Glossary

Scripture & the Rosary:
New Testament Mysteries,
Old Testament Parallels

The following proper nouns identify people and places mentioned in the primary biblical text for the Turning to God’s Word Bible study Scripture & the Rosary: New Testament Mysteries, Old Testament Parallels. Spelling, capitalization, and hyphenation follow the style used in the Revised Standard Version Second Catholic Edition (RSVCE).

Aaron—Aaron and his brother Moses were descendants of Jacob’s third son Levi. Only the descendants of Aaron were chosen by God to be priests. Moses’ relationship with God was that of a prophet—a role superior to that of any priest. The sixteenth chapter in the book of Exodus describes the Israelites murmuring against Aaron and Moses because there was no food in the wilderness; God responded by sending manna. The thirty-fourth chapter in the book of Exodus describes Aaron witnessing the shining skin of Moses’ face after Moses met with God. The name Aaron means “lofty” or “exalted.” Lessons 25–26
Abednego—The third chapter in the Book of Daniel identifies Abednego as one of the three young men consigned to the fiery furnace. Abednego means “servant of light.” Lesson 17
Abiathar—The son of Ahimelech, mentioned in the fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel, was a member of the priestly clan of Eli. Abiathar was the only priest to escape the slaughter at Nob. Abiathar means “abundant father.” Lesson 15
Abishai—In the sixteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel, David chastises Abishai for seeking to punish Shime-i for cursing David. Abishai was the son of David’s sister Zeruiah. Abishai means “gift of God.” Lesson 13
Abraham—The Old Testament frequently refers to three major patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and their covenant with God. Abraham is honored as father of the faith by Christians and Jews. The sixth chapter in the Letter to the Hebrews mentions God’s promise of blessing and children to Abraham. The eighteenth chapter in the book of Genesis records three mysterious men promising Abraham and his wife Sarah a child. The twenty-fourth chapter in the book of Genesis records that Abraham’s trusted servant was influential in obtaining a wife for Isaac from Abraham’s people in Mesopotamia. In the first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke, the Blessed Virgin Mary refers to Abraham as an honored forefather of the Israelites. The name Abraham means “father of multitudes” or “father of many”; his birth name of Abram means “exalted father.” Lessons 4–5,8
Absalom—The fifteenth and sixteenth chapters in the Second Book of Samuel describe David’s reaction to his son Absalom’s attempt to usurp the throne. Absalom was the third son of David. Absalom’s mother was Maacha, and he was born at Hebron. Absalom means “father of peace.” Lessons 12–13
Acts of the Apostles—Acts of the Apostles is a New Testament book that continues the story of the Gospel According to Luke after the Resurrection of Jesus. It is thought to have been written by the same author as the Gospel According to Luke. The first chapter in Acts of the Apostles records details of Jesus’ Ascension. The second chapter in Acts of the Apostles describes the first Christian Pentecost. The word “acts” points to what the followers of Jesus were doing to establish the early Church after Jesus’ Ascension. Apostle means “one who is sent.” Lessons 18–19
Agagite—The exact meaning of Agagite, used in the eighth chapter in the Book of Esther, is unknown; scholars speculate that it may relate to King Agag of the Amalekites since the Amalekites were a major enemy of the Israelites. Scholars also speculate that Agagite may be synonymous with antisemite. Lesson 21
Ahasu-erus—The eighth chapter in the Book of Esther recounts Esther’s bravery in approaching King Ahasu-erus in the face of a serious threat to the Jews posed by Haman the Agagite. Ahasu-erus means “lion king.” Lesson 21
Ahima-az—Ahima-az was the son of Zadok the priest. The fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel records David sending Ahima-az back to Jerusalem along with the ark of the covenant of God. Ahima-az means “brother of anger.” Lesson 15
Ammonites—The twelfth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel describes the prophet Nathan accusing David of using the sword of the Ammonites to ensure that Uriah the Hittite was murdered. The Ammonites were descended from an incestuous union between Abraham’s nephew Lot and Lot’s younger daughter. They take their name from Ben-ammi, which means “son of my kindred.” Lesson 14
ark of the covenant of God—The ark of the covenant of God was a gold box containing the Ten Commandments given by God to Moses. The fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel records David refusing to allow the ark to accompany him when he fled Jerusalem ahead of Absalom, who was attempting to usurp the throne. Lesson 15
Assyrians—Assyria, the ancient Assyrian homeland, encompassed areas of present-day Iraq, Iran, Turkey, and Syria. The former kingdoms of Assyria and Syria originally were unrelated, although their founders, Asshur and Aram, were brothers and grandsons of Noah in the line of Shem. The Assyrians conquered Aram, the original name of Syria, shortly before conquering the northern kingdom of Israel; the Babylonians eventually conquered Assyria. At that time both Assyria and the remnant of Aram ceased to exist. The gory tale of how Judith slayed Holofernes and saved her people from the Assyrians is recounted in the thirteenth chapter in the Book of Judith. Assyrians take their name from Asshur. Lesson 20

—B—

Bahurim—Bahurim was a city east of Jerusalem near the Mount of Olives in territory allotted by God to the tribe of Benjamin. The city is mentioned in the sixteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel as the location where Shime-i cursed David. Bahurim means “choice young men.” Lesson 13
Barabbas—The eighteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John identifies Barabbas as the robber Pilate freed instead of Jesus. Barabbas means “son of the father.” Lesson 13
Beer-lahai-roi—The twenty-fourth chapter in the book of Genesis notes that Isaac had been at Beer-lahai-roi and was staying in the Negeb when he met Rebekah. Beer-lahai-roi means “well of the vision of life.” Lesson 5
Benjaminite—The sixteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel identifies Shime-i as a Benjaminite from the house of Saul. Benjamin means “son of the south.” Lesson 13
Bethlehem—Also called the city of David, Bethlehem is identified in the second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke as the location where Jesus was born. Bethlehem is about six miles south of Jerusalem. Bethlehem means “house of bread.” Lesson 9
Bethuel—The twenty-fourth chapter in the book of Genesis identifies Bethuel as the father of Rebekah, who became Isaac’s wife. Bethuel means “house of God.” Lesson 5
Book of Daniel—Scholars speculate that the Old Testament Book of Daniel was written about 400 years after the Babylonian Exile in order to encourage descendants of Jacob facing difficulties in Judea under the reign of the Seleucid ruler Antiochus Epiphanes, who encouraged Greek culture at the expense of longstanding Hebrew tradition. The parts of the Book of Daniel that are deuterocanonical are included in the Catholic canon but not in most Protestant Bibles. The work traditionally is credited to a prophet identified as Daniel, whose name means “God is my judge.” Lesson 17
Book of Esther—The parts of the Book of Esther that are deuterocanonical are included in the Catholic canon but not in most Protestant Bibles. Esther refers to the main figure in the work. Esther means “star.” Lesson 21
book of Exodus—The book of Exodus is the second book in the Bible and part of the Torah—the first five books of the Old Testament. It covers the Exodus out of Egypt and God’s covenant with the descendants of Jacob. Exodus means “a way out.” Lessons 22–26
book of Genesis—The book of Genesis is the first book of the Bible and part of the Torah—the first five books of the Old Testament. It covers Creation and the early history of God’s people. Genesis means “beginning.” Lessons 4-6
Book of Isaiah—Scholars speculate that the Book of Isaiah was written by three authors who shared similar apocalyptic views. Proto- (First) Isaiah covers the first through thirty-ninth chapters; Deutero- (Second) Isaiah covers the fortieth through fifty-fifth chapters; and Trito- (Third) Isaiah covers the fifty-sixth through sixty-sixth chapters. Isaiah is an umbrella term for the author or authors of this Old Testament book of prophecy. Isaiah means “salvation of the LORD.” Lesson 19
Book of Judith—The Book of Judith is deuterocanonical, which means it’s included in the Catholic canon but not in most Protestant Bibles. Judith refers to the main figure in the work. Judith means “praised.” Lesson 20
book of Revelation—The book of Revelation is the final work in the New Testament. It is considered the most apocalyptic book in the Bible. The word apocalypse means “an uncovering” and has come to be associated with cataclysmic events. In Scripture, revelation and apocalypse are synonymous and describe a transformational confrontation with the divine, something that humanity could not know or experience unless shown by God. Lesson 21
book of the Psalms—See Psalms.

