Over the thousands of years that the Bible was written and ultimately translated into various languages, the original definition and meaning of many words and phrases have been changed.

 

This is due to many factors including a bias of the translator, tradition, culture as well as many other factors.

 

It is very important to know the true definition and meaning of words based on the definition and meaning of the word at the time it was written.

 

This will give the proper definition and meaning to what the writer, thru the inspiration of the Holy Spirit is trying to convey to the reader. 

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At Seekers and Believers it is always our goal to seek the truth in God's word and properly interpret the Bible.

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Within this section of our website we will continually add words and phrases for which the original definitions and meaning may have been lost or changed over time.  This should be enlightening and instrumental in helping to understand more about God and his plan for us.

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REPENT

 

What is the definition of the word repent?  According to Websters Dictionary definitions for the word repent include:

 

   1.  To turn from sin and dedicate oneself to the amendment of one's life.

   2.  To feel regret or contrition

   3.  To change one's mind

 

The word Repent is typically used as intransitive verb which is a verb that does not need a direct object to complete its meaning. Run, sleep, travel, wonder, and die are all intransitive verbs.

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So which of the definitions given in Websters Dictionary is the correct definition for the word Repent as it is used in the Bible.

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The Greek word translated “repent”in the Bible is “metanoeo”. It means to change our mind about something. It’s a combination of “meta” (after) and “noeo” (to perceive or understand). It’s like saying, “I used to believe one way, but that was before I understood. Now that I understand I believe a different way. I have repented.”