epistle writer crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the crossword clue "epistle writer crossword clue", you've landed on the right page. We've compiled all the most likely answers, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "epistle writer crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PAUL: The most frequent answer, referring to Saint Paul, author of many New Testament epistles.
JOHN: Another common biblical epistle writer, specifically the author of three epistles and Revelation.
5 Letters
PETER: Refers to Saint Peter, who wrote two epistles in the New Testament.
JAMES: The author of the Epistle of James, a prominent figure in early Christianity.
7 Letters
PAULINE: Pertaining to Paul; sometimes used as a descriptor for the collection of epistles attributed to him.
More About "epistle writer crossword clue"
The clue "epistle writer crossword clue" almost universally points towards figures from the New Testament who authored letters, known as epistles. The most famous among these is undoubtedly Saint Paul, whose extensive correspondence forms a large and doctrinally significant part of the Bible. His epistles, such as Romans, Corinthians, and Galatians, provided foundational teachings for early Christian communities.
However, Paul isn't the only 'epistle writer'. Other key apostles like Peter, John, and James also have epistles attributed to them, though fewer in number. Crossword constructors often rely on these specific names due to their historical and religious prominence, making them recognizable answers in various puzzles. Understanding the context of 'epistle' as a formal letter, often for instruction, is key to deciphering this type of clue.
When you see this clue, consider the length of the required answer first. Four-letter answers like PAUL or JOHN are very common. If a five-letter word is needed, PETER or JAMES are strong candidates. Longer answers, like PAULINE, are less frequent but good to keep in mind for more complex or themed puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: For clues like "epistle writer," immediately think of common religious or historical figures. Crosswords often recycle common knowledge from specific domains.
- Check Letter Count First: Before you even think of specific names, see how many letters the answer requires. This immediately narrows down the possibilities. If it's 4 letters, PAUL or JOHN are top suspects; 5 letters points to PETER or JAMES.
- Consider Variations: Sometimes, the clue might point to an adjective derived from the writer's name (e.g., PAULINE). Always be open to less direct forms if the common names don't fit the length.
- Use Cross-References: Don't try to solve a tricky clue in isolation. Look at the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These can provide crucial hints for the 'epistle writer' clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "epistle" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "epistle" almost exclusively refers to a formal letter, particularly those written by apostles in the New Testament of the Bible. It rarely refers to a general letter from any person.
Why is "Paul" such a common answer for epistle writer clues?
Saint Paul is the most prolific epistle writer in the New Testament, with numerous letters (like Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians) attributed to him. His prominence and the common four-letter length of his name make him a frequent and easily guessable answer.
Are there any modern epistle writers in crosswords?
It's highly unlikely that a crossword clue for "epistle writer" would refer to a modern author unless it's a very specific, themed puzzle with a clear indication. The term is heavily weighted towards its biblical context in general crossword puzzles.