The meaning of “σάρξ”
Understanding sárx reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
probably from the base of σαρόω carnal(-ly, + -ly minded), flesh(-ly). - flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e. (strictly...
σάρξ
probably from the base of σαρόω carnal(-ly, + -ly minded), flesh(-ly). - flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e. (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or as the symbol of what is external, or as the means of kindred), or (by implication) human nature (with its frailties (physically or morally) and passions), or (specially), a human being (as such)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 19:6 | “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” Word: σάρξ (sárx) | |
| Acts 2:30 | “Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;” Word: σάρξ (sárx) | |
| Galatians 5:13 | “For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.” Word: σάρξ (sárx) | |
| 1 Timothy 3:16 | “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. ” Word: σάρξ (sárx) | |
| 1 Peter 4:1 | “Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;” Word: σάρξ (sárx) |
Theological Word Study: Flesh
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Flesh, body, mankind
The Hebrew basar (בָּשָׂר) means flesh—humanity's physical, mortal nature. 'All flesh is grass' (Isaiah 40:6), emphasizing human frailty before the eternal God.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Flesh, sinful nature
The Greek sarx (σάρξ) means flesh—both the physical body and the fallen nature opposed to God. Paul contrasts walking 'after the flesh' versus 'after the Spirit' (Romans 8:4). Yet 'the Word was made flesh' (John 1:14) in the incarnation.