Bible Dictionary

Discernment

The ability to recognize, distinguish, or judge between different things.

Quick Reference

Total Entries

516

Entry Position

133 of 516

Letter

D

Meaning

The ability to recognize, distinguish, or judge between different things.

Key Scriptures

  • 1 Kings 3:9
  • Proverbs 2:3-5
  • Ezekiel 44:23
  • Matthew 16:3
  • Romans 12:2
  • 1 Corinthians 2:14-15
  • Hebrews 5:14
  • 1 John 4:1

Also Called

discern

Original Language

Hebrew

בִּין

bin

to discern; understand

Greek

διάκρισις

diakrisis

discernment; distinction

Meaning

Discernment is the ability to recognize, distinguish, or judge between different things.

It involves carefully identifying differences or recognizing what something is.


Biblical Usage

In Scripture, discernment refers to the ability to distinguish between things such as good and evil, truth and error, or different spirits.

The term is associated with wisdom, understanding, and sound judgment.


Key References

  • 1 Kings 3:9
  • Proverbs 2:3-5
  • Ezekiel 44:23
  • Matthew 16:3
  • Romans 12:2
  • 1 Corinthians 2:14-15
  • Hebrews 5:14
  • 1 John 4:1

  • Wisdom
  • Understanding
  • Knowledge
  • Truth
  • Judgment

Study More

Continue your Bible study by exploring related Scriptures, dictionary terms, and connected topics.

Scriptures

  • 1 Kings 3:9
  • Proverbs 2:3-5
  • Ezekiel 44:23
  • Matthew 16:3
  • Romans 12:2
  • 1 Corinthians 2:14-15
  • Hebrews 5:14
  • 1 John 4:1

Related Terms

Study Topics

discernment wisdom understanding truth