For those new to in-depth Bible study, terms like “Strong’s Concordance” might sound intimidating. However, this remarkable resource is one of the most accessible and powerful tools available for unlocking the original meanings behind the English translations of scripture. Far from being an academic relic, Strong’s Concordance serves as an invaluable guide for anyone seeking a richer, more nuanced understanding of God’s Word. This beginner’s explainer will introduce you to what Strong’s Concordance is, how it works, and why it remains a foundational asset for serious Bible students.

What Exactly is Strong’s Concordance?

At its heart, Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, compiled by James Strong in 1890, is an index. But it’s no ordinary index. It lists every single word in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, in alphabetical order, and provides every instance where that word appears. This alone is incredibly useful for cross-referencing and thematic study.

However, the true genius of Strong’s lies in its numbering system. Adjacent to each English word, you’ll find a corresponding number – either a Hebrew number for Old Testament words or a Greek number for New Testament words. These “Strong’s numbers” link back to a lexicon (dictionary) within the concordance, which provides:

  • The original Hebrew or Greek word.
  • A phonetic transliteration (how to pronounce it).
  • A concise definition of the word in its original language.
  • Information about its grammatical form and usage.

This system allows even those with no knowledge of Hebrew or Greek to look up the underlying original word and its range of meanings. For example, if you look up the word “love” in an English Bible, Strong’s will help you differentiate between the various Greek words translated as “love,” such as agape (unconditional love) or phileo (brotherly affection), which carry distinct theological implications. This provides a depth of understanding that a mere English dictionary cannot offer.

How to Use Strong’s Concordance for Deeper Study

Using Strong’s Concordance is relatively straightforward, even for a beginner. Here’s a basic guide:

  1. Locate Your English Word: Find the English word you’re interested in studying in the main alphabetical listing.
  2. Identify the Strong’s Number: Next to the word, you’ll see the chapter and verse reference, followed by a small superscript number (e.g., G26 for Greek or H100 for Hebrew). This is your Strong’s number.
  3. Cross-Reference in the Lexicon: Turn to the Hebrew or Greek lexicon section (usually at the back of the book or a separate section in digital versions) and find the corresponding number.
  4. Explore the Original Meaning: Here, you will find the original word, its pronunciation, definition, and often a list of other ways it is translated in the KJV.

This process allows you to move beyond the surface-level English translation to explore the richer tapestry of the original biblical languages. For instance, consider the word “righteousness.” In English, it has a generally understood meaning. But looking it up in Strong’s might reveal the Hebrew word tsedeq, which carries connotations of justice, conformity to God’s standard, and ethical behavior (e.g., Psalm 23:3, where God “leads me in paths of righteousness”). This deeper insight enriches your comprehension of passages like Romans 3:22, which speaks of “the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe.”

Strong’s Concordance also helps in understanding word families and recurring themes. By tracing a specific Hebrew or Greek word through various passages, you can gain a comprehensive view of its theological significance throughout scripture. It’s a tool that empowers diligent students to become more discerning readers of the Bible, moving them closer to the original message intended by the biblical authors. Read more about biblical hermeneutics. Embracing Strong’s Concordance is a significant step towards truly owning your Bible study journey.