—C—

Caesar, Caesar Augustus—The second chapter of the Gospel According to Luke identifies the reason that the Blessed Virgin Mary and Joseph were traveling to Bethlehem was to take part in a tax census ordered by the Roman Caesar Augustus. Everyone was required to go to the location where they owned property; scholars speculate that Joseph, a descendant of David, claimed land in the area of Bethlehem. The nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John refers to Caesar Augustus as Caesar, and Jews in Jerusalem tell Pilate that they have no king but Caesar. The Romans, who were opposed to the idea of kings, instead referred to their leaders as Caesars. Caesar means “head of hair”; Augustus means “magnificent.” Lessons 9,15
Cana—Cana is a town about four miles northeast of Nazareth in Galilee. The second chapter in the Gospel According to John identifies Cana as the location where Jesus performed his first sign, changing water into wine. Cana means “place of reeds.” Lesson 23
Chosen—In the ninth chapter in the Gospel According to Luke, God identifies Jesus as his Son and his Chosen, indicting that Jesus was selected to have a special relationship with the deity. Lesson 25
Christ—The title Christ or Christ the Lord acknowledges Jesus as the Messiah. Christ is a Greek translation of the Hebrew term Messiah, which means “Anointed One.” Lesson 9–10
city of David—See Bethlehem.
Clopas—The nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John identifies Mary, the wife of Clopas, among those witnessing Jesus’ Crucifixion. Mary means “bitterness” or “beloved”; Clopas means “renowned father.” Lesson 16
Corinthians—See First Corinthians.

—D—

Daniel—See Book of Daniel.
David—David was the youngest son of Jesse of Bethlehem. David was chosen by God as the first king after Saul to rule over the 12 tribes of Israel. The seventh chapter in the Second Book of Samuel contains God’s promise to raise up one of David’s descendants as an eternal king. At the time of Jesus, Jews looked forward to the coming of a Messiah or Anointed One as a political ruler in the line of David. The twelfth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel records the prophet Nathan pointing out David’s sin with Bathsheba; in Psalm 51, known as the Miserere, David expresses sorrow. The fifteenth and sixteenth chapters in the Second Book of Samuel describe David being forced to flee Jerusalem in advance of his son Absalom, who was seeking to usurp the throne. Although Psalm 22 doesn’t mention David by name, that Psalm traditionally is thought to have been composed by David after he experienced a vision of the crucified Christ. The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records that the Blessed Virgin Mary was betrothed to marry a man identified as Joseph of the house of David, establishing Mary’s husband and Jesus’ earthly father as a descendant of David. The name David means “beloved” or “friend.” Lessons 7,9,12–16

—E—

Egypt/Egyptians—Egypt was a great-grandson of Noah, born into the line of Ham. Egypt’s lineage is described in the tenth chapter in the book of Genesis, often called the “Table of Nations.” In the forty-sixth chapter in the book of Genesis, the geographical land of Egypt is described as a place of refuge during a time of severe famine, but in Scripture Egypt sometimes represents a location of enslavement. People who dwell in Egypt are called Egyptians. The fourteenth chapter in the book of Exodus describes the Israelites’ dramatic escape from the Egyptians. In the sixteenth and seventeenth chapters in the book of Exodus, the Israelites express dissatisfaction over leaving Egypt. Scholars are uncertain about the meaning of the word Egypt; they speculate that it’s related to the idea of “place.” Lessons 6,22–24,26
elders of Israel—In the seventeenth chapter in the book of Exodus, the term elders of Israel describes Israelites entitled to respect. Elder implies advanced age; Israel means “may God prevail” or “he who struggles with God.” Lesson 23
(the) Eleven—When used with the article the, spelled out, and capitalized, the Eleven refers to Jesus’ original 12 disciples minus Judas Iscariot. The second chapter in Acts of the Apostles records that all of the Eleven were present at Pentecost. Eleven means a whole number one more than 10 and one fewer than 12. Lesson 19
Eli—The first chapter in the First Book of Samuel introduces Eli as the priest who announced that Hannah was going to give birth to a son. The same chapter identifies Eli as the priest in whose care Hannah left her son. In the third chapter in the First Book of Samuel, Eli is identified as the person who instructed Samuel about how to respond to God’s call. Eli means “high” or “elevated.” Lessons 7,10–11
Elijah—Despite not having written any book of prophecy, Elijah is considered representative of all Old Testament prophets. The second chapter in the Second Book of the Kings describes Elijah being transported upward in a chariot of fire drawn by horses of fire. The ninth chapter in the Gospel According to Luke describes Elijah appearing with Moses at Jesus’ Transfiguration. Elijah means “Yahweh is my God.” Lessons 18,25
Elisha—The second chapter in the Second Book of the Kings describes Elijah’s disappearance, which Elisha witnessed, divine evidence that Elisha received a double portion of Elijah’s spirit. Elisha means “God is my salvation.” Lesson 18
Elizabeth—The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke identifies Elizabeth as the Blessed Virgin Mary’s cousin and the mother of Jesus’ cousin John. John is called “the Baptist” in the synoptic Gospels According to Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Elizabeth means “God’s promise.” Lesson 8
Elkanah—The first chapter in the First book of Samuel identifies Elkanah as the husband of Hannah and the father of Samuel. Elkanah means “God has purchased.” Lesson 9
Esther—The eighth chapter in the Book of Esther recounts Esther’s bravery in dealing with King Ahasu-erus to resolve a threatening situation for the Jews. Esther means “star.” Also see Book of Esther. Lesson 21
Exodus—See book of Exodus.

