Bible Students
/ˈbaɪbəl ˈstudənts/
noun
Origin
English
Bible + student — One who studies the Christian scriptures.
Overview
Meaning Now
- A religious movement founded by Charles Taze Russell in the late 19th century.
- Individuals who engage in the study of the Bible, historically associated with the International Bible Students Association.
Language path
English
Earliest form
Bible Students
Earliest period
late 19th century
Journey
The Bible Students movement originated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, through the efforts of Charles Taze Russell. After Russell's death in 1916, a major schism occurred. The faction led by Joseph Franklin Rutherford adopted the name 'Jehovah's Witnesses' in 1931, while various other smaller congregations continued under the original 'Bible Students' designation.
Evolution
- 1879
Bible Students
“Informal designation for Russell's circle of followers.”
Used to describe those associated with Charles Taze Russell.
- 1910
International Bible Students Association
“Formal incorporation of the movement.”
Used as a legal entity for international operations.
- 1931
Jehovah's Witnesses
“Adopted name by the main body under J.F. Rutherford.”
Many groups retained the original name 'Bible Students'.
Connections
Word parts
Bible
root
The Christian scriptures
Student
root
One who studies
Explore next
Related to Bible Students
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.