Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Epistle”
The biblical word “Epistle” traces back to Greek (apostolē (ἀποστολή)), where it meant “A message or letter sent; a written communication”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “A letter, especially a long formal one; in scripture, the letters of Paul, Peter, John, et al.”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Greek
Greekapostolē (ἀποστολή)A message or letter sent; a written communication
Greek apostolē from apostelos (apostle, messenger). Root apo- (away) + stellein (to send). Paul's 13 letters to churches were called epistolai.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinepistolaA formal letter, particularly the Epistles of Paul and other apostles
Latin epistola from Greek epistolē. Used in the Vulgate for New Testament letters. Became standardized term for canonical apostolic writings.
Modern English
EnglishepistleA letter, especially a long formal one; in scripture, the letters of Paul, Peter, John, et al.
From Old French epistle, from Latin epistola. Used in KJV and modern Bible translations for apostolic letters (e.g., 1 Corinthians, Romans).