—F—

Father—In the second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke, Jesus identifies the Temple in Jerusalem as his Father’s house. Scripture capitalizes Father to indicates that Jesus is claiming to be God’s Son. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus addresses God as Father, emphasizing the intimacy of their familial relationship. Lessons 11–12,18,20,26
First Book of Samuel—The First and Second Books of Samuel in the Old Testament are classified as historical and cover the life of the prophet Samuel as well as the reigns of Saul and David, who ruled over the united kingdom of all 12 tribes of Israel. Samuel refers to the prophet; his name means “God has heard.” Lessons 7–11
First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians—The ancient city-state of Corinth was about halfway between Athens and Sparta on the Isthmus of Corinth; its ruins are about three miles northeast of the modern city of Corinth in present-day Greece. The First and Second Letters of Paul to the Corinthians in the New Testament are addressed to early Christians living in the ancient city-state. Corinth means “satisfied.” Lesson 6

—G—

Gabbatha—The nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John describes the place where Pilate judged Jesus as Gabbatha, or The Pavement. Gabbatha means “elevated platform.” Lesson 15
Gabriel—The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke describes an angel telling the Blessed Virgin Mary that she was chosen to become Mother of the long-awaited Messiah. Gabriel means “God is my strength.” Lesson 7
Galilee—The region of Galilee in northern Israel is bounded on the south by the Jezreel Valley, on the north by the mountains of Lebanon, on the east by the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River, and on the west by the coastal mountains near the Mediterranean Sea. The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke locates the home of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Nazareth, a city in Galilee. The third chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew, in one of the synoptic accounts of his baptism in the Jordan River, describes Jesus coming from Galilee to meet with his cousin John. The second chapter in the Gospel According to John describes Jesus’ sign of changing water to wine at a wedding in Galilee. The sixteenth chapter in the Gospel According to Mark records that the disciples were told by a mysterious young man to go to Galilee to encounter the risen Jesus. The first chapter in Acts of the Apostles refers to the disciples as men of Galilee; they’re asked why they persist in looking at the sky for Jesus. Galilee means “circle” or “circuit.” Lessons 7,17–18,22–23
Genesis—See book of Genesis.
Gentiles—Gentiles refers to anyone not of Jewish heritage, which in Scripture usually means not descended from Jacob; the term Jew, however, refers to practitioners of the religion of Judaism, which developed around the time of the Babylonian Exile—597 to 538 B.C. The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records Simeon blessing the baby Jesus and foretelling that Jesus would be a light of revelation for the Gentiles. Gentiles means “nations.” Lesson 10
Gera—The sixteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel identifies Gera, a Benjaminite, as the father of Shime-i. Gera means “combat.” Lesson 13
Gethsemane—The twenty-sixth chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew records that Jesus took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, James and John, with him when he went to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. Gethsemane means “oil press.” Lesson 12
Gittite—The fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel records that David’s supporter Ittai was a Gittite, a Philistine inhabitant of Gath. Many of David’s Israelite supporters who followed him from Gath are referred to as Gittites; scholars speculate that most originally were from the tribe of Judah. Lesson 12
God, Lord, LORD—The words God and LORD are used repeatedly throughout Scripture to refer to the single deity worshiped by Hebrews, Israelites, Jews, and Christians. The two words occasionally are combined as LORD God, but they still refer to the same monotheistic deity. The Greek word kyrie, often translated as “Lord” as a title for Jesus, enters the Catholic Mass in the phrase Kyrie eleison or “Lord, have mercy.” Turning to God’s Word (TtGW) uses regular capital letters for the word “LORD” on the website when it appears in small capital letters in printed biblical text; TtGW uses small capital letters in printed texts. The word “Lord” in uppercase and lowercase letters generally is used in Scripture as an honorary title for a human person, but “Lord” occasionally appears as a reference to God.
God of Elijah—The second chapter in the Second Book of the Kings records Elisha using the title God of Elijah to address God after Elijah departed in a chariot of fire. Lesson 18
God of Israel—Used throughout the Old Testament, the title God of Israel draws attention to God’s covenant relationship with the descendants of Jacob, who also are called Israelites. Lessons 7,14
Golgotha—Described in the nineteenth chapter of the Gospel According to John as “The Pavement,” Golgotha means “bald head” or “skull.” Lesson 15
Goshen—The forty-sixth chapter in the book of Genesis records that Jacob sent his son Judah ahead to speak to Joseph at Goshen, a fertile area at the mouth of the Nile River. Goshen means “drawing near.” Lesson 6
Gospel According to John—John is the traditional author of the Gospel that bears his name, which sometimes is called the Fourth Gospel; the author of that work is thought to have been one of the original 12 disciples. John also is the traditional author of the book of Revelation. John means “God is gracious.” Lessons 13–16,20,23
Gospel According to Luke—Luke is the traditional author of the synoptic Gospel that bears his name; he wasn’t one of the original 12 disciples. Luke also is the traditional author of Acts of the Apostles. Luke means “light-giving.” Lessons 7–11,25
Gospel According to Mark—Mark is the traditional author of the synoptic Gospel that bears his name; he wasn’t one of the original 12 disciples. Mark means “warlike.” Lesson 17
Gospel According to Matthew—Matthew is the traditional author of the synoptic Gospel that bears his name; he’s thought to have been one of the original 12 disciples. Matthew means “gift of God.” Lessons 12,22,24,26
Greek—In the nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John, Greek refers to the language spoken in Greece; Greek also can refer to a person from Greece. Because of the extensive conquests of Alexander the Great, Greek was the primary language spoken throughout the Roman Empire at the time of Jesus. The Septuagint, a Greek translation of the Old Testament, was the primary Scripture used by the descendants of Jacob living in Judea. It contained the deuterocanonical works that aren’t included in most Protestant Bibles. Lesson 16

