Overview
The Bible addresses medicine across 11 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Jeremiah, Isaiah and Proverbs. Closely related themes include Drunkenness, Oil, River and Trees. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Isaiah.
Key Bible verses about medicine
Old Testament
Isaiah
From the sole of the foot even unto the head there is no soundness in it; but wounds, and bruises, and putrifying sores: they have not been closed, neither bound up, neither mollified with ointment. ointment: or, oil
For Isaiah had said, Let them take a lump of figs, and lay it for a plaister upon the boil, and he shall recover.
Jeremiah
Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered? recovered: Heb. gone up?
There is none to plead thy cause, that thou mayest be bound up: thou hast no healing medicines. that: Heb. for binding up, or, pressing
Go up into Gilead, and take balm, O virgin, the daughter of Egypt: in vain shalt thou use many medicines; for thou shalt not be cured. thou shalt: Heb. no cure shall be unto thee
Babylon is suddenly fallen and destroyed: howl for her; take balm for her pain, if so be she may be healed.
We would have healed Babylon, but she is not healed: forsake her, and let us go every one into his own country: for her judgment reacheth unto heaven, and is lifted up even to the skies.
New Testament
People in the Bible and medicine
Biblical figures whose stories intersect with this theme.
In the Bible dictionary
Studying medicine for yourself
- Begin with Proverbs 17:22, then read the passages below in canonical order.
- Compare how Jeremiah, Isaiah and Proverbs each treat the theme.
- Consider the lives of Isaiah and how their stories intersect with it.
- Widen the study to related themes: Drunkenness, Oil, River and Trees.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Bible say about medicine?
The Bible addresses medicine across 11 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Jeremiah, Isaiah and Proverbs. Closely related themes include Drunkenness, Oil, River and Trees. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Isaiah.
How many Bible verses are about medicine?
The Bible references medicine in 11 verses (King James Version).
Where does the Bible first mention medicine?
In canonical order, the first of these passages is Proverbs 17:22: “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. like: or, to”
Which people in the Bible are associated with medicine?
Isaiah.
Preach & teach
Outline a sermon or build a study series on medicine.
Preach a series on Medicine →