Short Answer
Complete Explanation
The verb “ascribe” in the Bible is used to denote the attribution of an action, quality, or responsibility either to God or to human beings. Translators render various Hebrew and Greek terms—such as *שָׂמַח* (shamar), *קָרָא* (qara’), and the Greek *ἀποδίδωμι* (apodidomi) or *ἔδωσις* (edosis)—as “ascribe” when the context involves assigning credit, blame, or a divine characteristic.
- Definition:
To attribute or assign a characteristic, action, or responsibility to a person or deity. - Hebrew equivalents:
Verbs such as *שָׂמַח* (to credit) and *קָרָא* (to call) are often translated as “ascribe” in the Old Testament. - Greek equivalents:
In the New Testament, Greek words like *ἀποδίδωμι* (to give back, assign) and *ἔδωσις* (to give) are rendered as “ascribe.” - Theological usage:
“Ascribe” frequently appears in passages that discuss giving glory to God (e.g., Psalm 115:1) or assigning sin to humans (e.g., Romans 3:23). - Key biblical passages:
Examples include Psalm 115:1, Isaiah 42:8, Romans 3:23, and 1 John 5:12. - Translation considerations:
Modern Bible versions choose “ascribe” when the original language conveys a clear sense of attribution rather than simple description.
Common Misconceptions
“Ascribe” is used only to give credit to God.
The term can attribute both positive (glory, blessing) and negative (sin, judgment) qualities to God or humans.
“Ascribe” is a modern English invention not found in biblical texts.
While the English word itself is modern, it translates ancient Hebrew and Greek verbs that convey the same concept of attribution.
FAQ
Is ‘ascribe’ used more often in the Old Testament or the New Testament?
Both testaments employ the concept, but the specific English rendering appears more frequently in New Testament translations due to the Greek verb *ἀποδίδωμι*.
Can ‘ascribe’ refer to negative actions in the Bible?
Yes; scriptures often ascribe sin or judgment to humanity, such as in Romans 3:23, where sin is ascribed to all people.
Does ‘ascribe’ have any doctrinal significance?
It does, as it underlies discussions of divine glory, human responsibility, and the basis for doctrines of justification and sanctification.
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