—H—

Haman—The eighth chapter in the Book of Esther recounts Esther’s bravery in dealing with King Ahasu-erus to resolve a threatening situation for the Jews caused by Haman the Agagite. Haman means  “tumult.” Lesson 21
Hammedatha—The eighth chapter in the Book of Esther identifies Haman the Agagite as source of potential danger to Jews under the rule of King Ahasu-erus: Haman’s father was Hammedatha. The danger from Haman was offset by Esther’s piety and courage. Hammedatha means “given by the moon.” Lesson 21
Hannah—The first chapter in the First Book of Samuel introduces Hannah as the mother of Samuel. The same chapter includes Hannah’s prayer, which contains a number of similarities to the Blessed Virgin Mary’s Magnificat recorded in the first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke. The first chapter also records other details of Samuel’s birth and that Hannah dedicated her newborn son to God. Hannah means “favor” or “grace.” Lessons 7–10
Hebrew—Hebrew can refer to a descendant of Eber or to the language spoken by those descendants. In the nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John, Hebrew refers to the language. Lessons 15–16
Hebrews—See Letter to the Hebrews.
Hittite—The twelfth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel records that Bathsheba’s husband Uriah, whom David had killed, was a Hittite. Hittite means “one who is broken.” Lesson 14
Holofernes—The gory tale of how Judith slayed Holofernes and saved her people from the Assyrians is recounted in the thirteenth chapter in the Book of Judith. Holofernes means “love’s labors lost.” Lesson 20
Holy Spirit—The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records the angel Gabriel’s announcement that the Blessed Virgin Mary was to become the mother of Jesus through the action of the Holy Spirit. The same chapter describes Elizabeth being filled with the Holy Spirit when Mary visited her. The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke describes the Holy Spirit coming upon Simeon when Simeon observed the infant Jesus being offered to God in the Temple at Jerusalem. The first chapter in Acts of the Apostles recounts the risen Jesus promising his disciples that they’ll receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them. The second chapter in Acts of the Apostles records the Holy Spirit descending on the disciples at Pentecost. Holy Spirit is the name given to the third person of the Blessed Trinity. Holy reflects the idea that God is set apart, and Spirit indicates the mysterious nature of one God in three persons. Lessons 7–8,10,18–19
Horeb—See Mount Horeb.

—I—

Isaac—Isaac was the son of Abraham and Sarah; he became the father of Jacob and Esau. Isaac also is one of the three primary patriarchs of the Hebrews, along with his father Abraham and his son Jacob. The twenty-fourth chapter in the book of Genesis describes how Isaac came to marry Rebekah. Isaac means “he who laughs.” Lesson 5
Isaiah—Isaiah is an umbrella term that refers to the author or authors of the Old Testament Book of Isaiah. Scholars speculate that the Book of Isaiah probably was written over a period of about 200 years by three different people who shared similar prophetic viewpoints. The third chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew records Jesus’ cousin John quoting from the section of the Book of Isaiah that scholars speculate was written by Deutero- (Second) Isaiah. Isaiah means “salvation of the LORD.” Also see Book of Isaiah. Lesson 22
Israel—The term Israel has a variety of meanings but always relates to the patriarch Jacob. (The thirty-second chapter in the book of Genesis describes Jacob’s battle with a mysterious stranger, who changed Jacob’s name to Israel. The thirty-fifth chapter in the book of Genesis describes God reinforcing the name change.) In the fourteenth chapter in the book of Exodus, the Egyptians flee from the departing Hebrews in fear the God of Israel. In the twelfth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel, house of Israel refers only to the tribes that will go on to make up the northern kingdom of Israel; this includes all of the tribes except Judah and Benjamin. In the fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel and in Psalm 22, however, Israel refers to all of David’s subjects in all 12 tribes. The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records the Blessed Virgin Mary referring to all of the descendants of Jacob as Israel. In the second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke, Israel indicates that God considers all descendants of Jacob to be in covenant with him. In the forty-sixth chapter in the book of Genesis, Israel is another name for Jacob. The first chapter in Acts of the Apostles describes the disciples displaying excessive interest about when Jesus plans to restore the kingdom of Israel; it is uncertain whether they’re thinking about the former kingdom of Judah, the former kingdom of Israel, or the united kingdom of Israel—though throughout the Gospels Jesus expresses interest in all descendants of Judah. Israel means “may God prevail” or “he who struggles with God.” Lessons 6,8,12,14,16,18,22
Ittai—The fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel describes Ittai as a Gittite who refused to abandon David during the uprising led by Absalom. Ittai means “the LORD is with me.” Lesson 12  

