Bible trivia can be a fun and educational way to deepen your understanding of the scriptures. This post contains some of the hardest Bible trivia questions and answers designed for adults. Whether you’re preparing for a trivia night, enhancing your Bible study sessions, or just challenging yourself, these questions will test your knowledge and provide detailed explanations to help you learn more about the Bible.
Let’s look into some of the most intriguing and challenging questions.
READ ALSO: 45 Children’s Bible Trivia Questions and Answers.
Bible Trivia Questions And Answers For Adults
Old Testament Trivia Questions
1. Who was the first king of Israel?
Answer: Saul
Explanation: Saul, the son of Kish from the tribe of Benjamin, was anointed by the prophet Samuel as the first king of Israel. This event marked the transition of Israel from a group of tribes led by judges to a united monarchy. Saul’s reign is detailed in the books of 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel.
2. What was the name of the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments?
Answer: Mount Sinai
Explanation: Mount Sinai, also known as Mount Horeb, is the location where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God. This significant event is recorded in the book of Exodus, specifically in chapters 19 and 20. The commandments provided a moral foundation for the Israelites.
3. Who was swallowed by a great fish?
Answer: Jonah
Explanation: The prophet Jonah was swallowed by a great fish after attempting to flee from God’s command to go to Nineveh and call the city to repentance. This story is found in the book of Jonah, highlighting themes of obedience, repentance, and God’s mercy.
4. What was the original name of Abraham?
Answer: Abram
Explanation: Before God changed his name, Abraham was known as Abram. The name change, which means “father of many nations,” signified God’s covenant with him, promising that he would be the ancestor of a multitude of nations. This is recorded in Genesis 17.
5. Who was the strongest man in the Bible?
Answer: Samson
Explanation: Samson, a judge of Israel, is known for his incredible strength, which was given to him by God. His story, filled with feats of strength and moral lessons, is found in the book of Judges, chapters 13 to 16. His strength was linked to his Nazarite vow and uncut hair.
6. Who was the mother of the prophet Samuel?
Answer: Hannah
Explanation: Hannah, the wife of Elkanah, prayed fervently for a child and promised to dedicate him to the Lord’s service. God answered her prayer, and she gave birth to Samuel, who became a significant prophet and judge in Israel. Her story is found in 1 Samuel 1-2.
7. Who built the first altar mentioned in the Bible?
Answer: Noah
Explanation: After the flood, Noah built an altar to the Lord and offered burnt offerings. This act of worship and gratitude is recorded in Genesis 8:20 and signifies a new beginning and God’s covenant with Noah and his descendants.
8. Who was the father of King Solomon?
Answer: David
Explanation: King Solomon, known for his wisdom, was the son of King David and Bathsheba. Solomon succeeded David as king of Israel and his reign is detailed in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles.
9. Who was thrown into a den of lions?
Answer: Daniel
Explanation: Daniel was thrown into a den of lions for praying to God despite a royal decree that prohibited such prayer. God miraculously protected him, and he was unharmed. This event is recorded in Daniel 6.
10. Who was the last judge of Israel?
Answer: Samuel
Explanation: Samuel was the last judge of Israel before the establishment of the monarchy. He played a crucial role in transitioning Israel from the period of judges to the era of kings by anointing both Saul and David. His story is found in the books of 1 Samuel.
11. Who led the Israelites into the Promised Land?
Answer: Joshua
Explanation: Joshua, the successor of Moses, led the Israelites into the Promised Land after Moses’ death. His leadership and the conquest of Canaan are detailed in the book of Joshua, highlighting his faithfulness and military prowess.
12. Who was the first high priest of Israel?
Answer: Aaron
Explanation: Aaron, the brother of Moses, was the first high priest of Israel. He was appointed by God to serve as the mediator between God and the Israelites and to perform sacred rituals. His role and responsibilities are detailed in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers.
13. Who was the wife of King Ahab and notorious for her evil deeds?
Answer: Jezebel
Explanation: Jezebel was the wife of King Ahab and is notorious for her idolatry, persecution of prophets, and various evil deeds. Her story and eventual downfall are recorded in 1 Kings 16-21 and 2 Kings 9.
14. Who interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams and rose to power in Egypt?
Answer: Joseph
Explanation: Joseph, the son of Jacob, interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, which foretold seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. His accurate interpretation led to his rise to power as the second-in-command in Egypt. His story is found in Genesis 37-50.
