sarx (σάρξ)
- Language: Greek
- Romanized: sarx
- Original script: σάρξ
- Gloss: flesh
Bodily language important for sacramental and Johannine readings of This Is My Body. Where sōma names the body lifted at the Supper, sarx names the eating discourse of John 6.
Concordance Aid
Reading Note
Example passages: John 1:14; John 6:51-56; Galatians 5:16-17.
Sarx brings the reader close to flesh, mortality, and embodied life. In John 6, that closeness is difficult on purpose. The word keeps bread from becoming a thin symbol or a simple dietary object.
Translation Range
Flesh, bodily life, human nature, mortal humanity.
Not To Be Confused With
Sarx is not the same as sōma. Sōma often names body as a whole; sarx presses into flesh, mortality, and embodied life.
Translator’s Choice
Translating sarx as “flesh” keeps the difficulty. Softer renderings can make the passage easier but may reduce its force.
Related entries
- Soma — body
- Eucharisteo — to give thanks