Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Testament”
The biblical word “Testament” traces back to Greek / Hebrew (diatheke (Greek), berit (Hebrew)), where it meant “A will; a solemn covenant; a binding agreement”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “A legal document disposing of one's property; a written proof of faith or conviction”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Greek / Hebrewdiatheke (Greek), berit (Hebrew)A will; a solemn covenant; a binding agreement
Greek diatheke (G1242) meaning both will/testament and covenant. Used in LXX and NT to translate Hebrew berit (covenant). Designates the Old and New Testaments as covenantal documents.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatintestamentumA written record of God's covenant; the canonical scriptures establishing the terms of God's agreement
Latin testamentum (will, last testament). Medieval Church standardized 'Old Testament' and 'New Testament' terminology for the Hebrew Bible and Christian scriptures.
Modern English
EnglishtestamentA legal document disposing of one's property; a written proof of faith or conviction
From Old French testament via Latin testamentum. Dual meaning: secular (will) and theological (scripture/covenant).