Quick Reference: Bible Abbreviations

Why do I see short names?

In the ask-jesus.live app, we always use the full name of Bible books (like Genesis or Matthew) to keep things clear. However, as you continue your journey, you might see other websites, books, or study Bibles using "shorthand" abbreviations.

If you run into a name you don’t recognize, here is how to decode the most common ones:

1. The "Starting With" Rule

Most abbreviations are just the first few letters of the book:

• Gen = Genesis
• Exod = Exodus
• Matt = Matthew
• Rom = Romans

2. The "Number First" Rule

In the Protestant Bible, several books have two or three parts. If you see a number at the start, it just means "Book 1" or "Book 2":

• 1 Cor = 1 Corinthians (The first letter to the church in Corinth)
• 2 Sam = 2 Samuel (The second book of Samuel’s history)

3. The "Tricky Twins"

Sometimes two books start with the same letters, so their codes look very similar. Here are the ones to watch out for:

• Phil is Philippians (A letter about joy).
• Phlm is Philemon (A very short letter about forgiveness).
• Ps or Psa is Psalms (The book of songs).
• Prov is Proverbs (The book of wisdom).

Tip: If you see a reference like Jn 3:16, don't let the short name stop you! You can usually search the first few letters in any Bible app or search engine, and it will take you right to the full text.