—J—

Jacob—The Old Testament frequently refers to the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and their covenant with God. The son of Isaac, Jacob was renamed Israel by God, and he in turn became the father of 12 sons whose descendants make up the 12 tribes of Israel. Jacob’s fraternal twin brother Esau settled in Edom, a region south of the Dead Sea. Before Esau settled in Edom, the area was called Seir; later it became known as Idumea or Idumaea. The thirty-second chapter in the book of Genesis describes Jacob’s battle with a mysterious stranger, who changed Jacob’s name to Israel. The thirty-fifth chapter in the book of Genesis describes God reinforcing the name change. The forty-sixth chapter in the book of Genesis records that 70 of Jacob’s immediate descendants moved to Egypt to escape a severe famine. Jacob means “supplanter”; Israel means “may God prevail” or “he who struggles with God.” Lessons 6–7
James—The ninth chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records that James was one of three disciples who witnessed Jesus’ Transfiguration. James means “grabs the heel.” Lesson 25
Jerusalem—Originally a Jebusite stronghold, Jerusalem was conquered by David, who made it his capital city. It was located in territory settled by the tribe of Judah. After the united kingdom split, Jerusalem continued as capital of the southern kingdom. The fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel describes David fleeing Jerusalem to escape from his son Absalom’s attempts to usurp the throne. Jerusalem also was the site of the Temple; the second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records that Jesus’ parents took him there as a baby to present him to God, and again later to attend Passover celebrations. The third chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew records that many of the people Jesus’ cousin John was baptizing were from Jerusalem. In the ninth chapter in the Gospel According to Luke, Elijah and Moses appear at Jesus’ Transfiguration, discussing what Jesus was going to accomplish in Jerusalem. The first chapter in Acts of the Apostles describes the risen Jesus tasking his disciples with being his witnesses to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth. The second chapter in Acts of the Apostles records Peter addressing his remarks to men living in Judea and Jerusalem. Jerusalem means “city of peace.” Lessons 10–12,18–19,22,25
Jesus—Throughout the New Testament, Christians recognize Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah—although the promised eternal kingdom turns out not to be quite what God’s people were expecting. The sixth chapter in the Letter to the Hebrews refers to Jesus as a forerunner who entered heaven in advance of worthy men and women. The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records the Blessed Virgin Mary being instructed to name her son Jesus. The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records details of the boy Jesus in the Temple at Jerusalem. The third chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew records Jesus seeking out his cousin John in order to be baptized. The second chapter in the Gospel According to John describes Jesus performing his first sign at Cana in Galilee. The fourteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John records Jesus’ words concerning preparing a place for his disciples. The eighteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John records details of Jesus’ conversation with Pilate. The nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John describes Pilate’s unsuccessful attempt to avoid condemning Jesus to be crucified, and also describes Jesus’ actual Crucifixion. The twenty-sixth chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew describes Jesus’ institution of the Eucharist and also records Jesus’ agony in the Garden of Gethsemane. In the sixteenth chapter in the Gospel According to Mark, a mysterious young man tells the disciples that Jesus has risen from his tomb. The first chapter in Acts of the Apostles describes the risen Jesus tasking his disciples with being his witnesses to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth. Jesus is a name derived from Jeshua or Joshua; it means “God saves” or “God delivers.” Immanuel is a transliteration of Hebrew that means “God with us.” “Emmanuel” means the same thing in Greek. Lessons 5,7,11–18,20,22–23,26
Jew/Jewish—The eighth chapter in the Book of Esther recounts Esther’s bravery in dealing with King Ahasu-erus to resolve a threatening situation for the Jews. The second chapter in the Gospel According to John records that the water Jesus changed into wine at the wedding at Cana originally was intended to be used for Jewish purification rites. In the eighteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John, Pilate asks two questions that indicate preoccupation with his Jewish subjects: 1) Pilate seeks to learn whether Jesus is King of the Jews, and 2) Pilate also asks if he is himself a Jew. The nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John records the Jews forcing Pilate’s hand by bringing up his friendship with Caesar. Jew means “a practitioner of the religion of Judaism,” a faith based on Hebrew worship practices. It developed around the time of the Babylonian Exile from 597–538 B.C. A descendant of Judah is called a Judahite and not a Jew. Lessons 13–16,21,23
Joel—The second chapter in Acts of the Apostles records that in his first public address, Peter cited the Old Testament prophet Joel, whose name means “Yahweh is God.” Lesson 19
John/John the Baptist—The third chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew records that Jesus’ cousin John was baptizing people in the Jordan River. The ninth chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records that another person identified as John was one of three disciples who witnessed Jesus’ Transfiguration. It’s significant that Jesus’ cousin’s role in baptizing people is downplayed in the Fourth Gospel. Also see Gospel According to John. Lesson 22–25
Jonathan—Jonathan was the son of the priest Abiathar. The fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel records David asking Zadok to return to Jerusalem with Jonathan, Abiathar, and Zadok’s own son Ahima-az. Jonathan means “God has given.” Lesson 15
Jordan River—The second chapter in the Second Book of the Kings describes Elijah’s disappearance in a chariot of fire after he and Elisha crossed the Jordan River. The third chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew records that Jesus’ cousin John was baptizing people in the Jordan River. Crossing the Jordan frequently is symbolic of moving into the Promised Land of heaven. Jordan means “go down” or “descending.” Lessons 18,22
Joseph—Joseph was the eleventh of Jacob’s 12 sons; his mother was Jacob’s favorite wife Rachel. The births of Joseph’s 11 brothers are recorded in the twenty-ninth through thirtieth chapters and the thirty-fifth chapter in the book of Genesis. The forty-sixth chapter in the book of Genesis records that Joseph (the son of Jacob) had two Egyptian-born children. In the first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke, another man identified as Joseph is the Blessed Virgin Mary’s intended husband. The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records that Joseph (Mary’s husband) traveled to Bethlehem with Mary to be enrolled in a tax census. The name Joseph means “may the LORD add increase.” Lessons 6–7,9
Judah—Judah was the fourth son of Jacob. The forty-sixth chapter in the book of Genesis describes Jacob sending Judah ahead to meet Joseph in Goshen. Judah also can refer to the geographical territory allotted to the tribe of Judah at the time the Israelites settled in the land of Canaan. The twelfth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel describes Nathan, speaking for God, saying that it was God who gave David control over the houses of Israel and Judah. The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke indicates that the Blessed Virgin Mary’s cousin Elizabeth and her husband Zechariah lived in hill country of Judah. Judah means “praise.” Lessons 6,8,14
Judea—The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke locates Nazareth in Judea, the area in the land of Canaan settled by some of the descendants of Jacob. The third chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew identifies the wilderness where Jesus’ cousin John was baptizing as Judea. The first chapter in Acts of the Apostles describes the risen Jesus tasking his disciples with being his witnesses to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth. The second chapter in Acts of the Apostles records Peter addressing his remarks to men living in Judea and Jerusalem. Judea is the Hellenized version of Judah, the name of the fourth son of Jacob. It sometimes is spelled Judaea, which is the Philistine version of Judah. Lesson 9,18–19,22
Judith—The gory tale of how Judith saved her people is recounted in the thirteenth chapter in the Book of Judith. Judith means “praised.” Also see Book of Judith. Lesson 20

—K—

Kidron—Kidron refers to a brook and valley near Jerusalem in territory allotted by God to the tribe of Judah. The fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel records that David crossed the Kidron when fleeing from his son Absalom. Kidron means “torrent.” Lesson 12
King—The sixth chapter in the Book of Isaiah records the prophet known as Proto-Isaiah bemoaning that he’s seen the King, the LORD of hosts; Proto-Isaiah is referring to God as King over all. The nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John records Pilate is using the word King deliberately to cast doubt on whether Jesus actually is King of the Jews. Lessons 15,19
King of the Jews—The eighteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John records Pilate asking whether Jesus is King of the Jews. The nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John records the soldiers mocking Jesus by referring to him as King of Jews. The same chapter describes Pilate having a sign placed on Jesus’ cross identifying Jesus as King of the Jews. Lessons 13–14,16
Kings—See Second Book of the Kings.

—L—

Laban—The twenty-fourth chapter in the book of Genesis identifies Laban as the brother of Rebekah, who becomes Isaac’s wife. Laban means “white.” Lessons 5
land of Egypt—See Egypt.
Latin—In the nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John, Latin refers to the language of Rome at the time of Jesus. Lesson 16
Letter to the Hebrews—Although the Letter to the Hebrews once was thought to have been written by Paul, scholars no longer hold that view; the author now is considered to be unknown. It is of interest that the title of this book addresses Christians of Hebrew descent rather than Christian converts from Judaism. Lesson 5
Levites—Levites descended from Moses’ brother Aaron were consecrated as priests while the remaining Levites performed religious service in support of the priesthood; Moses, also a Levite, is regarded as a prophet—a role superior to that of any priest. The fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel records that a number of Levites attempted to accompany David when David fled Jerusalem. Levi means “united” or “joined in harmony.” Lesson 15
Lord of hosts—Used throughout Scripture, the title Lord of hosts draws attention to God’s power over everything in heaven and on the earth. Lessons 7,19
Lord’s Christ. See Christ.
Luke—See Gospel According to Luke.