15. Who was the prophet taken up to heaven in a whirlwind?
Answer: Elijah
Explanation: Elijah, one of Israel’s greatest prophets, was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind accompanied by a chariot and horses of fire. This miraculous event is recorded in 2 Kings 2 and symbolizes his special role and divine favor.
New Testament Trivia Questions
16. Who was the first Christian martyr?
Answer: Stephen
Explanation: Stephen, one of the seven deacons chosen to serve the early church, is recognized as the first Christian martyr. His story and martyrdom are detailed in Acts 6-7. He was stoned to death for his bold proclamation of the Gospel, making him a significant figure in early Christian history.
17. How many books are in the New Testament?
Answer: 27
Explanation: The New Testament contains 27 books, which include the Gospels, Acts of the Apostles, Pauline and General Epistles, and the book of Revelation. These books collectively tell the story of Jesus Christ, the early church, and the teachings of Christianity.
18. What is the shortest verse in the Bible?
Answer: John 11:35 – “Jesus wept.”
Explanation: This verse, found in the Gospel of John, is the shortest verse in the Bible. It occurs in the context of the story of Lazarus, where Jesus expresses his compassion and sorrow over the death of his friend Lazarus before performing the miracle of raising him from the dead.
19. Who was the Roman governor who sentenced Jesus to be crucified?
Answer: Pontius Pilate
Explanation: Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea, presided over the trial of Jesus and ultimately sentenced him to be crucified, despite finding no fault in him. This event is recorded in all four Gospels and is a pivotal moment in the Passion narrative.
20. Which apostle was a tax collector?
Answer: Matthew
Explanation: Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector before he became one of Jesus’ twelve apostles. His calling and transformation are described in the Gospels, and he is traditionally credited with writing the Gospel of Matthew.
21. Who wrote the majority of the New Testament letters?
Answer: Paul
Explanation: The Apostle Paul wrote the majority of the New Testament letters, also known as Epistles. These letters were addressed to various early Christian communities and individuals, providing theological teachings and practical advice. Paul’s epistles form a significant part of the New Testament.
22. Who was the disciple who doubted Jesus’ resurrection until he saw him?
Answer: Thomas
Explanation: Thomas, one of the twelve apostles, doubted the resurrection of Jesus until he saw the risen Christ and touched his wounds. This encounter earned him the nickname “Doubting Thomas.” The story is found in John 20:24-29.
23. Who was the female disciple mentioned in the New Testament known for her good works and acts of charity?
Answer: Dorcas (Tabitha)
Explanation: Dorcas, also known as Tabitha, was a disciple in Joppa known for her charitable acts and helping the poor. After she died, Peter raised her from the dead. Her story is found in Acts 9:36-42.
24. Which New Testament book addresses the “Armor of God”?
Answer: Ephesians
Explanation: The “Armor of God” is described in Ephesians 6:10-18. Paul uses this metaphor to encourage Christians to be spiritually prepared for the battles against evil forces by putting on various pieces of spiritual armor.
25. Who was the first Gentile convert to Christianity?
Answer: Cornelius
Explanation: Cornelius, a Roman centurion, is considered the first Gentile convert to Christianity. His conversion and baptism by Peter marked a significant moment in the early church’s mission to spread the Gospel beyond the Jewish community. This event is detailed in Acts 10.
Hard Bible Trivia Questions
26. Who was the mother of Samuel, the prophet?
Answer: Hannah
Explanation: Hannah, the wife of Elkanah, prayed fervently for a child and promised to dedicate him to the Lord’s service. God answered her prayer, and she gave birth to Samuel, who became a significant prophet and judge in Israel. Her story is found in 1 Samuel 1-2.
27. What were the names of Noah’s three sons?
Answer: Shem, Ham, and Japheth
Explanation: Noah’s three sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—accompanied him on the ark during the great flood and helped repopulate the earth after the waters receded. Their descendants are described in Genesis 9 and 10, and they played crucial roles in the post-flood world.
28. Who interpreted King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream in the book of Daniel?
Answer: Daniel
Explanation: Daniel, a Jewish exile in Babylon, interpreted King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream of a great statue representing various kingdoms. His ability to interpret dreams was attributed to divine revelation from God. This account is detailed in Daniel 2.
29. What was the sign of the covenant between God and Abraham?
Answer: Circumcision
Explanation: The sign of the covenant between God and Abraham was circumcision. This physical sign was to be carried out on every male descendant as a mark of their special relationship with God. This covenant and its sign are described in Genesis 17.
