Faith in the Bible
The Bible's vocabulary for faith is richer than the single English word suggests. In the Old Testament it is firmness, faithfulness, and steady trust; in the New Testament it is the settled confidence that takes God at His word. This study traces the Greek and Hebrew terms behind every KJV verse on faith.
Greek & Hebrew words
Greek (New Testament)
Key KJV verses
All verses →Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”Read in context
Ephesians 2:8
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.”Read in context
Faith in the Old Testament
Hebrew emunah (H530) and the verb aman (H539) describe something that is steady, reliable, and trustworthy. The same root gives us the word 'amen.' Old Testament faith is less an abstract belief and more a covenant loyalty — God is faithful, and His people respond by trusting His promises.
Faith in the New Testament
Greek pistis (G4102) carries the ideas of trust, conviction, and faithfulness. In Paul's epistles it becomes the channel through which grace is received (Ephesians 2:8). In Hebrews 11 it is defined as confident assurance and demonstrated by obedience.
Faith and works
James 2 does not contradict Paul. Paul speaks of the root that justifies; James of the fruit that proves the root is alive. The same Greek word pistis is used in both — genuine faith inevitably produces works.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Greek word for faith in the Bible?
The Greek word is pistis (πίστις, Strong's G4102). It means trust, conviction, and the act of relying on God.
What is the Hebrew word for faith?
The main Hebrew word is emunah (אֱמוּנָה, Strong's H530), meaning firmness or faithfulness. The verbal root is aman (H539), the same root that gives us 'amen.'
How does the Bible define faith?
Hebrews 11:1 says, 'Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.' It is settled confidence in God's character and promises.