### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word Θάρα (Thara, `{{G2291}}`) is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew proper noun תֶּרַח (Terach, `{{H8644}}`). As a proper noun, its primary function is to identify a specific individual. While the Hebrew root from which Terach is derived is sometimes associated with concepts like "delay" or "journey," the name itself, in its biblical usage, functions solely as an identifier for Abraham's father. Therefore, its semantic range is limited to this precise personal identification within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term Θάρα (Thara, `{{G2291}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Luke's genealogy of Jesus:
* [[Luke 3:34]]: "the son of Terah, the son of Nahor, the son of Serug, the son of Reu, the son of Peleg, the son of Eber, the son of Shelah," (ESV). Here, Thara is explicitly named as the father of Abraham (Ἀβραάμ, `{{G11}}`), placing him as a crucial figure in the ancestral line leading to Jesus the Messiah. This inclusion underscores the meticulous nature of Luke's genealogy, tracing Jesus' human lineage back through the patriarchs, connecting him to the broader sweep of salvation history. The Old Testament narrative concerning Terah is found primarily in [[Genesis 11:27-32]], where he is introduced as the father of Abram (later Abraham), Nahor, and Haran, and is noted for initiating the journey from Ur of the Chaldeans towards the land of Canaan, though he settled and died in Haran before reaching the promised land.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that Θάρα (Thara, `{{G2291}}`) is a proper noun, its primary related words are other proper nouns within its familial and historical context:
* **Hebrew Counterpart:** תֶּרַח (Terach, `{{H8644}}`), from which Θάρα is transliterated.
* **Family Members:** His most significant son, Abraham (Ἀβραάμ, `{{G11}}`), as well as his other sons Nahor (Ναχώρ, `{{G3486}}`) and Haran (Ἁράν, `{{G704}}`), and his grandson Lot (Λώτ, `{{G3091}}`).
* **Geographical Locations:** Ur of the Chaldeans (Οὐρ Χαλδαίων), his original home, and Haran (Χαρράν, `{{G5488}}`), where he settled and died.
* **Thematic Connections:** The concept of *genealogy* (γενεαλογία, `{{G1076}}`) is central, as Thara serves as a vital link in the Messianic line. His journey from Ur to Haran also connects him to themes of *migration*, *divine calling* (though not directly for him to Canaan), and *patriarchal history*.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of Thara (Terah) in the biblical record, particularly in the genealogy of Jesus, carries significant theological weight:
* **Continuity of God's Plan:** Thara represents a critical link in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. As the father of Abraham, he stands at the cusp of the Abrahamic covenant, connecting the pre-patriarchal world to the lineage through which God's promises of a chosen people and a Messiah would be fulfilled. His presence in the genealogy affirms God's meticulous and sovereign hand in preserving the Messianic line.
* **Human Imperfection in Divine Providence:** Terah's journey from Ur to Haran, but not to Canaan, highlights the reality of human limitations and partial obedience within God's overarching plan. While God called Abraham to leave his father's house and go to the land He would show him ([[Genesis 12:1]]), Terah's decision to stop in Haran underscores that God often works through imperfect human agents and circumstances to achieve His perfect will. It was Abraham, not Terah, who fully embraced the call of faith.
* **Historical Foundation for Faith:** The mention of Thara grounds the narrative of salvation in concrete historical figures. It reminds us that the promises of God are not abstract but are rooted in the lives and choices of real people, demonstrating God's faithfulness across generations.
### Summary
Θάρα (Thara, `{{G2291}}`) is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Terach (תֶּרַח, `{{H8644}}`), known primarily as the father of Abraham. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Luke 3:34]] places him as a vital ancestral link in the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah. Theologically, Thara's role is significant as he represents a pivotal figure in the lineage leading to the Abrahamic covenant, illustrating God's sovereign preservation of the Messianic line despite human limitations. His incomplete journey to Canaan also subtly contrasts with Abraham's full obedience, underscoring the nature of faith and God's ability to work through all circumstances to achieve His redemptive purposes.
TRV