How does holy develop through the rest of Scripture?

Holiness expands from the Sabbath (time) to the temple (place) to the priesthood (people) to the church (community) to believers (individuals). Ultimately, holiness means being set apart to reflect God's character.

All First Mentions

Law of First Mention

Where Does the Bible First Mention Holy?

Q: Where does the Bible first mention holy?

The Bible first mentions holy in Genesis 2:3, using the original word qadosh (קדוש). God blessed the seventh day and made it holy—the first use of qadosh applies not to a person, place, or object, but to time itself. Holiness begins as separation from ordinary use for God's purposes.

The Bible first mentions holy in Genesis 2:3, from the original word qadosh (קדוש). God blessed the seventh day and made it holy—the first use of qadosh applies not to a person, place, or object, but to time itself. Holiness begins as separation from ordinary use for God's purposes.

The Seed of Everything That Follows

Holiness is not primarily about moral purity but about being designated as belonging to God.

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