PACE (STEP) -- Based on the step of a man a measure of length II Sam 6:13
PADDLE -- Used for digging a hole in the ground to cover waste a spade-like tool at the butt end of a spear. Deut 23:13
PAINT -- A cosmetic cover by the Hebrew women to paint around their eyes, The practice was condemned Jer 4:30 It was also used to adorn pagan temples and color walls. Ezek 23:14
PALACE -- A living place or residence for a king or other high official. An ivory throne was featured in Solomon's palace on Mount Zion near the temple. I Kings 7:1-12 ; 10:18 Pilate tried Jesus in the hall of Herod's palace Mark 15:16 Also in the palace of Caiaphas the high priest Matt 26:56-57
PALESTINE/PALESTINA -- Known as the land of the people of Israel this territory of the Canaanites. The name Palastine referred, especially the coastal plain south of Mt. Carmel, originally to the territory of the Plilistines. During the Christian era the name was extended to include all of the Holy Land. This included both sides of the Jordan River and the Dead Sea region south to Egypt.
PALM -- Named because of the leaf resembles a human hand, A tropical tree Exod 15:27 Mose references in the bible is the date palm which grows sixty to eighty feet tall.
PALMERWORM (LOCUST) -- Possibly a caterpillar or a distinct species of locust which lived by eating vegetation Joel 1:4 As a plague upon rebellious Israel this insect or worm was sent. Amos 4:9-10
PALSY -- A disease which caused paralysis and with it possible the loss of feeling Acts 8:7
PALTI -- Representing the tribe of Benjamin one of the twelve spies who scouted the land of Canaan Num 13:9
PALTIEL -- Appointed by Moses a leader of the tribe of Issachar to help divide the land of Canaan after its occupation by the Israelites Num 34:26
PAMPHYLIA -- Paul visited this coastal region in southern Asia Minor Acts 13:13 ; 14:24 Attalia was its main seaport with Perga as its capital Acts 14:25 On the day of Pentecost residents of Pamphylia were present in Jerusalem Acts 2:10
PAN (GRIDDLE) -- A cooking container or a utensil Lev 6:21
PANTHEISM -- Doctrine: Jews and Christians reject this doctrine which teaches that God and His universe are identical, or that physical thinks are merely attributes of an all encompassing God. They reject this doctrine because God created the universe separate and apart from Himself. Gen 1:1
PAPER -- It was made from reeds which grew on the banks of the Nile River in Egypt and was used for Papyrus or an ancient writing material. II John 12
PAPHOS -- On the Island of Cyprus a city where Paul blinded Elymas the magician which led to the conversion of the Roman governor, Sergius Paulus Acts 13:6-13
PAPS (BREASTS) -- An archaic old English word that was for breasts Luke 11:27
PARABLE -- A short story used to convey an important truth that is drawn from daily life. Jesus used this teaching device many times Matt 13:3 Nathan in the Old Testament used this device to convict King David of his sin of adultery II Sam 12:1-7 His parables drawn from daily life revealed lessons about salvation, the kingdom, and the future life Luke 15
PARACLETE (COUNSEL OR, ADVOCATE) -- A Greek word for the Holy Spirit which expresses the idea of a helper or aid called to one;s side. In the Gospels it is translated as "comforter" John 14:16 "Advocate" is also used in the epistle of John I John 2:1
PARADISE -- A word that was used by Jesus which describes the heavenly home of the redeemed II Cor 12:4 Luke 23:43
PARADOX -- A favorite teaching device of Jesus a contradictory statement which expresses a great truth. Jesus declared that a person became great by serving others Mark 10:43 Jesus also stated that a person could find his life by losing it. Matt 10:39
PARALYTIC -- Person who is paralyzed, Jesus honored the faith of a paralytic by offering healing and forgiveness Matt 9:1-7.
PARAMOUR (LOVER) -- A concubine or slave who provided sexual favors Ezek 23:20
PARAN/MOUNT PARAN/EL-PARAN -- In the Sinai Peninsula a mountainous wilderness region sometimes called Mount Paran Hab 3:3 and Elparan Gen 14:6 During their years in the wilderness the Israelites camped here Num 10:12 , 12:16
PARCHED CORN (ROASTED GRAIN, PARCHED GRAIN) -- Grains of wheat, barley, or millet that is roasted I Sam 25:18
PARCHMENT -- Made from the skin of goats or sheep, writing material. Timothy was asked by Paul to bring parchments to him in prison II Tim 4:13
PARDON -- Forgiveness: Those who repent and turn to the Lord God will pardon Isa 55:7 Extended pardon on his return son Luke 15:18-24 God promised to pardon Judah and Israel Jer 33:8-9
PARENTS -- People who bear and rear children. The many duties of the parents are to train them Deut 4:9 ; 6:6-7 correct them Deut 21:18-21 avoid favoritism Gen 25:28 avoid anger Eph 6:4 Parents who bring up their children in the nurture of the Lord God has promised to bless them. Prov 22:6 ; Eph 6:4
PARLOR -- For entertaining guests, a room in a house set aside for that. I Sam 9:22 Secret chamber for retreat I Chron 28:11 a room on the roof for enjoying cool breezes Judg 3:20-25
PARMENAS -- In the church at Jerusalem one of the seven men with a Greek background was chosen as "deacons" Acts 6:1-5
PAROUSIA -- A word that refers to the second coming of Christ in Greek
PARTHIANS -- A county north of Media and Persia, the inhabitants of Parthia. On the day of Pentecost the Parthians were in Jerusalem. Acts 2:1 , 9
PARTIALITY -- Showing preference or favoritism toward some one person or others. Free of hypocrisy or favoritism God's wisdom is available to everyone. Jas 3:17
PARTRIDGE -- In Palestine a wild bird prized for its eggs and meat. To a partridge sitting on eggs that will not hatch was likened by Jeremiah to ill-gotten wealth. Jer 17:11
PARVAIM -- A place which provided gold for the temple of Solomons but was unidentified. II Chron 3:6 This was the same place as Ophir some scholars believe. I Kings 9:28
PASHUR -- A priest that had Jeremiah imprisoned after striking him. Pashur and his household would die as captives in Babylonia was predicted by Jeremiah Jer 20:3-6
