First Mention Bible study

A first occurrence is a starting point for comparison. Read its setting, then compare later passages rather than assuming the first use settles every later meaning.

An exact-word first occurrence

For a spelling-based study, search a word in Word Study with Exact Word selected. Occurrences appear in canonical Bible order. The first result is the earliest occurrence of that English spelling, not necessarily the earliest appearance of its subject or concept.

Find the first exact occurrence of charity

Example: charity

1 Corinthians 8:1 KJV
Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.

This is the first exact English-word occurrence of charity in canonical KJV order. It does not mean that love is absent from earlier Scripture.

Study charity and its later uses

Example: thither

Genesis 19:20 KJV
Behold now, this city is near to flee unto, and it is a little one: Oh, let me escape thither, (is it not a little one?) and my soul shall live.

This is the first exact English-word occurrence of thither in canonical KJV order. The surrounding account identifies the city to which Lot asks to escape.

Study thither and compare destinations

Use first occurrences with care

The reader’s First Mention panel may use the earliest relevant word or concept. A concept study and an exact English-spelling search can therefore have different starting points. Identify which question you are asking, and compare the complete passages.

Being first is not a rule that overrides a later verse’s grammar or context. Compare the speaker, subject, action, and setting in each passage.

First Mention methodology