—M—

Mark—See Gospel According to Mark.
Mary—The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke identifies the Blessed Virgin Mary as the mother of Jesus. The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records that Mary gave birth to Jesus at Bethlehem, and that she and Joseph took Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem to present the baby to God. Although the nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John doesn’t mention Mary by name, it does indicate that Jesus’ Mother was present at his Crucifixion. Mary means “bitterness” or “beloved.” Lessons 7–10,16
Mary Magdalene—The nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John identifies Mary Magdalene as one of the women who witnessed Jesus’ Crucifixion. The sixteenth chapter in the Gospel According to Mark identifies her as one of the women who went to Jesus’ tomb to anoint his body. Mary means “bitterness” or “beloved”; Magdalene means “woman from Magdala.” Lessons 16–17
Mary the mother of James—The sixteenth chapter in the Gospel According to Mark identifies Mary the mother of James as one of the women who went to Jesus’ tomb to anoint his body. Mary means “bitterness” or “beloved”; James means “grabs the heel.” Lesson 17
Massah—Scholars are uncertain about the exact location of Massah and Meribah—and about whether the term represents one place or two. The seventeenth chapter in the book of Exodus records that Moses gave the two names to a location near Mount Horeb where the Israelites complained about not having water to drink. Massah means “testing” and Meribah means “quarreling.” Lesson 23
Master—In the ninth chapter in the Gospel According to Luke, Peter refers to Jesus as Master, a human title of respect that indicates authority over others or possession of a special talent or skill. Lesson 25
Matthew—See Gospel According to Matthew.
Melchizedek—The sixth chapter in the Letter to the Hebrews identifies Jesus as a priest after the order of Melchizedek. Because of this connection to the priesthood of Jesus and because there’s no suggestion in Scripture of Melchizedek being born or dying, speculation has arisen around Melchizedek. The Church doesn’t endorse any ideas that aren’t supported by biblical text. Melchizedek means “my king is righteousness.” Lesson 5
Meribah—Scholars are uncertain about the exact location of Massah and Meribah—and about whether the term represents one place or two. The seventeenth chapter in the book of Exodus records that Moses gave the two names to a location near Mount Horeb where the Israelites complained about not having water to drink. Massah means “testing” and Meribah means “quarreling.” Lesson 23
Meshach—The third chapter in the Book of Daniel identifies Meshach as one of the three young men consigned to the fiery furnace. Meshach means “guest of a king.” Lesson 17
Mordecai—The eighth chapter in the Book of Esther includes a mention of Mordecai, who counseled Esther about how to resolve a serious threat to the Jews. Mordecai means “contrition.” Lesson 21
Moses—Moses and his brother Aaron were descendants of Jacob’s third son Levi. Only the descendants of Aaron were chosen by God to be priests. Moses’ relationship with God was that of a prophet—a role superior to that of any priest. The fourteenth chapter in the book of Exodus records details of Moses’ parting of the Red Sea. The sixteenth chapter in the book of Exodus describes the Israelites in the wilderness murmuring against Aaron and Moses because there was no food; God responded by sending manna. In the seventeenth chapter in the book of Exodus, Moses strikes the rock at Mount Horeb to provide water for the people. The twentieth chapter in the book of Exodus records the Israelites asking Moses to mediate for them with God. The thirty-fourth chapter in the book of Exodus describes Moses’ face shining after meeting with God. The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke refers to the Blessed Virgin Mary and Joseph presenting the baby Jesus to God at the Temple in Jerusalem in accordance with the law of Moses. The ninth chapter in the Gospel According to Luke describes Moses appearing with the prophet Elijah at Jesus’ Transfiguration. Moses means “to draw out of water.” Lessons 10,22–26
Most High/Most High God—The thirteenth chapter in the Book of Judith records Uzziah calling upon the Most High God to bless Judith for her piety and courage in saving her people from the Assyrians. In the first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke, the angel Gabriel refers to God as the Most High, a title that indicates God’s holiness. Lessons 7,20
Mount Horeb—The location of Mount Horeb, described in Scripture as the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments, is debated by scholars; traditionally it has been thought to be synonymous with Mount Sinai, a peak at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula. The seventeenth chapter in the book of Exodus describes Moses striking the rock at Mount Horeb to provide water for the people. Horeb means “dry place” or “glowing heat.” Lesson 23
Mount of Olives—The Mount of Olives refers to a mountain range east of Jerusalem and adjacent to the old  city. The fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel notes that David ascended the Mount of Olives barefoot when he was fleeing from his son Absalom, who was attempting to usurp David’s throne. Lesson 15
Mount Sinai—Mount Sinai, traditionally considered to refer to a peak at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is described in the thirty-fourth chapter in the book of Exodus as the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments. Scholars debate its location and speculate that the name Sinai may have evolved from Sin, the ancient Mesopotamian deity believed to represent the Moon. Lesson 25

—N—

Nathan—The twelfth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel records the prophet Nathan chastising David for having Uriah the Hittite killed. Nathan also was the prophet God earlier chose to deliver the news to David that an eternal king was going to be born in his line. Nathan means “given.” Lesson 14
Nazareth—The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke identifies Nazareth as a town in Galilee that was the girlhood home of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It also was the town in which Jesus grew up. Jesus occasionally is referred to as Jesus of Nazareth, including in the nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John and in the sixteenth chapter in the Gospel According to Mark. Nazareth is located in a region that would have been part of the northern kingdom of Israel prior to that kingdom’s fall to Assyria in 722–721 B.C. Nazareth means “watch tower.” Lessons 7,9,11,16
Nebuchadnezzar—The third chapter in the Book of Daniel identifies Nebuchadnezzar as a king in Babylon who had the three young Hebrew men consigned to the fiery furnace. Nebuchadnezzar means “Nebo protects against misfortune.” Lesson 17
Negeb—The Negeb is an arid region in the southern part of Israel west of the Jordan River. Almost half of present-day Palestine and about 60 percent of present-day Israel are taken up by the Negeb, which sometimes is called the Negev. The twenty-fourth chapter in the book of Genesis notes that Isaac had been at Beer-lahai-roi and was staying in the Negeb when he met Rebekah. Both Negeb and Negev mean “dry land.” Lesson 5
Nile River—The Nile River is the primary waterway in Egypt; it is crucial to the survival and well-being of the Egyptians. The seventeenth chapter in the book of Exodus mentions that Moses struck the Nile as one of the 10 plagues the LORD enacted against Egypt in order to free the Israelites. Nile means “river.” Lesson 23

