The Use of Euphemism in the Bible

In the Old Testament in particular, the biblical authors frequently substituted words and phrases, or used circumlocution, to avoid explicit language. The most extensive use of euphemism is in relation to body parts or functions, whether sexual or excretory in nature. Use of euphemism is a common sociolinguistic phenomenon because social norms place limits on what can and cannot be said in certain contexts. Euphemisms provide alternative and less explicit ways to discuss unpleasant (and possibly taboo) subjects such as sexuality, waste disposal, and death. Biblical euphemisms generally fit this pattern of avoiding words associated with sex and human waste.

Euphemism itself generally functions in two ways:

1. the wholesale replacement of one word for another (e.g., “genitals” with “feet”)

2. circumlocution—evasive elaboration of a word

It can be difficult to accurately translate such euphemisms of cultural taboos. However, the choice of substitute words is sometimes logical, as with the use of “water” in place of “urine” or “waste” in place of “feces.” “Feet” may have been used in place of genitals due to the practical association of feet with filth in antiquity (Minkoff, “Coarse,” 279).