PASSOVER AND FEAST OF UNLEAVENED BREAD -- Commemorated the Exodus from Egypt a Jewish festival Josh 5:10-12 The Hebrew houses that were sprinkled with blood was pass over while killing the firstborn of every one else. Exod 12 The haste with which the slaves left Egypt is recalled by the seven day Feast of Unleavened Bread. Exod 12:33-34 On the night He was betrayed Jesus observed the Passover with His disciples. Luke 22:15 Our Passover is Christ Paul declared. I Cor 5:7
PASTOR -- One who instructs and leads a congregation. The coming of faithful pastors who would lead Israel back to God was predicted by Jeremiah. Jer 3:15 Pastors were to build up the body of Christ Eph 4:11-13
PASTORAL EPISTLES -- Paul's three letters 1st & 2nd Timothy and Titus The three epistles which deal with pastoral concerns and the practical matters involving the operation and government of a local church
PASTURE -- Livestock's grazing land. Used figuratively for the protection of God's people under the Good Shepherd Ps 23:1-2 ; Ezek 45:15
PATARA -- In Asia Minor a port of Lycia. On the way to Phoenicia Paul changed ships here. Acts 21:1-2
PATH -- A very crude road. Used figuratively for the route of one's life. The righteous people are warned not to walk the paths of darkness Prov 2:13-15
PATHROS (UPPER EGYPT) -- During the Babylonian exile the Jewish people live here and a name for where Egyptian civilization likely began. Jer 44:1, 15
PATIENCE -- Restraint or forbearance. The author of patience is God Rom 15:5 with Christ being the perfect model II Thess 3:5 In the service of Christ believers are urged to labor with patience I Thess 5:14
PATMOS -- Used as a prison by the Romans a desolate island in the Aegean Sea. The apostle John wrote the book of Revelation there while he was exiled. During this time period Christ revealed Himself to John to send messages to the seven churches of Asia Minor Rev 1:9-19
PARTRIARCH -- In the Old Testament times a head of a clan or tribe who ruled by authority passed down from father to oldest son. Notable examples of patriarchal rule are Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, alone with sons of Jacob and David. Acts 2:29 ; 7:8-9
PATROBAS -- Greeted and commended by Paul a fellow believer at Rome Rom 16:14
PAUL -- Born a free Roman citizen in the city of Tarsus in Asia Minor. He was named Saul from birth and came from the tribe of Benjamin. Brought up as a Pharisee in a well-to-do influential family he was schooled under the celebrated teacher Gamaliel and educated in Jerusalem, speaking both Greek and Hebrew. All the Jewish boys as the custom were taught a trade and his was tent-making. With his teaching he was a rabid persecutory of the Christians at the beginning of his adult life and believed that he was rendering a great service to God. He received authorization by the high priests to go to Damascus, after he witness the stoning of Stephen, to arrest the followers of Christ, and bring them back bound to Jerusalem. On the way to carry out this mission God gave him a vision which temporarily blinded him. This spectacular revelation resulted in his conversion to a Christian and then was known as Paul. He was baptized into Christianity by Ananias and began to preach that Christ was the Son of God in the synagogues. With the aid of the disciples he had to leave the city secretly by night because the Jews plotted against his life. Making three great missionary journeys to the Gentiles he preached in cites as Antioch, Jerusalem, Philippi, Athens, Corinth, and Ephesus. Three of his sermons were recorded in Acts. With a totally disregarding his personal danger the last time, Paul visited Jerusalem five times. He was arrested and held in Caesarea for almost two years for his returning with an offering that had been gathered in the Gentile churches for the Jerusalem famine sufferers. He was eventually sent to Rome for trial when he insisted on his rights as a Roman citizen after being brought before Felix, Festus, and Agrippa. He possibly went to Spain after he was acquitted in Rome. Some time late he was re-arrested , returned to Rome to be beheaded in 66 or 67 A.D. They say that when Paul was beheaded mild flowed from his veins after he converted one of Nero's concubines. Tradition says the place of his martyrdom is called Tre Fontana now. His body is buried where the church of St. Paul outside the Walls stands. He was not crucified because of being a Roman citizen. Fourteen of the twenty-seven books of the New Testament was written by Paul. I and II Thessalonians, I and II Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, I and II Thessalonians, I and II Timothy, Titus, Philemon, and Hebrews. All being epistles. His works and life are recorded by Luke in the Acts of the Apostles, Chapters 8 ; 9 ; 10 ; 11 ; 12 ; 13 ; 14 ; 15 ; 16 ; 17 ; 18 ; 19 ; 20 ; 21 ; 22 ; 23 ; 24 ; 25 ; 26 ; 27 ; 28
PAULUS, SERGIUS -- He was converted under Paul's ministry the Roman proconsul of Cyprus Acts 13:4-12
PAVEMENT, THE GABBATHA -- Paved with stone an area in Pilate's courtroom. Jesus was judged, sentenced to crucifixion and turned over to the mob here. John 19:13-16
PAVILION (DWELLING SHELTER) -- A booth or tent for members of the royal family or kings. Figuratively used for the dwelling place of God Ps 27:5
PE -- In the Hebrew alphabet it is the seventeenth letter and was used as a heading over Ps 119:129-136
PEACE -- Accord and harmony brought about by cordial relationships. Christians are urged to live peaceably with all people II Cor 13:11 ; II Tim 2:22 Peace has its source in God Phil 4:7 through Christ John 14:27 and the Holy spirit Gal 5:22
PEACOCK (BABOON) -- Imported by King Solomon, probably form Spain an exotic animal II Chron 9:21
PEARL -- Found in the shells of oysters a precious stone. Jesus liken the kingdom of heaven to a merchant seeking pearls. Matt 13:45-46
PEDAHEL -- Appointed by Moses to help divide the land of Canaan after its occupation by the Israelites, a leader of the tribe of Naphtali Num 34:28
PEKAH -- An army officer, Son of Remaliah and Israel's king 737-732 B.C. after the assassination of his predecessor Pekahiah II kings 15:25 -- 27 Pekah died in the conspiracy organized by Hoshea who then became king.