30. Which Old Testament book is known for its exploration of the meaning of life and human suffering?
Answer: Ecclesiastes
Explanation: Ecclesiastes is a book in the Old Testament that explores profound themes such as the meaning of life, the futility of human endeavors, and the search for lasting fulfillment. Traditionally attributed to Solomon, it offers reflections on life’s purpose and the human condition.
31. What was the first plague that God inflicted upon Egypt?
Answer: Turning water into blood
Explanation: The first plague that God inflicted upon Egypt was turning the Nile River and all water sources into blood. This plague is described in Exodus 7:14-24 and was the beginning of a series of judgments against Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites.
32. Who succeeded Moses as the leader of Israel?
Answer: Joshua
Explanation: Joshua succeeded Moses as the leader of Israel. He led the Israelites into the Promised Land and oversaw the conquest of Canaan. Joshua’s leadership is detailed in the book of Joshua.
33. Who was the only female judge of Israel?
Answer: Deborah
Explanation: Deborah was the only female judge of Israel, known for her wisdom and leadership. She led Israel to victory against the Canaanite king Jabin and his commander Sisera. Her story is found in Judges 4-5.
34. What was the name of the giant whom David defeated with a sling and a stone?
Answer: Goliath
Explanation: Goliath was the giant Philistine warrior defeated by the young shepherd David with a sling and a stone. This famous story is found in 1 Samuel 17 and demonstrates David’s faith in God.
35. Who was the prophet that God sent to warn Nineveh of its impending destruction?
Answer: Jonah
Explanation: Jonah was the prophet sent by God to warn the city of Nineveh of its impending destruction due to their wickedness. After initially fleeing, Jonah delivered God’s message, and the people of Nineveh repented. His story is found in the book of Jonah.
More Challenging Questions
36. Who was the high priest during King David’s reign who supported his son Adonijah’s claim to the throne?
Answer: Abiathar
Explanation: Abiathar was a high priest during King David’s reign who initially supported Adonijah’s claim to the throne. However, when Solomon was anointed king, Abiathar’s support for Adonijah led to his removal from the priesthood. His story is found in 1 Kings 1-2.
37. In which book of the Bible is the story of David and Goliath found?
Answer: 1 Samuel
Explanation: The story of David and Goliath is one of the most famous accounts in the Bible, found in 1 Samuel 17. It tells how the young shepherd David, armed with only a sling and faith in God, defeated the giant Philistine warrior Goliath.
38. Who was the prophet that confronted King David about his sin with Bathsheba?
Answer: Nathan
Explanation: Nathan was the prophet who confronted King David about his adultery with Bathsheba and the subsequent murder of her husband, Uriah. Nathan’s bold confrontation and David’s repentance are detailed in 2 Samuel 12.
39. What was the occupation of the apostle Paul before his conversion to Christianity?
Answer: Tentmaker
Explanation: Before his conversion, Paul, then known as Saul, was a tentmaker by trade. He continued this occupation even after becoming a Christian, using it to support himself during his missionary journeys. This information is found in Acts 18:3.
40. What are the first three words of the Bible?
Answer: “In the beginning”
Explanation: The Bible opens with the words “In the beginning,” found in Genesis 1:1. These words introduce the creation narrative, where God creates the heavens and the earth, laying the foundation for the entire biblical story.
41. Who was the king of Judah during the time of the prophet Isaiah?
Answer: Hezekiah
Explanation: Hezekiah was the king of Judah during the time of the prophet Isaiah. He is known for his religious reforms and his trust in God during the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem. His story is found in 2 Kings 18-20 and Isaiah 36-39.
42. What were the names of the two spies who brought back a positive report about the Promised Land?
Answer: Joshua and Caleb
Explanation: Joshua and Caleb were the two spies who brought back a positive report about the Promised Land and encouraged the Israelites to trust God and take possession of it. Their faithfulness is recorded in Numbers 13-14.
43. Who was the prophet taken up to heaven in a whirlwind?
Answer: Elijah
Explanation: Elijah, one of Israel’s greatest prophets, was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind accompanied by a chariot and horses of fire. This miraculous event is recorded in 2 Kings 2 and symbolizes his special role and divine favor.
44. Who was the king of Babylon who saw the handwriting on the wall?
Answer: Belshazzar
Explanation: King Belshazzar of Babylon saw the handwriting on the wall during a feast, which Daniel interpreted as a message from God foretelling the fall of Babylon. This event is recorded in Daniel 5.
