain physical characteristics and/or personality traits unique to that person or place (similar to the modern nickname).

For example, let's take a closer look at the 'Garden of Gethsemane.'

Most people are consciously aware of the 'Garden of Gethsemane' from the gospel accounts of Matthew and Mark, but what does the word 'Gethsemane' truly mean? Does it mean anything at all? Well... with the help of a 'Bible Name Dictionary' we are quick to discover the true interpretive meaning (or 'value') behind the word 'Gethsemane.' Properly 'translated' into the English language (from the Greek), the word 'Gethsemane' means 'Oil Press.' Wow! See how it works? With the simple use of a 'Bible Name Dictionary' in conjunction with our own personal Bible study, we came away with some additional facts about the 'Garden of Gethsemane.' What facts? The 'Garden of Gethsemane' was located in the midst of an olive tree orchard. How amazing is that? It is our hope that you find this reference tool useful in your search for Bible truth.

Please Note: The Online Bible Name Dictionary is a work in progress.  If the Bible names you are trying to look up are not yet available, please contact us and we will move quickly to provide you with the information you seek. Thank you for your patience.