Understanding Scripture

What Are the Original Languages of Scripture?

The Old Testament was written mainly in Hebrew, with a few Aramaic portions, while the New Testament was written in Koine Greek, the common language of the eastern Mediterranean world in the first century.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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Biblical explanation

Hebrew, a Semitic language, carried the Old Testament narratives, poetry, and prophecy for roughly a thousand years of composition, while portions of Daniel and Ezra appear in Aramaic, the diplomatic language of the era. By the time of the New Testament, Greek had become the common trade and cultural language following Alexander's conquests, making it a fitting vehicle for the gospel to spread widely (; ). Translators throughout history, guided by careful scholarship, have worked to render these original languages faithfully into other tongues so that people everywhere can read God's Word in their own language. While no translation is perfect, the essential message of salvation in Christ has been reliably preserved and transmitted across centuries and cultures.

In brief

Hebrew, a Semitic language, carried the Old Testament narratives, poetry, and prophecy for roughly a thousand years of composition, while portions of Daniel and Ezra appear in Aramaic, the diplomatic language of the era.

Bible references

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Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.