45. Who was the last king of Judah before the Babylonian exile?
Answer: Zedekiah
Explanation: Zedekiah was the last king of Judah before the Babylonian exile. His reign ended when Jerusalem was captured and destroyed by the Babylonians, leading to the exile. His story is found in 2 Kings 24-25.
Trivia Questions About Biblical Figures
46. Who led the Israelites into the Promised Land?
Answer: Joshua
Explanation: Joshua, the successor of Moses, led the Israelites into the Promised Land after Moses’ death. His leadership and the conquest of Canaan are detailed in the book of Joshua, highlighting his faithfulness and military prowess.
47. What was the name of Moses’ sister?
Answer: Miriam
Explanation: Miriam was Moses’ sister, who played a significant role in his early life and in the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. She is mentioned in Exodus 2, 15, and Numbers 12, where she leads the women in song and dance after crossing the Red Sea.
48. Who was the king of Salem who blessed Abraham?
Answer: Melchizedek
Explanation: Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of the Most High God, blessed Abraham and received a tithe from him. This encounter is recorded in Genesis 14 and is significant for its foreshadowing of the priesthood of Christ.
49. Which prophet was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind?
Answer: Elijah
Explanation: Elijah, one of Israel’s greatest prophets, was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind accompanied by a chariot and horses of fire. This miraculous event is recorded in 2 Kings 2 and symbolizes his special role and divine favor.
50. Who anointed David as king of Israel?
Answer: Samuel
Explanation: The prophet Samuel anointed David as king of Israel, signifying God’s choice of David to lead His people. This anointing occurred while David was still a young shepherd, as recorded in 1 Samuel 16.
51. Who was the wife of King Ahab and notorious for her evil deeds?
Answer: Jezebel
Explanation: Jezebel was the wife of King Ahab and is notorious for her idolatry, persecution of prophets, and various evil deeds. Her story and eventual downfall are recorded in 1 Kings 16-21 and 2 Kings 9.
52. Who was the prophet who confronted King Saul about his disobedience?
Answer: Samuel
Explanation: Samuel confronted King Saul about his disobedience to God’s command to completely destroy the Amalekites. Saul’s failure to obey led to God’s rejection of him as king. This event is found in 1 Samuel 15.
53. Who was the queen who visited Solomon to test his wisdom?
Answer: The Queen of Sheba
Explanation: The Queen of Sheba visited King Solomon to test his wisdom with hard questions. Impressed by his answers and the
splendor of his kingdom, she praised God for Solomon’s wisdom. This visit is recorded in 1 Kings 10 and 2 Chronicles 9.
54. Who was the first high priest of Israel?
Answer: Aaron
Explanation: Aaron, the brother of Moses, was the first high priest of Israel. He was appointed by God to serve as the mediator between God and the Israelites and to perform sacred rituals. His role and responsibilities are detailed in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers.
55. Who interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams and rose to power in Egypt?
Answer: Joseph
Explanation: Joseph, the son of Jacob, interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, which foretold seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. His accurate interpretation led to his rise to power as the second-in-command in Egypt. His story is found in Genesis 37-50.
Final Thoughts
Studying Bible trivia is not just a way to test your knowledge, but also a method to go deeper into the rich stories and lessons contained within the scriptures. These challenging questions and detailed explanations are designed to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the Bible.
FAQ
Q: How can I make Bible trivia more engaging for my group?
A: Incorporate different formats such as multiple-choice questions, timed quizzes, and team competitions to keep the trivia sessions dynamic and fun.
Q: Are there any online resources for finding more Bible trivia questions?
A: Yes, there are numerous websites and apps dedicated to Bible trivia. Some offer daily quizzes, trivia games, and printable question sets.
Q: Can Bible trivia be used in educational settings?
A: Absolutely. Bible trivia can be a valuable tool for Sunday school classes, Bible study groups, and homeschooling. It encourages learning and retention of biblical knowledge in an interactive way.
Q: How can I create my own Bible trivia questions?
A: Read through different books of the Bible and note interesting facts, stories, and details. Formulate questions based on these observations, ensuring a mix of easy, moderate, and hard questions.
Q: Is there a recommended way to study for Bible trivia?
A: Regular Bible reading, studying commentaries, and using Bible study guides can help improve your knowledge. Participating in Bible study groups and discussions can also enhance your understanding and recall of biblical facts.
Conclusion
Bible trivia questions are a fantastic tool to deepen your understanding and engagement with the Bible. The challenging questions provided in this post, along with detailed explanations, aim to enhance your biblical knowledge and appreciation. Use them for personal growth, in group settings, or for educational purposes.
