Bible Canon and Structure (Video)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms about Revelation forms, canon distinctions, Old and New Testament structure, and major biblical divisions.

Sacred Tradition

The living transmission of the Gospel message orally and in practice, handed down through the centuries by the teaching of the Church.

Sacred Scripture

The inspired Word of God written in the Bible.

Magisterium

The teaching authority of the Catholic Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, that interprets Scripture and Tradition.

Inspired Word of God

Scripture is the inspired Word of God and is without error in matters necessary for our salvation.

Old Testament

The first section of the Christian Bible, containing writings written before the coming of Christ.

Catholic Old Testament: 46 books

The collection of 46 books recognized by the Catholic Church in the Old Testament.

Deuterocanonical books

The seven books included in the Catholic canon (Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch, 1 Maccabees, 2 Maccabees) that are not in the Protestant canon.

Apocrypha

The term used for these books in some traditions; also refers to non-canonical writings in Protestant contexts.

Septuagint

The Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures.

Hebrew

The original language of most Old Testament writings.

TaNaK

The Hebrew Bible; trio of divisions—Torah, Nevi'im, Ketuvim.

Torah

The first five books of the Hebrew Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy.

Former Prophets

The group including Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and Kings.

Latter Prophets

The group including Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the Twelve Minor Prophets.

Ketuvim

The Writings; a diverse collection within the TaNaK.

Writings

The Ketuvim; the third division of the TaNaK, including poetry, wisdom, and historical writings.

Pentateuch

Another name for the Torah; the first five books of the Bible: Genesis through Deuteronomy.

Historical Books

Biblical books narrating Israel’s history from entry into the Promised Land through exile and restoration.

Wisdom Books

Books of wisdom, poetry, and instruction (e.g., Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Wisdom, Sirach).

Prophetic Books

Writings of the prophets, including the Major and the Twelve Minor Prophets, delivering messages from God.

Gospels

The four canonical accounts of Jesus’ life and teaching: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

Epistles (Letters)

Letters written to early Christian communities and individuals, containing doctrine and guidance.

Acts of the Apostles

Historical narrative of the early Church after Jesus’ Ascension, including Pentecost and missionary work.

Revelation

The last book of the New Testament; an apocalyptic vision about the end times and God’s final triumph.