Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Genesis”
The biblical word “Genesis” traces back to Greek (genesis (γένεσις)), where it meant “Origin, birth, generation, beginning; the coming into being of something”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “The first book of the Bible; the origin or beginning of something”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Greek
Greekgenesis (γένεσις)Origin, birth, generation, beginning; the coming into being of something
Greek genesis from gignesthai (to be born, come into being). Septuagint translators used it for the Hebrew word Bereishit (in the beginning), meaning origin or source.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatingenesisThe origin or creation of the world and humanity; the first book of Scripture
Latin genesis from Greek genesis. The Vulgate called the first book Genesis. It narrates creation (Genesis 1), humanity's fall (Genesis 3), and the patriarchal covenant promises.
Modern English
EnglishgenesisThe first book of the Bible; the origin or beginning of something
From Latin and Greek. Biblical Genesis describes creation in 6 days, Adam and Eve, Noah's flood, and patriarchs through Joseph. Modern use: origin or initial stage of anything.