What is the Book of Life — Meaning Explained
The Book of Life is God's record of those who will inherit eternal life, mentioned throughout Scripture as the heavenly register of the redeemed.
The Book of Life is God's record of those who will inherit eternal life, mentioned throughout Scripture as the heavenly register of the redeemed.
"And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire." — Revelation 20:15 (KJV)
What "What is the Book of Life?" Actually Means
The Book of Life appears in both the Old and New Testaments as a divine register. Moses references it when interceding for Israel, and the Psalms mention being written or blotted from the book. In Revelation, it becomes central to the final judgment — those whose names are not found in the Book of Life are cast into the lake of fire. Jesus told His disciples to rejoice that their names were written in heaven. Theologians debate whether names can be removed once written, but all agree the Book represents God's sovereign knowledge of His redeemed people.
Anchor Verses (KJV)
Revelation 20:15
"And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire."
Philippians 4:3
"And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel... whose names are in the book of life."
Luke 10:20
"Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven."
Explore this question from another angle
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
What Does the Bible Say About Eternal Life?
Theology & Doctrine
What Is the Tree of Life?
Theology & Doctrine
What Is the Purpose of Life According to the Bible?
Theology & Doctrine
Acts 2:42 — Meaning & Devotional
Church Life
Acts 2:42 Commentary
In-depth study • Early Church Life
Bible Verses About Eternal Life
10 curated KJV verses
Keep Going
Continue Exploring Scripture
You've found one resource — here are more ways to go deeper into God's Word.
Today's Verse
Start each day with a hand-picked KJV verse and reflection.
Verses by Topic
Find what the Bible says about love, anxiety, strength, and 500+ more topics.
Bible Miracles
Discover the signs and wonders of God recorded in Scripture.
Angels & Spiritual Warfare
Angels, demons, and the armor of God — what the KJV really teaches about the unseen battle.
Bible Genealogies & Family Trees
Visual KJV family trees — the line of Jesus, the sons of Noah, the twelve tribes, and more.
Women of the Bible
Eve, Sarah, Ruth, Esther, Mary — the matriarchs, prophetesses, queens, and disciples of Scripture.