Behold!

From Biblical origins to daily lingo: 12 phrases that came from the Bible

Image: Aaron Burden

Many common phrases we use today are direct quotes from the Bible. Expressions like "forbidden fruit," "by the skin of your teeth," and "writing on the wall" have slipped seamlessly into everyday conversation, often with little thought to their origins. They can all be found in the pages of the Bible. Which of these sayings do you use?

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The phrase "a drop in the bucket" refers to something very small or insignificant compared to a much larger whole.

The idiom comes from the Bible, specifically Isaiah 40:15, where nations are described as a "drop of a bucket" to show their smallness in comparison to God.

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To be "at one’s wits' end" means to feel so confused, worried, or frustrated that you no longer know what to do. It describes the point where someone feels mentally exhausted and out of options.

The phrase appears in Psalm 107:27, where sailors facing a violent storm are said to be "at their wits' end." The phrase signified reaching the limit of one’s reasoning.

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"The writing is on the wall" refers to a clear warning that something bad is about to happen. It’s often used when a negative outcome seems unavoidable.

Its origin comes from the Bible, in the Book of Daniel, where a mysterious hand writes a message on the wall during King Belshazzar’s feast in Babylon. The writing foretells the sudden fall of the Babylonian Empire.

Image: Marcus Dall Col

The famous and epic phrase "Let there be light" comes from Genesis 1:3, where God speaks light into existence as the first act of creation.

Today, the phrase goes beyond its literal meaning; it symbolizes the start of knowledge, understanding, or spiritual awakening, with light replacing darkness.

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"Rise and shine" means to wake up and start the day with energy and a positive attitude. It's often used cheerfully to encourage someone to get out of bed and be active.

The phrase has biblical roots, in Isaiah 60:1: "Arise, shine, for your light has come." Over time, the verse’s spiritual call to reflect divine light evolved into the familiar morning pep talk we use today.

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The expression "salt of the earth" is used to describe someone who is honest, kind, and dependable. It’s a compliment often used for humble, good-hearted people.

It comes from the Bible, in Matthew 5:13, where Jesus tells his followers, "You are the salt of the earth." He was praising their value and the positive influence they could have on the world.

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"The blind leading the blind" refers to someone without knowledge trying to guide others who are equally unaware, often leading to failure or confusion.

The phrase comes from the Bible, in Matthew 15:14, where Jesus criticizes unwise leaders who are unaware of the truth yet still try to lead others.

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We’ve all heard this one. "A wolf in sheep’s clothing" describes someone who appears kind or harmless but hides harmful intentions. It warns us not to be fooled by deceptive appearances.

The phrase comes from the Bible's Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus says, "Beware of false prophets… in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."

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"Forbidden fruit" is a term that comes from the Book of Genesis, where Adam and Eve were told not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

Today, it refers to anything tempting but off-limits, something that is morally, legally, or socially prohibited. The idea also emphasizes the desire for what is denied.

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Used to describe a narrow escape or a situation avoided just in time, the phrase "by the skin of your teeth" also has biblical origins.

The phrase comes from the Book of Job, where Job says he escaped "with the skin of my teeth," highlighting how close he came to disaster.

Image: Malachi Brooks

Another phrase that gets thrown around a lot, "go the extra mile" means putting in more effort than expected, showing dedication, kindness, or generosity beyond what’s required.

It comes from Matthew 5:41, where Jesus tells followers to walk two miles if asked to go one, urging people to exceed expectations.

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Our final entry is a poetic expression: "a man after his own heart" refers to someone who shares similar values, interests, or goals, a kindred spirit, deeply aligned in purpose.

The phrase comes from 1 Samuel 13:14, where God describes David as "a man after His own heart." It reflects alignment in spirit or purpose.

Colors and what they represent

The meaning of colors: What shades say about clothes, décor, and mood

Colors aren’t just decoration: they’re tiny storytellers. They set the mood at dinner, change how we feel about our clothes, and can even trick us into thinking a room is bigger (or smaller) than it really is. Here’s a fun tour through ten of the most common colors and what they say in our daily lives. Warning: once you read this, you might never look at your closet—or your living room—the same way again.

