Canon
κανών (kanōn)
A rule or standard — the authoritative list of books in the Bible.
Kanōn originally meant 'reed' or 'measuring rod' and came to signify the rule or standard by which the books of Scripture were recognized as divinely inspired and authoritative.
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." — 2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV)
Key Verses
2 Timothy 3:16
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”Read in context
2 Peter 1:21
“For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”Read in context
Galatians 6:16
“And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.”Read in context
Etymology and Origin
Kanōn comes from a Semitic root meaning 'reed' — a straight stalk used as a measuring stick. It evolved to mean 'rule,' 'standard,' or 'norm.' Applied to Scripture, it designates the collection of books recognized as divinely inspired and authoritative for faith and practice.
Theological Significance
The canon represents the church's recognition (not creation) of which books bore the marks of divine inspiration. The Old Testament canon was largely settled by Jesus' time. The New Testament canon developed over centuries, with criteria including apostolic authorship or connection, consistency with apostolic teaching, and widespread acceptance among churches.
Practical Application
Understanding the canon gives believers confidence that the Bible they hold is trustworthy and complete. It also encourages careful study — these books were preserved through tremendous effort because the church recognized God's voice in them. The canon is both a gift and a responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biblical canon?
The biblical canon is the authoritative collection of books recognized as divinely inspired Scripture — 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament for Protestant Christians.
Who decided which books are in the Bible?
The church did not create the canon but recognized which books bore the marks of divine inspiration through apostolic connection, doctrinal consistency, and widespread acceptance over several centuries.
What does "Canon" mean in the Bible?
A rule or standard — the authoritative list of books in the Bible. The underlying Greek word is κανών (kanōn) ("kah-NOHN"). Kanōn originally meant 'reed' or 'measuring rod' and came to signify the rule or standard by which the books of Scripture were recognized as divinely inspired and authoritative.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Canon"?
2 Timothy 3:16 — "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (KJV). It also appears in 2 Peter 1:21, Galatians 6:16.
Related Words
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Canon (κανών (kanōn))
A rule or standard — the authoritative list of books in the Bible.
Biblical Meaning of Keys in a Dream (KJV)
Authority, access, and open or shut doors.
2 Timothy 3:16 Commentary
In-depth study • Biblical Authority
Biblical Meaning of Demons in a Dream (KJV)
Spiritual attack; call to prayer, repentance, and the armour of God.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 Commentary
In-depth study • Scripture's Authority
Authority (ἐξουσία (exousia))
Delegated power and rightful authority — the right to act with divine backing.
Where to go next
Studied the meaning of Canon? Continue with these word-study and Scripture pages.
- Bible word meanings A–ZHebrew and Greek words explained in plain English.Continue
- Go deeper with word studiesStrong's numbers, usage and every KJV occurrence.Continue
- Bible questions answered from ScriptureStraight KJV answers to common questions.Continue
- Read the KJV Bible online freeFull text, chapter by chapter.Continue