PEKAHIAH -- Israel's king 738 - 737 B.C. Son and successor of Menahem; he was killed by Pekah II Kings 15:23 -- 26
PELEG/PHALEC -- Shem's descendant Gen 10:25 , 32 Phalec: Luke 3:35
PELETHITES -- A division or unit of soldiers who remained loyal to David during the rebellions of Absalom and Shela II Sam 15:14-18 ; 20:7
PELICAN (DESERT OWI) -- Considered unclean by the Israelites this large bird Lev 11:13, 18 It was also used as a symbol of desolation and loneliness. Ps 102:6-7 Some believe this was the same bird that was called a cormorant Isa 34:11
PEN -- Various writing instruments, including the instruments that was used to write on scrolls Jer 8:8 , stone, parchment and skin Job 19:24
PENKNIFE (SCRIBE'S KNIFE) -- Used for sharpening the writing pen or reed pen, a small knife. Jer 36:23
PENIEL/PENUEL -- Jacob wrestled with an angel in this place east of the Jordan River near the Jabbok River. Gen 32:24-32 Penuel Judg 8:8
PENNY/PENCE (DE NARIUS) -- Of small value silver coin Matt 20:2-13 Pence Plural form Luke 10:35 Of an unskilled worker it generally equaled the daily wages.
PENTATEUCH -- The first five books of the Old Testament by Greek names. The Hebrews called it the Torah or the Law of Moses Ezra 7:6 Recognizing the value of the law Jesus came to fulfill its spiritual requirements Matt 5: 17-18 ; 12:5
PENTECOST/FEAST OF WEEKS/FREAST OF HARVEST -- Falling on the fiftieth day after the Passover an annual Jewish feast or holy period, commemorating the end of the harvest. When the Holy Spirit came in power upon the early Christian believers this was the holiday being observed in Jerusalem. Also this feast was also known as the Feast of Weeks and the Feast of Harvest Exod 34:22
PEOPLE OF GOD -- This phrase was for the nation of Israel and as well as used for the people of the new covenant, or the church. God called the Israelites His special people Deut 8:6-9 but all believers or whose hearts have been circumcised are also His people Rom 2:28-29 Believing Gentiles were also part of God's chosen generation Peter declared I Pet 2:9-10 God's people include every nation, kindred, and tongue Rev 2:9 ; 7:9
PEOR -- Across the Jordan River from Jericho a mountain of Moab. From Peor, Balaam and Balak with the intention to curse them observed the camp of the Israelites. Num 23:28 ; 24:1-2
PERDITION -- Those who have rejected Christ or the state of the damned. Because of his betrayal of Christ Jesus called Judas the "son of perdition" John 17:12 The final destiny of the ungodly is Perdition II Pet 3:7 as the final abode of the Antichrist as well Rev 17:8-11
PEREA -- For the territory east of the Jordan River across from Judea and Samaria a word used by some translation. Jews despised the Samaritans so that they often traveled from Galill to Judea by Perea to avoid going through the Samaritan's territory. Matt 4:15 ; 19:1
PEREZ-UZZAH -- Where Uzza was struck down for touching the ark, a name given by David to this site. II Sam 6:6-8
PERFECTION (MATURITY) -- A fulfillment or state of completion. Believers are to advance to mature teaching and perfection or fulfillment in good works. Heb 6:1 Believers were urged to keep striving for perfection by being like Christ Phil. 3:3:12-15
PERFUME -- Usually an extract of spices, a sweet smelling fragrance used in ointments, incense, and oils Prov 27:9
PERGA -- Visited by Paul the capital of Pamphylia. The city where John Mark left Paul and Barnabas Acts 13:13-14 On the return to Antioch after the first missionary journey Paul preached here. Acts 14:25
PERGAMOS (PERGAMUM) -- Addressed by John in Revelation a city where one of the seven churches of Asia Minor was located. For its toleration of sexual immorality and false teachings the church was rebuked. Probably a reference to a pagan temple in the city is the phrase "where Satan's seat is" Rev 2:12-17
PERIZZITES -- Subdued by Joshua's forces descendants of Periz Associated with the Canaanites natives of the hill country. Josh 3:10
PERSECUTION -- Punishment or oppression in matters of conscience or religious practice because of one's convictions. Not well grounded in the faith Believers cannot endure persecution Matt 13:21 Will inherit the kingdom of God declared Jesus to those who are persecuted because of commitment to Him. Matt 5:10-12
PERSEVERANCE -- The ability to endure or persistence through difficult circumstances. Labor for the Lord is never in-vain as Paul counseled to be steadfastness in the Lord's work. I Cor 15:58 A mark of God's son-ship is endurance of God's chastening or discipline Heb 12:7-8
PERSIA -- Covering what is now western Asia and parts of Africa and Europe a great empire reaching the heights of its greatness around 486 B.C. under Cyrus. Conquering Babylonia in 539 B.C the Persians allowed the Israelites to return to their native land II Chron 36:20-23 Allowed Nehemiah to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city wall was the Persian king Artaxerzes. Neh 2:1-8 In 330 B.C. the Greek military conqueror Alexander the Great defeated the Persians.
