Theology Vocab – Genesis

Vocabulary flashcards covering key Genesis-related theological terms and definitions.

Genesis

The first book of the Bible, which describes God’s creation of the world and humanity, the drama of sin, and the hope for salvation.

Sacred Scripture

The written record of God’s revelation contained in the Old and New Testaments; composed by human authors inspired by the Holy Spirit; the Word of God.

The Word of God

Another name for Sacred Scripture—the message of God revealed to humanity through the Scriptures.

Polytheistic

Characterized by belief in many gods.

Logos

The Divine Word of God; Logos is Greek for “word.”

Holy Trinity

The Christian mystery that God is three Persons in One God: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

Angel

A purely spiritual, immortal, personal being created by God who serves as His messenger; angels have intelligence and free will and may appear to humans in human form; from Greek angelos meaning “messenger.”

Intellect

One of the rational faculties of the human soul; the ability to use reason in pursuit of truth.

Free Will

One of the faculties of the human soul; the ability to choose and act based on knowledge and understanding.

Rational Faculties

The collective name for the human soul’s powers of intellect and free will.

Dignity

The quality of being worth and honor or respect; possessing great value or worth.

Steward

One who has been given the duty to care for and cultivate something responsibly.

Dominion

Ownership of something, including the kingly power to rule over it and make decisions about how it will be used for the common good.

Complementary

Combining in such a way as to enhance or complete one another.

Chastity

The true integration of sexuality within a person’s bodily and spiritual being; includes an apprenticeship in self-mastery; each of us is called to chastity.

Vocation

A call from God to a permanent state of life: ordained priesthood, consecrated religious life, or marriage. All people have a vocation from God to love and to be holy.