What’s the last word of the Bible? This question has intrigued many readers over the years, as they seek to uncover the final message contained within the sacred text. The Bible, a collection of religious texts revered by billions, spans thousands of years and contains a wealth of wisdom, stories, and teachings. Determining the last word of the Bible can be a complex task, as it depends on the version of the Bible being referenced and the specific translation used. Let’s delve into this intriguing topic and explore the possible answers to this question.
The Bible consists of two main sections: the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament is primarily composed of Jewish texts, while the New Testament focuses on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The last book of the Old Testament is Malachi, and the first book of the New Testament is Matthew. However, the actual last word of the Bible can vary depending on the version and translation.
One of the most widely recognized translations of the Bible is the King James Version (KJV). In the KJV, the last word of the Old Testament is “Amen,” found in the book of Malachi, chapter 4, verse 6. This word is a form of affirmation and is used to express agreement or acceptance. However, the last word of the New Testament in the KJV is “Amen” as well, found in the book of Revelation, chapter 22, verse 21. This repetition of the word “Amen” at the end of both the Old and New Testaments has led many to believe that it holds significant meaning.
Another popular translation is the New International Version (NIV). In the NIV, the last word of the Old Testament is “therefore,” found in the book of Malachi, chapter 4, verse 6. This word serves as a conclusion and reinforces the message of the previous verses. The last word of the New Testament in the NIV is “amen,” found in the book of Revelation, chapter 22, verse 21, similar to the KJV.
Some translations, such as the New American Standard Bible (NASB), include a period as the last word of the Bible. The NASB follows the Greek text and includes a period at the end of the book of Revelation, chapter 22, verse 21. This period signifies the end of the text and serves as a formal closure.
In conclusion, the last word of the Bible can vary depending on the version and translation being referenced. While the KJV and NIV include the word “Amen” as the final word, other translations like the NASB use a period. This variation highlights the diverse interpretations and translations available within the Bible, making it a rich and complex source of wisdom for readers worldwide. Whether it is “Amen,” “therefore,” or a period, the final word of the Bible serves as a fitting conclusion to the timeless teachings and stories that have shaped the lives of countless individuals for centuries.
