Chinese characters and the Bible

Chinese history extends over 4000 years. The oldest writings were carved on pieces of bones called oracle bones. Modern Chinese writing has evolved from these oracle bone characters. Although many of the words are different from their ancient forms, some of them still retain their original characteristics.

Many Chinese words are like pictures that tell a story. What story do they tell? Could some of the scenes from the Bible be depicted in these Chinese words?

Chinese Word for Greed

Tree + Tree + Woman = Covet

The woman turned away from the Tree of Life and coveted the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

“When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate.” (Genesis 3:6)

The first sin occurred when Eve coveted the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, and ate its fruit even though it was forbidden by God.

Chinese Word for Righteousness

Spear in Hand = Me

Lamb over Me = Righteousness

Since the first sin, humans have committed all kinds of sins and loved violence. But God has provided us a Savior through Jesus, who became “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). Covered by the blood of the Lamb, I am made righteous.

Take a look at the talks below to learn more.

Chinese characters and the Bible: God in ancient China

God’s promise for the Chinese (English version)

God’s promise for the Chinese (Chinese version)

For an in-depth study of ancient Chinese writing, download the free book Oracle Bones Speak (Chinese edition).

For a pamphlet on this subject, download Genesis and the Ancient Chinese (Chinese tract) or Genesis and the Ancient Chinese (English tract).

For a short article in English, see Chinese Characters and Genesis.


Bible - My Loving God

Read the book of Genesis in the Bible.

Learn more about Bible archaeology and ancient writings.