PERSIS --Greeted and commended by Paul a fellow believer. Rom 16:12
PESTILENCE -- A widespread fatal disease or plague Hab 3:5 Most of the time it usually coming as a result of God's judgment against sin Exod 5:3 ; Ezek 33:27
PESTLE -- Used for grinding grain or crushing other material, in a container known as a mortar. a short blunt tool Prov 27:22
PETER - Peter is the surname of Simon, who was the brother of Andrew. Both of them were Jesus' disciples. They were in the fishing business possibly with Zebedee and his sons James and John. They were from Galilee. Peter was one of the inner circle of three (Peter, James and John) with Peter being the spokesman for the Twelve and a natural born leader. The inner circle was privileged to be present at the rising of Jairus' daughter, the Transfiguration and the Agony in Gethsemane. He was the disciple who on the evening before the crucifixion denied Christ three times. John and Peter ran to the sepulcher on Easter morn to verity Mary's report of the Resurrection. Peter delivered his great sermon as spokesman for the twelve after the ascension on the day of Pentecost. Later in life he taught in the cities in Samaria and the Mediterranean seacoast. In Jerusalem he was put in prison. His escape was miraculous. John Mark and his wife accompanied him when he preached in Antioch. Peter was given the poser to perform miracles and he raised Dorcas from the Dead. Peter confounced Simon Magus, who was at Nero' court as a magician. Around 64 or 65 AD under Nero he was crucified upside down because felt unworthy to die as Jesus did. Tradition has it that his tomb is under the high altar of St. Peter's in Rome. Because Jesus' told Peter he was going to be given the keys of the kingdom of heaven Peter is represented in sacred art by a gold and silver key. Peter and Paul are the main characters in the Acts of the Apostles.
PETER, EPISTLES OF -- Two New Testament short epistles, probably from the apostle Peter, written to encourage Christians experiencing discouragement and persecution Ist Peter. Also to warn them against false teachers II Peter. To scoffers who doubted the second coming of Christ, since He had not yet returned in response Peter declared, "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" II Pet 3:9
PETHOR -- Home of Balaam who was sent to curse the Israelites, a town in northern Mesopotamia near the Euphrates River. Num 22:5-7
PETITION -- An earnest request. Esther's petition to save her people was granted by King Ahasuerus Esther 7:2-5 Petitions will be answered believers are confident of that. I John 5:14-15
PETRA -- South of the Dead Sea an ancient city. Petra was once the capital of Edom and later of Nabatea, named for its rocky terrain. The same city as Selah some scholars believe II Kings 14:7
| PHARAOH - - A general title used to designate the rulers of Egypt and the pharaoh of Egypt who is unnamed Exod 1:8-11 The Bible Pharaohs are | (1) | Shishak who plundered the temple when he attacked Jerusalem I Kings 14:25-26 |
| (2) | So, and King Hoshea of Israel made an alliance together. II Kings 17:4 | |
| (3) | Tirhakah, who joined King Hezekiah of Judah against Sennacherib of Assyrian II Kings 19:9 | |
| (4) | Nechoh's archers mortally wounded King Josiah of Judah at Megiddo II Kings 23:29 Necho: Jer 46:2 | |
| (5) | Hophra, God declared would fall to his enemies Jer 44:30 |
PHAREZ/PEREZ/PHARES -- Judah had twin sons by Tamar Gen 38:24-30 and this one was the founder of the family or clan of Pharzites Num 26:20-21 Perez Neh 11:4 Phares Matt 1:3
PHARISEES -- Pharisees were members of a Jewish sect that pledged to uphold the oldest Israel's traditions. They were the most powerful party (political or geligious ) during Jesus' time. Jesus exposed the Parisees as hypocrisy whod emphasized minute details of the law while neglection more impotant issues such as mercy, justice and love. Matt 23:1-7 In the New Testament the following were known for their generostly and noble spirit, Paul, Nicodemus, Joseph of Arimathea and Gamaliel.
PHARPAR -- Mentioned by the Assyrian commander Naaman one of two rivers of Damascus. When told by Elisha to bathe in the Jordan river rather than the rivers of Damascus He was offended II Kings 5:9-12
PHEBE (PHOEBE) -- Commended by Paul for her support of him and others a believer at Cenchrea near Corinth. Rom 16:1-2
PHENICE/PHENICIA (PHOENICIA) -- Including the cities of Sidon, Tyre, and Ptolemais a mediterranean coastal region. Descended from the Canaanites the inhabitants of Phoenicia became a seafaring and colonizing people. King Hiram of Tyre furnished cedar timber and craftsmen for the construction of men for the construction of Solomon's temple in Jerusalem II Sam 5:11 ; I Kings 5:1-10 Jesus ministered in this region Matt 15:21 and Christians fled here to escape persecution after Stephen's death. Acts 11:19 Phenicia: Acts 21:2
PHILADELPHIA -- In Asia Minor a city of Lycia and site of one of the seven churches of Asia Minor that was addressed in the book of Revelation Rev 1:11 For its faithfulness this church was commended. Rev 3:7-9
PHILEMON -- Philemon and wife, Apphia with their son were probably Paul's converts. The used their home in Colosse as a church. Paul wrote a private letter to Philemon on behalf of his runaway slave Onesimus. Philem 1
PHILEMON, EPISTLE TO THE -- To help a runaway slave named Onesimus, a convert under Paul's ministry, Paul wrote this short New Testament. Philemon, the owner of Onesimus and a fellow believer, was encouraged to welcome his slave back as a Christian brother Philem v 16. Paul asked or hinted that Philemon give Onesimus his freedom in the spirit of Christian love Philem v 21
PHILETUS -- For his false teaching about the resurrection Paul condemned this person. II Tim 2:17-18
| PHILIP | (1.) | The Apostle: His name is Greek, and if he had a Hebrew name it is unknown. Peter and Andrew came from the same town Bethsaida. The honor of being the second Christian missionary when he brought Nathanael (Bartholomew) to Jesus. The idea of Philip being a purveyor is based on John 6: 7. Philip was crucified where it is said he preached, Scythia and Parthia. Philip symbol is a tall slender cross and two loaves of bread. This shows his death and the feeding of the 5000. Matthew 10:3 ; Mark 3:18 ;Luke 6:14 ; John 1 , 6 12 , 14 He is believed to have died in Hierapolis and buried in st. Peters. |
| ( 2.) | The Deacon: As one of the seven who assumed the irresponsible for the business affairs of the Church in Jerusalem. He is considered as an evangelist to have been a forerunner of Paul, baptizing and preaching among the Gentiles. He is given the credit for covering the chamberlain of Queen Candace of Ethiopia. Philip and his four daughters lived in Caesarea where Paul was entertained in their home on his last journey to Jerusalem.
