Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Miracle”
The biblical word “Miracle” traces back to Hebrew / Greek (oth (Hebrew), semeion (Greek), terata (Greek)), where it meant “A sign or wonder showing divine power; an act that violates natural law through God's intervention”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “An extraordinary or impossible event; an act seemingly impossible by natural law”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Hebrew / Greekoth (Hebrew), semeion (Greek), terata (Greek)A sign or wonder showing divine power; an act that violates natural law through God's intervention
Hebrew oth (H226) 'sign' (Exodus 4:8-9); miraculous acts prove divine power. Greek semeion (σημεῖον) 'sign' and terata (τέρατα) 'wonders' pair in Acts 2:22; demonstrate God's authority over creation.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinmiraculumA divine work transcending natural law; evidence of God's intervention or saintly intercession
Latin miraculum (from mirari, 'to wonder at') became the theological term. Medieval theology distinguished three levels: miracles (divine acts violating natural law), wonders (extraordinary events), and signs (divine communication).
Modern English
EnglishmiracleAn extraordinary or impossible event; an act seemingly impossible by natural law
From Old French miracle. Extended to any seemingly impossible or remarkable occurrence. Theologically retained in Christian contexts; colloquially used for any extraordinary happening.