Image: Filip Mishevski

Red is the show-off of the color wheel. It’s bold, fiery, and impossible to ignore. Slip on a red dress or tie, and suddenly you’re the main character in the room. Restaurants often use red in their logos because it makes us hungry—think ketchup labels, pizza signs, and soda cans. Coincidence? Definitely not.

In home décor, red can be a little tricky. A red wall screams, "Look at me!" A splash of red, though—like a lamp, pillow, or rug—can give a room instant warmth and energy.

Image: Merani Cosme

Blue is that friend who always calms things down. Think of the ocean or a clear summer sky—just looking at blue makes us breathe a little easier. Studies show it can even lower blood pressure and slow the heart rate.

In fashion, a blue suit or dress shirt has "trustworthy" written all over it. It’s a classic for job interviews and first dates, because it makes people feel safe around you.

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Yellow is sunshine in a crayon box. It’s the color of smiley faces, lemonade stands, and those sticky notes that keep your whole desk organized. Wear yellow, and people immediately think "cheerful."

When decorating, yellow brightens up any space. A pale yellow kitchen feels warm and inviting, like grandma’s house on Sunday morning. Too much, though, and it can be overstimulating—babies have even been shown to cry more in bright yellow rooms.

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Green is the color of life itself. It’s the grass under our feet, the leaves above our heads, and the money in our wallets (if we’re lucky). Green clothes often give off a grounded, approachable vibe—perfect for that "I’m relaxed but stylish" look.

In home décor, green works like a neutral while still feeling lively. Olive green couches are surprisingly forgiving of snack spills, and sage walls look fresh without being overwhelming.

Image: Peter Fitzpatrick

Purple has been associated with royalty for centuries, and it still has that mysterious, slightly dramatic air. A purple scarf or tie says, "I’m bold, but I also read poetry."

At home, purple can be tricky but rewarding. Deep purple curtains bring elegance and luxury, while lighter lavender shades are soothing and romantic. A purple accent wall? That’s the kind of choice that makes your neighbors whisper, "Wow, they must be creative."

Image: Erik Mclean

Orange is like red’s more approachable cousin. It’s energetic but playful, the color of pumpkins, sunsets, and every construction cone you’ve ever tried to avoid. Wear orange, and you’ll never blend into the background—it’s the ultimate "notice me" shade.

In décor, orange works best in doses. A burnt orange sofa pillow can make a beige couch look exciting instead of boring. Pair orange with neutrals, and it feels warm and cozy, like a fall afternoon.

Image: Andrey Zvyagintsev

Black never goes out of style. In fashion, it’s the ultimate slimming trick, but it’s also chic and elegant.

At home, black adds drama and contrast. A black lamp or table grounds a space, making lighter colors pop. Too much, however, can feel a little cave-like—unless you’re going for that "Batman’s lair" vibe.

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White is all about freshness and simplicity. Wear a crisp white shirt, and you look instantly polished—even if you got dressed in three minutes flat. The downside? White attracts stains like magnets attract fridge doors.

In decoration, white walls are like a blank canvas. They make rooms look bigger and brighter, but they can also feel a little… sterile. Add texture—like a fluffy white rug or a cozy throw blanket—and suddenly white feels welcoming instead of hospital chic.

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Pink has traveled a long way from being "just for girls." These days, a pink shirt or dress can look bold, stylish, and surprisingly powerful. Wear pink, and you’re basically saying, "I don’t take myself too seriously—but I look good doing it."

In décor, pink can soften a room without making it feel childish. A dusty rose couch feels trendy and chic, while blush pink walls give off a warm, welcoming glow. Add gold accents, and suddenly pink is less "cotton candy" and more "cocktail lounge."

Image: Mary Skrynnikova

Brown doesn’t usually grab the spotlight, but it’s everywhere—coffee, chocolate, leather jackets, and comfy boots. Wear brown, and you instantly look approachable, dependable, and maybe just a little outdoorsy.

In homes, brown works like a cozy blanket. Wooden furniture, tan couches, or even a rustic rug instantly make a room feel grounded and warm. It’s the color equivalent of comfort food: steady, reliable, and always satisfying.