Bible Dictionary

Precept

A rule, instruction, or principle given to guide conduct.

Quick Reference

Total Entries

516

Entry Position

365 of 516

Letter

P

Meaning

A rule, instruction, or principle given to guide conduct.

Key Scriptures

  • Psalm 19:8
  • Psalm 103:18
  • Psalm 111:7
  • Psalm 119:4-5
  • Psalm 119:15
  • Psalm 119:27
  • Psalm 119:40
  • Psalm 119:45
  • Psalm 119:56
  • Psalm 119:63
  • Psalm 119:69
  • Psalm 119:78
  • Psalm 119:87
  • Psalm 119:93
  • Psalm 119:100
  • Psalm 119:104
  • Psalm 119:128
  • Psalm 119:159
  • Psalm 119:168

Also Called

precepts

Original Language

Hebrew

פִּקּוּד

piqqud

precept; commandment; instruction

Greek

ἐντολή

entolē

commandment; command; instruction

Meaning

A precept is a rule, instruction, or principle given to guide conduct.


Biblical Usage

In Scripture, a precept is an instruction, rule, or principle given for conduct or obedience.

The term is especially prominent in the Psalms in reference to God’s instructions and commands.

It can also refer more generally to an established principle or instruction.


Key References

  • Psalm 19:8
  • Psalm 103:18
  • Psalm 111:7
  • Psalm 119:4-5
  • Psalm 119:15
  • Psalm 119:27
  • Psalm 119:40
  • Psalm 119:45
  • Psalm 119:56
  • Psalm 119:63
  • Psalm 119:69
  • Psalm 119:78
  • Psalm 119:87
  • Psalm 119:93
  • Psalm 119:100
  • Psalm 119:104
  • Psalm 119:128
  • Psalm 119:159
  • Psalm 119:168

  • Commandment
  • Statute
  • Ordinance
  • Instruction
  • Law
  • Wisdom
  • Obedience

Study More

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

Scriptures

  • Psalm 19:8
  • Psalm 103:18
  • Psalm 111:7
  • Psalm 119:4-5
  • Psalm 119:15
  • Psalm 119:27
  • Psalm 119:40
  • Psalm 119:45
  • Psalm 119:56
  • Psalm 119:63
  • Psalm 119:69
  • Psalm 119:78
  • Psalm 119:87
  • Psalm 119:93
  • Psalm 119:100
  • Psalm 119:104
  • Psalm 119:128
  • Psalm 119:159
  • Psalm 119:168

Related Terms

Study Topics

law wisdom obedience instruction