From movies to advertisements, the English language relies on clever puns, witty sayings, and familiar phrases to connect with the people. Interestingly, some of the most common quotes have a connection or have originated in the Bible. In this article, you will encounter a few.
“forbidden fruit”
A prohibited object or person is often called ‘forbidden fruit.’ It’s probably quite easy to figure out where the origin of this reference comes from , the tale of the Garden of Eden. God told the first humans on earth to leave the tree of knowledge alone and not eat any of its fruit. The forbidden fruit in this case was the apple. However, Eve was tempted to eat the fruit and persuaded her mate to do the same. For disobeying his request, God punished Adam and Eve with a range of consequences, including making them feel shameful about their naked bodies. The term has appeared in many different storylines, books and movies. In the King James Version of the Bible, you will find the reference in the Book of Genesis:
“Genesis 2:9 And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.
2:16 And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat:
2:17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
3:3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.”
“my cup runneth over”
When a person has more than what they need, it is often referred to as “my cup runneth over.” The reference to this saying is found in Psalms 23:5 of the King James Version of the Bible: “Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.”
“many are called but few are chosen”
The phrase “many are called but few are chosen,” sounds quite similar to a message found in an advertisement for the military. It makes a reference to some of qualities found in humankind, and only a select few will meet the requirements needed. The quote appears in Matthew 22 of the King James Version of the Bible:
“22:11 And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:
22:12 And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.
22:13 Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
22:14 For many are called, but few are chosen.”
