CategoryBackground / Biblical Canon Term
Modern EquivalentHebrew Scriptures; first major division of the Christian Bible.
KJV Word TypeBiblical canon term / covenant term
DefinitionThe first part of the Christian Bible, consisting of 39 books in Protestant Bibles and including the Hebrew Scriptures, written primarily in Hebrew with some Aramaic.
Key Verses"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); "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope." (Romans 15:4)
KJV Usage NoteThe phrase “old testament” can refer to the Hebrew Scriptures or, in covenant language, the former covenant arrangement.
Common MisunderstandingIt can refer to the Hebrew Scriptures or the former covenant; context determines whether canon or covenant is meant.
EtymologyFrom Latin vetus testamentum ("old covenant").