Repentance in the Bible
Repentance is not merely feeling sorry; it is a turning. The Hebrew word pictures a 180-degree turn back to God; the Greek word pictures a change of mind that reshapes the life. Every KJV call to repent assumes both.
Greek & Hebrew words
Greek (New Testament)
Key KJV verses
All verses →2 Corinthians 7:10
“For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.”Read in context
Isaiah 55:7
“Let the wicked forsake his way... and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him.”Read in context
Shuv: the prophets' word
Hebrew shuv (H7725) is a turn of the whole person — feet, heart, and direction. The prophets did not call Israel to feelings but to a U-turn back to covenant fidelity.
Metanoia: a renewed mind
Greek metanoia (G3341) is a change of mind so deep it changes the life. It is not penance but the gift of a re-directed heart (2 Timothy 2:25).
Sorrow that saves
Paul distinguishes godly sorrow from worldly remorse (2 Corinthians 7:10). Only the first leads to repentance unto life.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Greek word for repentance?
Metanoia (G3341) — a change of mind that turns a person from sin to God.
What is the Hebrew word for repentance?
Shuv (H7725), meaning to turn or return — used over a thousand times in the Old Testament.
Is repentance required for salvation?
Yes. Jesus' first sermon was 'Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand' (Matthew 4:17), and Peter said, 'Repent, and be baptized every one of you' (Acts 2:38).