Word studies are a good way to gain a deeper understanding of Scripture. By looking at a particular word in its original context(s) and language, one can see the various nuances and meaning that aren't necessarily apparent in a given English translation. In the Stamps Theological Library, there are specific tools to use for word studies.
(from the Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament)
Many of the print resources (dictionaries, wordbooks, etc.) that are used for word studies are arranged alphabetically by either Hebrew or Greek, which obviously is only useful to those who have studied those languages. However, there are resources that are arranged alphabetically by English words (or contain English glossaries), by transliterated words, and/or by numbering systems. There are two major numbering systems currently in use: 1) Strong's numbers, and 2) G/K numbers ('G/K' stands for the two creators of this system, E.W. Goodrick / J.R. Kohlenberger). When used in coordination with concordances, in-depth word studies are possible for those who haven't studied Biblical languages.
This guide will take you through a three-step process for studying Hebrew and/or Greek words. When you're ready to move on to the next step, simply click the next tab (the tabs are near the top of this guide).
The librarians at the Stamps Theological Library aim to monitor this Stamps chat service a minimum of 30 hours per week (Monday - Friday; see our research help hours for details). If we are not available via chat, you will see a link to submit your question to us so that we can follow up with you via email.
If you'd like to have this guide handy while you're in Stamps Library, you can either print this guide (by clicking on the 'Print Guide' link at the top of the guide), or you can print the PDF file below.