—O—

—P—

Passover—In the Old Testament, Passover refers to the annual feast set aside by the descendants of Jacob as a time to commemorate the original event in which the angel of death passed over their homes in Egypt that had been marked with the blood of a Paschal Lamb. The one-night feast of Passover often is confused with the feast of unleavened bread, which is a seven-day religious remembrance of God’s delivering his people from slavery in Egypt. The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records that Jesus’ parents were in the habit of celebrating the Passover in Jerusalem each year. The nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John records that Pilate had a tradition of releasing one prisoner every year at Passover, and the same chapter determines that Jesus’ Passion, death, and Resurrection occurred at the time of the Passover. Timing of these events is confusing because the synoptic Gospels and the Gospel According to John don’t perfectly match, including references to the day of Preparation for the Passover. Pope Benedict XVI addresses some of these difficulties in the second of his three-part trilogy, Jesus of Nazareth: Holy Week. Lessons 11,15–16
(The) Pavement—See Golgotha.
Pentecost—Pentecost is a Christian liturgy commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit on the early Church; this event is described in the second chapter in Acts of the Apostles. In the Old Testament, Pentecost celebrates God giving the law to Moses. Pentecost means “50.” Lesson 19
Peter—The ninth chapter in the Gospel According to Luke identifies Peter as one of three disciples present at Jesus’ Transfiguration. The sixteenth chapter in the Gospel According to Mark distinguishes Peter from the other disciples. The second chapter in Acts of the Apostles recalls Peter’s first public address after the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The twenty-sixth chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew records that Jesus took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, James and John, with him when he went to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. Peter means “rock” or “stone” in Greek; Cephas, the disciple’s name before Jesus changed it to Peter, means the same thing in Aramaic. Lessons 12,17,19,25
Pharaoh—Pharaoh was the title given to a series of ancient rulers in Egypt; it is equivalent to king. Most Pharaohs in the Bible are unnamed; the five exceptions are Shishak, So, Tirhakah, Nechoh, and Hophra, none of whom are mentioned in biblical text in Scripture & the Rosary: New Testament Mysteries, Old Testament Parallels. The fourteenth chapter in the book of Exodus describes the army of one of the unnamed Pharaohs pursuing the Israelites out of Egypt. Lesson 22
Philip—The fourteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John records Philip, one of Jesus’ disciples, asking Jesus to show him the Father. Philip means “lover of horses.” Lesson 20
Pilate—The eighteenth and nineteenth chapters in the Gospel According to John describe Pilate’s role in Jesus’ Passion, death, and Crucifixion. Pilate means “a free man.” Lessons 13–16
(day of) Preparation—See Passover.
Psalms—The Psalms in the Old Testament are classified as a wisdom book sometimes called the Psalter. Psalm 51, the Miserere, describes David’s sorrow for sin, and Psalm 22 records details of David’s prophetic vision of the crucified Jesus. Psalms means “sacred songs.” Lessons 14,16

—Q—

Quirinius—The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke identifies Quirinius as the Roman-appointed governor of Syria at the time of Jesus’ birth. Quirinius means “armed with a spear.” Lesson 9

—R—

Ramah—The first chapter in the First Book of Samuel identifies Ramah, a town a few miles north of Jerusalem, as the home of Elkanah and Hannah, the parents of Samuel. Ramah means “high” or “exalted.” Lesson 9
Rebekah—The twenty-fourth chapter in the book of Genesis describes how Rebekah became the wife of Isaac. Rebekah means “to tie firmly.” Lesson 5
Rephidim—Scholars are uncertain of the exact location of Rephidim other than that it was a place where the Israelites encamped after crossing the Red Sea. The seventeenth chapter in the book of Exodus records that there was no water at Rephidim, which means “place of rest.” Lesson 23
Revelation—See book of Revelation.

