Blessing
Category
Salvation & Redemption
Biblical Definition
God's bestowal of favor, fruitfulness, well-being, and covenant good upon His creatures and especially upon His people according to His gracious purpose.
Origin(s)
Hebrew: בָּרַךְ / בְּרָכָה; Greek: εὐλογία
Transliteration
bārak; bĕrākâ; eulogia
Literal meaning
to bless; blessing; blessing, good word
Key Scripture(s)
Genesis 1:22,28; Genesis 12:2-3; Numbers 6:24-26; Psalm 67:1-2; Ephesians 1:3; Galatians 3:14
Theological Significance
Blessing is central to the biblical storyline because it expresses God's intention to bring life and favor to the world through His covenant purposes. In Genesis the promised blessing given to Abraham becomes the channel through which the nations will ultimately be blessed in Christ.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
Biblical blessing is not identical with comfort, wealth, or ease. Scripture presents it as God's favor, often joined with obedience, mission, and fellowship with Him.
Practical Application
This word calls believers to receive God's gifts with gratitude and to become a means of blessing to others.