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G4561 · Greek · New Testament
σάρξ
sarx
Noun, feminine
flesh, human nature, sinful nature

Definition

Flesh — the physical body, human nature in its weakness, or the sinful disposition opposed to the Spirit. Sarx has a wide range in the NT: neutral (physical body), positive (the Word became flesh), and negative (the works of the flesh). Paul uses it especially for humanity's fallen inclination.

Usage & Theological Significance

'The Word became flesh' (John 1:14) — sarx at its most dignified, God entering human physicality. But Paul warns: 'Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on things of the flesh' (Romans 8:5). The Spirit-flesh conflict (Galatians 5:17) is not body versus soul but God's way versus humanity's fallen way. The flesh is not the body itself but the whole person oriented away from God.

Key Bible Verses

John 1:14 The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.
Galatians 5:17 The flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit.
Romans 8:5 Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh.
Galatians 5:19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity...
Romans 8:3 God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh.

Related Words

External Resources

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