Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Election”
The biblical word “Election” traces back to Hebrew / Greek (bachar / eklegomai), where it meant “To choose out, to select for a special purpose”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “The theological doctrine that God has chosen certain people or groups for salvation”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Hebrew / Greekbachar / eklegomaiTo choose out, to select for a special purpose
Hebrew bachar (H977) means to choose or select. Greek eklegomai (G1586) means to pick out or choose. Used for God choosing Israel (Deut 7:6) and believers (1 Pet 1:1; Eph 1:4).
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinelectioGod's choice of certain individuals or a people for salvation and covenant relationship
Latin electio from eligere (to choose). Medieval theology developed the doctrine of God's electing grace, emphasizing both individual and corporate election of God's people.
Modern English
EnglishelectionThe theological doctrine that God has chosen certain people or groups for salvation
From Latin via Old French. Reformed theology emphasizes unconditional election to salvation; Arminian theology emphasizes conditional election based on God's foreknowledge of faith.