Acts 6:5 ; 8:5-40 ; 21:8
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| (3.) | In northern Palestine a Roman ruler See Herod No 4 |
PHILIPPI -- Where Paul and Silas were imprisoned in this city of Macedonia, but miraculously rescued by God. Lydia became the first convert in this city in Greece that was the first city in Greece to receive the gospel. Acts 16:12-34 Paul wrote a letter to the Christians in the church at Philippi while he was imprisoned in Rome. Phil 1:1
PHILIPPIANS, EPISTLE TO THE -- Written by Paul to the church at Philippi, a short New Testament epistle, to a group for whom the apostle expressed thanksgiving, admiration, and great appreciation Phil 1:1-11 In chapter II Paul appealed to these fellow believes to follow Christ's example of humility, In chapter III to continue to grown toward maturity to Christian service and in chapter IV to experience the peace and joy which Christ promises to all believers. Because of his exhortation "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, rejoice" Philippians has been called Paul's "epistle of joy" . Phil 4:4
PHILISTIA -- About forty miles long a coastal region beside the Mediterranean Sea which served as the land of the Philistines in Old Testament time. Gen 21:32-34 Chief cities of Philistia were Gaza, Gath, Ekron, Ashdod, and Askelon Josh 13:3
PHILISTINES/PHILISTIM -- Especially during the days of Saul and David the people of Philistia who were enemies of the Israelites. The Philistines often battled the Israelites after settling in Canaan. II Sam 5:17-25 Dagon Judg 16:23 and Baalzebub II Kings 1:2-3 were their chief pagan gods. After the Babylonian exile their kingdom disappeared. Phistim: Gen 10:14
PHILOLOGUS -- Paul sent greetings to this Christian at Rome Rom 16:15
PHILOSOPHY -- Regarding ultimate reality the study of truths. The early Christians encountered the teachings of the Stoics, Epicureans, and Greek dualism Acts 17:18 ; Col 2:8-10
| PHINEHAS | (1.) | The grandson of Aaron who became the high priest of Israel and chief of the Korahite branch of the Levites I Chron 9:19-20 At God's command he killed Cozbi and Zimri for allowing Israel to be corrupted with idolatry Num 25:6-15 |
| (2.) | A priest who corrupted his office with corrupt leadership and immorality I Sam 2:22-24 As foretold by a prophet Hophni and his brother Phinehas died in battle with the Philistines. I Sam 2:27 , 34 ; 4:10-11 Phinehas's wife also died in childbirth I Sam 4:19-20 | |
PHLEGON -- Greeted and commended by Paul a fellow believer at Rome Rom 16:14
PHRYGIA -- Paul visited this region of central Asia Minor. Acts 16:6 On the day of Pentecost Jews from Phrygia were in Jerusalem. Acts 2:10
PHUT/PUT -- Ham's son Gen 10:6 Put: I Chron 1:8
PHYGELLUS (PHYGELUS) -- He deserted the apostle Paul in the Roman province of Asia so Paul condemned this believer for that reason II Tim 1:15
PHYLACTERY -- Worn on the forehead or near the heart a verse of scripture. Exod 13:11-16 ; Deut 6:4-9 The conspicuous wearing of phylacteries was denounced by Jesus Matt 23:5
PHYSICIAN -- A person who practiced medicine or healer. In Egypt Medial studies were prominent. Gen 50:2 with physicians and midwives practicing among the Israelites II Chron 16:12 Luke was described as a beloved physician Col 4:14
PIGEON--Particularly by the poor a bird used for sacrifices. In most bible passages the word is interchangeably with dove. When Jesus was dedicated to God in the temple Mary and Joseph offered bird sacrifices. Luke 2:24
PILATE -- For twelve years including the ministry time of Christ, Pontius Pilate was the Roman governor of Judea. At the time of the Jewish Passover he went to Jerusalem to keep order but his official residence was Caesarea. Without offending the Jews Pilate was Hard-hearted and made every attempt to spare Jesus' life. Pilate ceremoniously washed his hands to show his innocence in the case after it was evident that the Jews would be satisfied with nothing less than Jesus' crucifixion. Six years later he was banished to Gaul after being summoned to Rome to answer for the massacre of a group of Samaritans. It is said to have committed suicide in 41 A.D. Matthew 27:2-65 ; Mark 15 ; Luke 23:1-52 ; John 18:29 -- 19:38
PILGRIMAGE -- When a person stayed in a foreign country Exod 6:4 Figuratively applied to the earthly life span Heb 11:13
PILLAR OF FIRE AND CLOUD -- In the wilderness supernatural signs which guided the Israelites Exod 13:21 The signs represented God's presence with His people and given to protect the Hebrews. Num 14:13-14 In the transfiguration of Christ these signs were repeated. Matt 17:5
PILLOW -- An item used for head rest for sleeping. The Hebrews used quilts, . Gen 28:18 netting of goat's hair I Sam 19:13 or a leather cushion Mark 4:38
PIN (PEG) -- A stake or peg. Brass or copper tent pins were used to hold the tabernacle's cords Exod 27:19 Nail is the Hebrew word for pin Judg 4:21
PINNACLE -- Perhaps an elevated area over Solomon's porch a wing of the temple. Jesus was tempted by Satan to do an spectacular leap from this high place to impress the crowds. Matt 4:5-7
PIPE (FLUTE) -- Probably blown like a flute a musical instrument. Isa 30:29
PISGAH, MOUNT -- Moses viewed Canaan before his death from this mountain peak in Moab Deut 34:1-6
PISIDIA -- Paul visited this large mountainous district in Asia Minor and preached in the city of Antioch Acts 13:14-16 , 44
PISON (PISHON) -- Of the four rivers which flowed out of the Garden of Eden this was one of them. Gen 2:10-14
PIT (CISTERN) -- A deep hole in the ground that may of been lightly covered to trap animals Jer 18:22 May of been what Joseph was cast into Gen 37:24 Sheol is referred to as a pit sometimes. Num 16:30
PITCH -- Probably asphalt or bitumen found in the Dead Sea area, a tar like substance that was used on Noah's ark to make it water proof. Gen 6:14
PITCHER (JAR) -- Vessel used to carry water Gen 24:14 Symbolically the word is used for the human life span Eccles 12:6
PITHOM -- Built by Hebrew slaves an Egyptian city Exod 1:11 East of the Nile Rive it was located in Goshen.
