### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word Ναχώρ (Nachōr), Strong's `{{G3493}}`, is a proper noun, serving as a direct transliteration of the Hebrew name נָחוֹר (Nachor or Nahor), Strong's `{{H5152}}`. As a proper noun, its semantic range is highly specific, referring exclusively to a particular individual in biblical history. The core meaning is simply the name of this person. The base definition explicitly identifies him as "the grandfather of Abraham." This precision is crucial, as the Hebrew נָחוֹר (Nahor) can also refer to Abraham's brother. However, Ναχώρ (Nachōr) in the Greek New Testament and Septuagint consistently points to the patriarch who was the son of Serug and father of Terah, thereby establishing his position as Abraham's progenitor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Greek form Ναχώρ (Nachōr) appears in the New Testament only once, within the meticulously recorded genealogy of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Luke. In [[Luke 3:34]], Nachor is listed as a direct ancestor of Jesus, positioned between Serug and Terah. This placement precisely aligns with the Old Testament genealogical records found in Genesis.
In the Septuagint (LXX), the Greek translation of the Old Testament, Ναχώρ consistently translates the Hebrew נָחוֹר (Nahor) when referring to Abraham's grandfather. Key occurrences are found in [[Genesis 11:22-26]], where the lineage from Shem to Terah is detailed. These verses recount that Serug lived 30 years and begot Nachor, and Nachor lived 119 years after begetting Terah. This consistent identification across both Testaments, and particularly within the genealogical frameworks, underscores his specific identity as the patriarch directly preceding Terah in the lineage leading to Abraham. His role is primarily that of a link in the divinely preserved ancestral chain.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Hebrew Origin:** The direct Hebrew counterpart is נָחוֹר (Nahor), `{{H5152}}`. It is vital to distinguish between the two prominent biblical figures bearing this name: Abraham's grandfather (the focus of `{{G3493}}`) and Abraham's brother. The Greek Ναχώρ (Nachōr) in the New Testament specifically refers to the former.
* **Genealogy:** The primary conceptual link for Ναχώρ (Nachōr) is to the biblical genealogies. These lists are not mere historical records but theological statements, demonstrating God's faithfulness in preserving a chosen line through which His redemptive purposes would unfold. Nachor's inclusion highlights his role in this sacred lineage.
* **Patriarchal Period:** Nachor belongs to the pre-Abrahamic patriarchal period, a time characterized by long lifespans and the foundational generations of humanity after the Flood, leading up to the covenant with Abraham. His life bridges the gap between the immediate post-Flood world and the dawn of the Abrahamic covenant.
* **Terah:** As the father of Terah, Nachor is intimately connected to the immediate family of Abraham. Terah, in turn, is the father of Abraham, Nahor (Abraham's brother), and Haran. This familial web is crucial for understanding the early history of the Hebrew people.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Ναχώρ (Nachōr) is primarily derived from his position within the biblical genealogies.
* **Divine Providence in History:** His inclusion, particularly in the Lucan genealogy of Jesus ([[Luke 3:34]]), speaks to the meticulous and sovereign hand of God guiding human history. Every individual, even those not central to narrative accounts, plays a part in God's overarching plan for redemption. God's faithfulness is evident in His preservation of the lineage.
* **Continuity of the Messianic Line:** Nachor represents an essential link in the unbroken chain of generations leading to the promised Messiah. From Adam through figures like Nachor, to Abraham, David, and ultimately Jesus, the genealogies affirm the continuity of God's redemptive purpose and His commitment to His covenant promises.
* **Historical Foundation of Faith:** The explicit naming of individuals like Nachor grounds the biblical narrative in historical reality. These genealogies are not mythical constructs but attest to the real, historical progression of God's interaction with humanity, providing a tangible foundation for faith.
* **Preparation for the Covenant:** Though living before the explicit Abrahamic covenant, figures like Nachor were part of the divine preparation. Their existence and procreation were necessary steps in God's long-term plan to raise up a people through whom His blessings would flow to all nations.
### Summary
Ναχώρ (Nachōr), Strong's `{{G3493}}`, is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew נָחוֹר (Nahor, `{{H5152}}`), specifically identifying Abraham's grandfather. He appears in the Septuagint's genealogical records (e.g., [[Genesis 11:22-26]]) and most significantly in the New Testament within the genealogy of Jesus Christ in [[Luke 3:34]]. His importance is not tied to extensive narrative but to his vital role as a direct ancestor in the divinely preserved lineage that culminates in Abraham and, ultimately, the Messiah. The inclusion of Nachor underscores God's meticulous providence in history, the unbroken continuity of the messianic line, and the historical veracity of the biblical narrative, all testifying to God's unwavering faithfulness across generations in orchestrating His redemptive plan.
TRV