Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Blood”
The biblical word “Blood” traces back to Hebrew / Greek (dam (Hebrew), haima (Greek)), where it meant “Life-force or covenant-seal in ritual and sacrifice”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “Vital fluid in body; metaphorically, kinship or sacrifice”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Hebrew / Greekdam (Hebrew), haima (Greek)Life-force or covenant-seal in ritual and sacrifice
Hebrew dam (דם, H1818) refers to shed blood signifying death or covenant (Genesis 9:4). Greek haima (αἷμα) carries ceremonial weight in sacrificial language (1 Corinthians 11:25).
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinsanguisThe precious fluid shed by Christ for atonement and the new covenant
Latin sanguis. Medieval theology emphasized Christ's blood as the cornerstone of redemption and the Eucharistic sacrifice.
Modern English
EnglishbloodVital fluid in body; metaphorically, kinship or sacrifice
From Old English blod (Proto-Germanic *blutam). Retains both physiological and theological meanings in Christian discourse.