PITY -- Compassion toward others. "very pitiful and of tender mercy" Jas 5:11 pity on the pagan people of Nineveh Jon 4:10-11 The Israelites Isa 63:9
PLAGUE -- A epidemic or disastrous affliction. Often interpreted as signs of God's judgment were Plagues. Exod 9:14 The Egyptians for their failure to release the Hebrew slaves Ten plagues were sent. Exod 7-11 For their complaining in the wilderness the children of Israel were plagued. Num 11:1, 31-33
PLAIN -- A rolling expanse of land or meadow Judg 11:33 Rather than Canaan's hill country Lot chose the fertile plain near Sodom. Gen 13:10-12
PLASTER -- Used for coating walls and stones, a thick paste Lev 14:42
PLATTER (DISH, PLATE) -- A utensil or dish for food. Also use by Jesus figuratively to condemn the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy Matt 23:25-26
PLEDGE -- Something given or vow for security of a debt. An outer garment pledged by a poor man had to be returned at sunset for his use as a bed covering under the Mosaic Law. Exod 22:26-27 To take a pledged item a creditor was forbidden to enter his neighbor's house. Deut 24:10-11
PLEIADES -- As evidence of God's sovereignty a constellation of stars Job 9:9
PLOWSHARE -- Used to till the soil, a piece of iron at the end of a plow shaft. figuratively use for a coming age of peace Isa 2:4
PLUMBLINE -- Carpenters use this tool to determine precise uprightness of a wall. Used figuratively of God's test for the uprightness of His people Amos 7:7-9
POETIC WRITINGS -- Almost entirely written in poetic form fire books in the Old Testament. Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Song of Solomon, and Lamentation. also with sections of other books that use this form.
POETRY HEBREW -- Using parallelism rather than rhyming or alliteration to express ideas. An unique form of Hebrew writing which uses a repetition techniques known as parallelism .One line of poetry is advanced , repeated, or contrasted by the next line to convey thought in parallelism. An example would be "Have mercy upon me, O Lord; for I am weak:/ O Lord heal me; for my bones are vexed. Ps 6:2
POISON -- When introduced into the bloodstream or swallowed a deadly substance . Dipping the tips of arrows into poison Job 6:4 Figuratively the word is also used for destructive speech Jas 3:8
POLE -- A standard or banner was flown from these. Moses was instructed by God to place a "fiery serpent" upon a pole Num 21:8-9
POLYGAMY -- A man is allowed to have more than one wife at the same time in this family system. The Old Testament patriarchs practiced polygamy. Abraham Gen 16:1-4 Contrary to God original plan Gen 2:24 and divine ideal of marriage Matt 19:5
POLYTHEISM -- It is the act or practice of worshiping many gods, it is the opposite to monotheism which emphasized devotion to the one and only true God. All around Israel the nations surrounding Israel worshiped multiple gods, a practice which led to immorality Num 25: 1-9 prostitution II Kings 23:13-14 and child sacrifice Jer 7:29-34 The first two of the ten commandments not to worship other gods Exod 20:3-5
POMEGRANATE -- Bore apple-shaped fruit that was popular in Palestine- A small tree. This tree was discovered by the spies who explored Canaan Deut 8:7-8
POMMELS (CAPITALS) At the top of pillars or columns round ornaments. Used in Solomon's temple at Jerusalem II Chron 4:11-12
PONTUS -- Along the Black Sea in northern Asia Minor a coastal region where Aquila and Priscilla settled Acts 18:2 ; 1st Pet 1:1
POOL -- Supplied water for cities a water reservoir John 5:2 To pipe water into Jerusalem King Hezekiah of Judah built a pool with an aqueduct. II Kings 20:20
POOR -- Impoverished or needy people. The Lord instructed the Hebrews to show compassion on the poor Luke 14:13-14 For the poor gleanings of the harvest were left. Lev 19:9-10 ; Ruth 2 Compassion for widows and other poor persons were showed by Jesus Mark 12:42-44 To serve the neglected poor the early church appointed "deacons" Acts 6:1
POPLAR -- A tree that belonged to the willow family. To produce speckled flocks Jacob used poplar branches Gen 30:37-39
PORCH (PORTICO, VESTIBULE) -- A covered deck or veranda around a building. Of the temple in Jerusalem Solomon's porch was along the east side. I Kings 6:3
PORK -- An unclean meat to the Jews, the flesh of pigs Lev 11:7-8
PORTER (GATEKEEP, DOORKEEPER) -- A watchman or door keeper stationed at the city gates II Sam 18:26 private houses Mark 13:34 At the temple in Jerusalem Porters were assigned to guard duty. I Chron 23:5
PORTICO (COVERED COLONNADE) -- Another name for porch. A paralytic lying on one of the porches of the pool of Bethesda was healed by Jesus. John 5:2-8
POST (COURIER) -- A relay massager or a person who relayed messages for a high official or king. To order the Israelites to keep the passover Hezekiah used posts II Chron 30:6-10
POSTERITY -- One's children and one's grandchildren. King Baas-ha of Israel was told by the prophet Jehu that his sinful leadership would destroy him and his family I Kings 16:2-4
POT -- Usually made of clay a kitchen vessel Isa 29:16 In the sanctuary brass posts were used. I Kings 7:45
POTENTATE (SOVEREIGN) -- A person who has great authority or power. Upon his return Jesus Christ will be recognized as the only true Potentate I Tim 6:15