—S—

Salome—The sixteenth chapter in the Gospel According to Mark identifies Salome as one of the women who went to Jesus’ tomb to anoint his body. Salome means “peace.” Lesson 17
Samaria—The first chapter in Acts of the Apostles describes the risen Jesus tasking his disciples with being his witnesses to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth. Samaria means “watch-mountain.” Lesson 18
Samuel—The first and third chapters in the First Book of Samuel contain details about the birth and call of Samuel, a major Old Testament transitional figure with the distinction of being the last Old Testament judge before becoming the prophet who anointed Saul and David as rulers over all 12 tribes of Israel. Samuel means “God has heard.” Lesson 9–11.
Sarah—The eighteenth chapter in the book of Genesis records the appearance of three mysterious strangers who foretold that Abraham and Sarah would have a son within a year. Sarah means “princess”; her birth name Sarai means “palace.” Lesson 4
Saul—Saul was the son of Kish; Saul was chosen as the first king to rule over all of the descendants of Jacob. The sixteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel describes one of Saul’s Benjaminite kinsmen cursing David as David fled Jerusalem ahead of his son Absalom, who was trying to usurp the throne. Saul means “borrowed.” Lessons 13–14
Savior—Savior is a title that acknowledges God’s power to grant salvation. The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke refers to Jesus, the Son of God, as Savior. Lessons 8–9
Scripture—In the New Testament, Scripture refers to books of the Old Testament, including in the nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John. Lesson 16
Second Book of Samuel—The First and Second Books of Samuel are classified as historical; they cover the life of the prophet Samuel as well as the reigns of Saul and David, who ruled over the united kingdom of all 12 tribes of Israel. The twelfth, fifteenth, and sixteenth chapters in the Second Book of Samuel describe tragic situations in David’s life that are seen as parallels to Jesus’ Passion, death, and Resurrection. Samuel refers to the prophet; his name means “God has heard.” Lessons 12–15
Second Book of the Kings—The Old Testament Second Book of the Kings is classified as historical; these two books present events from the perspectives of the southern kingdom of Judah and the northern kingdom of Israel before the fall of each. In contrast, the First and Second Books of the Chronicles present events that occurred during the same time period, but the only perspective is that of the southern kingdom of Judah. Kings refers to the rulers in the southern and northern kingdoms. The second chapter in the Second Book of the Kings describes Elisha witnessing Elijah being taken to up in a chariot of fire. Lesson 18
Shadrach—The third chapter in the Book of Daniel identifies Shadrach as one of the three young men consigned to the fiery furnace. Shadrach means “command of Aku” and is associated with the Babylonian god of the moon. Lesson 17
Sheol—Sheol, mentioned in the second chapter in the First Book of Samuel, represents the Hebrew abode of the dead. Before Jesus, all souls—regardless of their actions while alive—were consigned to Sheol after death. Sheol means “abode of the dead.” Lesson 8
Shiloh—Shiloh is a city in territory allotted by God to the tribe of Ephraim; present-day Shiloh is about nineteen miles north of Jerusalem. It was a primary center of worship before David made Jerusalem his capital city. The first chapter in the First Book of Samuel identifies Shiloh as the city where Hannah was told that she was to give birth to a son. The same chapter names Shiloh as the location where Hannah left her son Samuel in the care of the priest Eli. Samuel’s call by God, described in the third chapter in the First Book of Samuel, occurred at Shiloh when Samuel was resting by the ark of the covenant in the temple of the LORD. Shiloh means “peaceful one.” Lessons 7,10
Shime-i—The sixteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel records that Shime-i, a Benjaminite and son of Gera, cursed David when David was fleeing from Absalom, who was attempting to usurp the throne. Shime-i means “who hears” or “my reputation.” Lesson 13
Simeon—In the Old Testament, Simeon refers to the second of Jacob’s 12 sons. The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke refers to a different Simeon as a devout man in the Temple at Jerusalem at the time Jesus’ parents took him there to be presented to God. Simeon means “God is listening.” Lesson 10
Sin—See wilderness of Sin.
Sinai—See Mount Sinai.
Spirit/Spirit of God—The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records that Simeon was inspired by the Spirit to bless God when the Blessed Virgin Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the Temple at Jerusalem. The second chapter in Acts of the Apostles records that at the first Christian Pentecost, the Spirit allowed people of different languages to understand what each was saying. The third chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew describes the Spirit of God descending like a dove on Jesus at his baptism. Spirit, Spirit of God, and Holy Spirit are synonymous in Scripture. They all refer to the third person of the Blessed Trinity. Lessons 10,19,22
Son—In the third chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew, the Spirit of God identifies Jesus as God’s Son. The ninth chapter in the Gospel According to Luke also records God claiming a paternal relationship to Jesus at the Transfiguration. When Son is capitalized in the New Testament, it refers to Jesus and emphasizes his divine nature. Lesson 22,25
Son of God—Son of God is a title for Jesus that focuses on his divinity. When capitalized in the Old Testament, Son refers to the Messiah. When capitalized in the New Testament, it refers to Jesus, who’s considered by Christians to be the Son of God as well as the Messiah of Old Testament prophecy. The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke records the angel Gabriel announcing that the Blessed Virgin Mary was to become the mother of the Son of God. The nineteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John records the Jews telling Pilate they oppose Jesus because Jesus made himself the Son of God. Lessons 7,14
Son of man—Son of man is a title for Jesus that focuses on his humanity. Son is capitalized to distinguish it from scriptural references to son of man, which refer to ordinary human beings. Jesus identifies himself as the Son of man in the twenty-sixth chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew and in the ninth chapter in the Gospel According to Luke. Lessons 12,25
Son of the Most High—In the first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke, the angel Gabriel announces that Jesus will be Son of the Most High, a title that clearly marks Jesus as the son of God. Lesson 7
sons of Israel—The term sons of Israel refers to descendants of the 12 sons of the patriarch Jacob. (The thirty-second chapter in the book of Genesis describes Jacob’s battle with a mysterious stranger, who changed Jacob’s name to Israel. The thirty-fifth chapter in the book of Genesis describes God reinforcing the name change.) Sons of Israel also are called Israelites or tribes of Israel. The term sons of Israel is used in the fourteenth through thirty-fourth chapters in the book of Exodus. Israel means “may God prevail” or “he who struggles with God.” Lessons 22–23,25–26
sons of Zebedee—The twenty-sixth chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew records that Jesus took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, James and John, with him when he went to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. James and John also are called sons of thunder. Lesson 12
Syria—The ancient kingdom of Syria was named after a king called Cyrus who ruled in about 1500 B.C. It encompassed present-day Syria, and isn’t to be confused with Assyria. The former kingdoms of Assyria and Syria originally were unrelated, although their founders, Asshur and Aram, were brothers and grandsons of Noah in the line of Shem. The Assyrians conquered Aram, the original name of Syria, shortly before conquering the northern kingdom of Israel; the Babylonians eventually conquered Assyria. At that time both Assyria and the remnant of Aram ceased to exist. The second chapter in the Gospel According to Luke notes that Quirinius was governor of Syria at the time Jesus was born. Syria means “happiness.” Lesson 9

—T—

Thomas—The fourteenth chapter in the Gospel According to John records Thomas, one of Jesus’ disciples, expressing concern over not being able to accompany Jesus to the place where Jesus is going. Thomas means “twin.” Lesson 20
Trinity—Although the word Trinity never appears in Scripture, the three mysterious men who appear to Abraham and Sarah in the eighteenth chapter in the book of Genesis often are referred to as the Old Testament Trinity. Lesson 4

—U—

Uriah—The twelfth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel identifies Uriah the Hittite as the first husband of Bathsheba and one of David’s mighty men. After David began an affair with Uriah’s wife, David arranged to have Uriah killed. Uriah means “my light is God.” Lesson 14
Uzziah—The gory tale of how Judith slayed Holofernes and saved her people from the Assyrians is recounted in the thirteenth chapter in the Book of Judith. Uzziah was a magistrate and a eunuch. He isn’t to be confused with the ruler of the southern kingdom of Judah identified as Azariah and sometimes called Uzziah. Uzziah means “the LORD is my strength and my power.” Lesson 20

—V—

—W—

wilderness of Sin—The wilderness of Sin refers to a geographic area located between Elim and Mount Sinai on the Sinai Peninsula. The seventeenth chapter in the book of Exodus records that the Israelites moved from the wilderness of Sin in stages. Sin was the name of an ancient Mesopotamian deity believed to represent the moon. Lesson 23

—X—

—Y—

—Z—

Zadok—The fifteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel records that Zadok, a member of the priestly clan of Eli, gathered Levitical priests and the ark of the covenant of God in order to accompany David, who was fleeing Jerusalem ahead of Absalom. Zadok was the father of Ahima-az. David instructed Zadok to return to Jerusalem with Ahima-az and the ark, as well as with the priest Abiathar and Abiathar’s son Jonathan. Zadok means “righteous.” Lesson 15
Zebedee—The twenty-sixth chapter in the Gospel According to Matthew records that Jesus took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee—James and John—with him when he went to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. Zebedee means “gift of God.” Lesson 12
Zechariah—The first chapter in the Gospel According to Luke identifies Zechariah as the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s cousin Elizabeth and the father of Jesus’ cousin John. John is called “the Baptist” in the synoptic Gospels According to Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Zechariah, identified as a priest in the line of Aaron, isn’t to be confused with the Old Testament prophet of the same name. Zechariah means “God remembers.” Lesson 8
Zeruiah—The sixteenth chapter in the Second Book of Samuel identifies Abishai’s mother as David’s sister Zeruiah. Zeruiah also was mother of Joab and Asahel. Zeruiah means “tribulation.” Lesson 13