5 Common Sayings You May Not Know Come From The Bible
Many common sayings and phrases people use in daily conversations have origins in the Bible, even if they don’t realize it. Over time, these expressions have been adopted into different languages and cultures, often without a direct connection to their biblical roots. Here are five common sayings that come from the Bible.......➡️CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLES HERE.
1. “By the Skin of Your Teeth”
This phrase means to escape a difficult situation by a very narrow margin. It comes from Job 19:20, where Job describes his suffering and how he barely survived his hardships:
“I am nothing but skin and bones; I have escaped only by the skin of my teeth.”
The imagery suggests an extremely close call, which is how the phrase is commonly used today.
2. “A Thorn in the Flesh”
This saying refers to an ongoing problem or struggle that causes discomfort but cannot be easily removed. It originates from 2 Corinthians 12:7, where the Apostle Paul talks about a challenge he faces:
“Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.”
Today, people use this phrase to describe persistent difficulties in life, whether it’s a health issue, a difficult person, or an unresolved problem.
3. “A House Divided Cannot Stand”
This phrase is used to warn that internal conflict can lead to failure. It comes from Mark 3:25, where Jesus says:
“If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.”
The phrase gained political significance when Abraham Lincoln used it in a famous speech about slavery, emphasizing that a nation divided could not survive.
4. “By Their Fruits You Shall Know Them”
This saying means that people’s true character is revealed by their actions, not just their words. It comes from Matthew 7:16, where Jesus says:
“By their fruit, you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?”
The idea is that good people produce good deeds, just as a healthy tree produces good fruit.
5. “Go the Extra Mile”
This phrase means to put in extra effort beyond what is expected. It comes from Matthew 5:41, where Jesus teaches:
“If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.”
In Roman times, soldiers could force civilians to carry their gear for one mile. Jesus encouraged people to go beyond what was required, demonstrating kindness and humility.
Conclusion
These sayings have been passed down for centuries and are still used today, often without people realizing their biblical origins. Understanding where they come from adds depth to their meaning and highlights the lasting influence of the Bible on language and culture