POTIPHAR -- Joseph was sold to Potiphar by the Midianites who was a high official of the Pharaoh of Egypt. Because of Potiphar's wife Joseph was imprisoned. Genesis 37:36 ; 39:1
POTI-PHERAH -- An Egyptian priest whose daughter Asenath married Joseph Gen 41:45
POTSHERD -- A piece or fragment of pottery that is often used by the poor for a drinking vessel or for carrying coals Ps 22:15
POTTAGE (STEW) - A very thick soup made from vegetables. Hag 2:12 Jacob paid this for his brother's Esau's birthright Gen 25:29-34
POTTER -- Using a revolving wheel a craftsman who made vessels form clay Jer 18:3 The power of the potter over the clay was symbolic of the Creator's sovereignty to Isaiah Isa 45:9
POTTER FIELD -- Outside of Jerusalem a burial place for poor people. The betrayal silver returned by Judas to Jewish officials bought the field Matt 27:6-8
POTTERY -- Vessels made by hand from clay. Symbol of Judah's coming destruction was cited by Jeremiah by the broken piece of pottery. Jer 19:1-11
POUND (PINT, MINA) -- A uncertain volume of a dry measure. Jesus was anointed with a pound of costly ointment by Mary of Bethany John 12:3 Also the term was used for money. Luke 19:12
PRAETORIUM (GOVERNOR'S HEADQUARTERS -- Official residence at Jerusalem of the Roman governor. Mocked by the soldiers at Pilate's residence Mark 15:16
PRAISE -- Worship of God with thanksgiving and honor Ps 42:14 With our praise God is pleased and glorified Ps 50:23 In Jesus' model prayer our praise of the Father is commanded. Matt 6:9-13
PRAYER -- Communion with God. The Elements of sincere prayer are thanksgiving Phil 4:6, intercession Jas 5:15 supplication I Tim 2:1-3 confession I John 1:9 and adoration Matt 6:9-10 Jesus gave His disciples a model prayer to follow in their communion with the Father Matt 6:9-13 Jesus prayed all the time, He arose early in the morning Mark 1:35 to pray and prayed all night the night before choosing the twelve Luke 6:12 On the night of His betrayal he prayed in Gethsemane Luke 22:44 and then on the cross prayed for His enemies Luke 23:34
PREACH -- A directive or command. When human precepts rather than God's commands are given priority vain worship results. Matt 15:9
PRECEPT -- A directive or command. When human precepts rather than God's commands are given priority your results are vain worship. Matt 15:9
PREDESTINATION -- For the eternal salvation of those who choose Him is God's plan for them. For those who love Him and are called within His purpose God has ordained good Rom 8:28 Will be justified and will share God's glory those called to salvation. Rom 8:30 Those will be adopted by God, redeemed and given an eternal inheritance those chosen before the foundation of the world. Eph 1:4-11
PREPARATION DAY -- The celebration of a religious festival or the day before the Jewish Sabbath Matt 27:62 For the Passover celebration preparation involved baking unleavened bread, cooking the Passover meal, and choosing the correct appropriate clothing for the occasion.
PRIDE --Conceit, vanity, or arrogance. This sin results in self-deception Jer 49:16 and self-righteousness Luke 18:11-12 Paul in his fellowship with the Philippians however expressed justifiable pride. Phil 1:3-6
PRIEST -- Makes sacrificial offerings a religious leader. The priesthood originated with Aaron, and all of his descendants were sanctified to the office of priest hood. Exod 29:9 ; 44 Jesus paid for our sins once and for all by sacrificing Himself as our faultless high priest. Heb 7: 26-26
PRIESTHOOD OF BELIEVERS -- The doctrine that each believer has direct access to God when Jesus died. When Jesus died on the cross this was symbolized by the torn veil in the temple at Jerusalem, providing access to the holy of holies for all believers Matt 27:50-51 The only authorized mediator between God and man is Christ Eph 3:11-12 Believers should minister to other in a spirit of love Gal 3:28
PRIESTHOOD OF CHRIST -- As the Son of God one of Christ's offices, emphasizing His offering of Himself on our behalf. By making a perfect sacrifice "by his own blood" Christ obtained eternal redemption for believers. Heb 9:11-12
PRINCE (RULER) -- A title for tribal officials who is a leader or ruler. Ezod 2:14 "Prince of Life" was the title for Jesus. Acts 3:15 Jesus was also called "prince of the kings of earth" Rev 1:5 Satan was titled with the ruler of evil John 12:31
PRINCESS -- The daughter of a king. There were many princess among the children of King Solomon I Kings 11:3
PRINCIPALITY -- A powerful class of demons and angels. Christ is far above all cosmic and earthly powers Eph 1:21 ; 3:10 His victory over hostile principalities will be share by Believers. Col 2:10
PRISON -- A place for prisoner's confinement, often consisting of little more than a crude hole, dungeon or cistern in the ground in the Old Testament time. Jer 52:11 Paul used his prison time as an opportunity to advance the gospel II Cor 6:3-5 ; Phil 1:12-14
PRIVY -- Something kept secret or private. Shimei's heart was privy to the wickedness plotted against King David was spoken by Solomon. I Kings 2:44
PROCHORUS -- Chosen as "deacons" in the church at Jerusalem one of the seven men of Greek background. Acts 6:5
PROCLAMATION --The announcement or reading of an official decree. King Cyrus of Persia proclamation proclaimed that the Jewish prisoners could return to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem Ezra 1:1-3
