σάρξ

The Greek term sarx has a wide semantic range, referring to the material of living bodies, both human and animal. It can denote the flesh of animals used for food, as seen in Revelation 19:18. More frequently, however, it pertains to the human body, its physical composition, and even humankind as a whole. When referring to humans, sarx emphasizes the tangible, physical aspect of existence, often in distinction to the spirit.

In some contexts, sarx highlights the weakness or mortality inherent in human nature; for example, Jesus acknowledges that "the spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak" (Mark 14:38). This usage underscores the limitations and frailty of human beings. Paul often uses sarx to describe human nature apart from God, which is prone to sin and opposed to the Spirit. In Romans 7 and 8, he develops a contrast between living "in the flesh" and living "in the Spirit," where "flesh" signifies humanity's fallen, sinful condition that resists divine will (Romans 8:9). This does not inherently mean the physical body is evil, but rather that human nature, left to its own devices, becomes oriented away from God.

Furthermore, sarx can simply mean "humanity" or "people," without any negative connotation, as when Paul refers to his "flesh" meaning his Jewish kinsmen (Romans 11:14). It can also emphasize human descent or family ties, like "fathers of our flesh" (Hebrews 12:9). The incarnation of Jesus is described with sarx in the statement that Jesus Christ "is come in the flesh" (2 John 1:7; Hebrews 2:14), affirming His full humanity. This demonstrates the term's adaptability to convey various aspects of human existence, from physical substance to moral disposition and familial connection.