PROCONSUL -- Possibly the second in command an official of a Roman province. The proconsul Gallio at Corinth is who Paul was brought before. Acts 18:12
PRODIGAL SON -- Jesus' main character in his parable who spent his inheritance foolishly, finally returning home to his father to ask forgiveness and reinstatement as a servant after spending all of his inheritance. His father representing the forgiveness and love of God, welcomed him back as a son Luke 15:11-32
PROGNOSTICATOR -- Using or consulting the stars, a fortune-teller, one who foretold the future In spite of the power of these astrologers the Lord promised to judge Babylonia Isa 47:12-14
PROMISE -- A guarantee or pledge particularly of some blessing from God. (1.) A Savior promised from the house of David Isa 7:13-14 ; Matt 1:20-23 (2.) The land of Canaan promised to Israel Exod 6:4 (3.) Promise of a son to Abraham Gen 18:10
PROPHET -- Prophets were described as the servants of God. Zech 1:6 An inspired messenger to declare His will called by God Ezra 5:2 Watchmen Ezek 3:17 ; II Pet 1:21 Prophets were cited as a noble example of patient suffering in the New Testament. Jas 5:10
PROPHETESS -- The wife of a prophet or a female prophet (1.) Miriam Exod 15:20 (2.) Deborah Judg 4:4 (3.) Jhldah II Kings 22:14 (4.) Anna Luke 2:36 (5.) Four daughters of Philip Acts 21:8-9
PROPITIATION -- Expiation or Atonement. Through "faith in his blood" Christ was appointed to be a propitiation for our sins Rom 3:24-25 The supreme demonstration of love was His sacrificial death for us. I John 4:10
PROSELYTE (CONVERT) -- Gentiles who converted to Judaism. Many Gentile converts renounced their pagan lifestyle but refused circumcision. Well -known proselytes of the Bible include Nicolas of Antioch, Cornelius, and Lydia Acts 6:5
PROVENDER (FODDER) -- Consisting of chopped straw mixed with barley, beans or dates and given to livestock for food Gen 24:32
PROVERBS, BOOK OF -- Written by Solomon an Old Testament book of wisdom with short, pithy sayings. STRONG DRINKS; Prov 23:20-21 PRIDE Prov 16:18 WORK Prov 6:6-11 FAMILY Prov 19:11 FRIENDSHIP Prov 17:17 ANGER Prov 19:11 SPEECH Prov 15:1-4 SEXUAL TEMPTATION Prov 5:1-23 HONESTY IN BUSINESS Prov 2;1-4
PROVIDENCE -- Of human events Divine guidance. Neh 9:6 With his purpose Eph 1:11 Within spiritual principles Gal 6:7-9
PROVINCE -- A section or district of a nation. Often it was the outlying area of an world power such as the Roman and Persian empires. Esther 3:12 This word refers to districts controlled and conquered by the Romans in the New Testament. Acts 25:1
PROVISION -- A ration or supple of some substance such as food. A large provision of food was required by Solomon's court I Kings 4:22-23
PRUDENT (LEARNED, INTELLIGENT) -- To have understanding or discernment. The prudent person is crowned with knowledge Prov 14:18 and foresees evil Prov 22:3
PRUNINGHOOK -- A tool that is used for cutting vines and shrubs. When ever some one would beat pruning-hooks into spears it was a sigh of war Joel 3:10 Then the sign of peace was the opposite. Spears into pruning-hooks Isa 2:4
PSALMS, BOOK OF -- An Old Testament poetic book filled with hymns of praise, prayers of thanksgiving to God and laments against one's enemies and misfortune. It is derived from a Greek word which implies that they were sung to the accompaniment of a musical instrument of some type. King David of Judah wrote many of the psalms along with many other unknown writers.
PSALTERY (LYRE, HARP) -- Probably similar to the harp a stringed musical instrument I Sam 10:5
PTOLEMY -- From about 323 to 30 B.C. the title of Greek kings who ruled throughout Egypt and Palestine . Daniel's visions may of referred to these kings. Dan 11:5-30
PUBLICAN (TAX COLLECTOR) -- Working for the Roman government a Jewish citizen who purchased the right to collect taxes in a specific area of his country. Their fellow citizens hated and looked upon as traitors Matt 5:46 ; 9:9-11 Zacchaeus Luke 19:1-10
PUBLIUS -- Entertained Paul on the island of Miletus after a ship-wreck, a Roman official. Paul healed his father from a fever Acts 28:7-8
PUDENS -- Joined Paul in sending greetings to Timothy a believer at Rome II Tim 4:21
PULSE (VEGETABLES) Food made from vegetables, food eaten by Daniel and his friends Dan 1:12-16
PUNISHMENT -- A penalty of wrongdoing, "my punishment is greater than I can bear" Gen 4:13 ; "an eye for an eye" Matt 5:38-39
PURIFICATION -- Spiritual or ceremonial cleansing. Purification rites were prescribed by Mosaic law for those ceremonially defiled by touching a corpse, by contact with bodily discharges, by childbirth, and by leprosy Lev 14-15 Turtle doves and pigeons were offered by the mother of Jesus as a sacrifice in her ceremonial cleansing. Luke 2:21-24
PURIM, FEAST OF -- The Jewish festival which celebrated the rescue of the Jews people from Haman's oppression during Esther's time Esther 9:21-32
PURPLE -- A bright dye made from shellfish, that was preferred by kings and other royal officials. Lydia sold purple cloth as a businesswoman. Acts 16:14
PURSE -- Used for carrying items a bag. Luke 10:4 Jesus' instructions was probably a money bag Mark 6:8
PUTEOLI -- Visited by Paul a seaport city of Italy Acts 28:13-14
PYGARG (IBEX) -- Considered unclean by the Jews an animal belonging to the deer family, perhaps the antelope or the addax. Deut 14:5
