### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word Σαούλ (Saoul, `{{G4549}}`) is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew proper noun שָׁאוּל (Shaul, `{{H7586}}`). Its etymological root is the Hebrew verb שָׁאַל (sha'al, `{{H7592}}`), meaning "to ask, inquire, beg, borrow." Thus, the name "Saul" inherently carries the meaning of "asked," "desired," or "prayed for." In the biblical context, it primarily refers to two distinct figures: Saul, the first king of Israel, and Saul of Tarsus, who later became the Apostle Paul. The definition specifically notes its use as "the Jewish name of Paul," distinguishing it from Σαῦλος (Saulos, `{{G4569}}`), though both transliterations refer to the same individual in the New Testament, with Σαούλ often emphasizing the more direct Hebrew pronunciation and perhaps the Jewish identity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term Σαούλ (Saoul, `{{G4549}}`) appears in the New Testament in two main contexts. Firstly, it is found in the genealogy of Jesus as recorded by Luke, referring to an ancestor: "the son of Saul" ([[Luke 3:27]]). This individual is distinct from King Saul of the Old Testament and Saul of Tarsus.
Secondly, and most significantly, Σαούλ is consistently used to refer to Saul of Tarsus, the future Apostle Paul, specifically during the pivotal events surrounding his conversion on the road to Damascus. The dramatic encounter with the risen Christ is marked by the repeated, personal address: "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" ([[Acts 9:4]]). This form of address is reiterated in Paul's own testimonies of the event ([[Acts 22:7]], [[Acts 26:14]]). The use of Σαούλ in these passages underscores Paul's Jewish identity and background as a zealous Pharisee and persecutor of the nascent Christian community. Ananias also addresses him as "Brother Saul" following his blindness and prior to his baptism ([[Acts 9:17]]). The shift from "Saul" to "Paul" (Παῦλος, `{{G3972}}`) in [[Acts 13:9]] often marks a transition point in his ministry, symbolizing his primary focus on the Gentile mission, though his original name continues to be used when recounting his conversion.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **שָׁאוּל (Shaul, `{{H7586}}`):** This is the direct Hebrew etymological source of Σαούλ. It is famously the name of Israel's first king, whose reign and eventual rejection by God provide a significant Old Testament narrative. The meaning "asked" is particularly poignant for a king chosen by the people's request.
* **Σαῦλος (Saulos, `{{G4569}}`):** This is another, more Hellenized, Greek transliteration of the name "Saul" and is also used extensively in the New Testament to refer to Saul of Tarsus. While Σαούλ (Saoul) might reflect a more direct Hebrew pronunciation, both forms refer to the same person and are often used interchangeably in the New Testament text, though Σαούλ is notably reserved for the direct address during the conversion.
* **Παῦλος (Paulos, `{{G3972}}`):** This is the Roman name "Paul," which Saul of Tarsus adopted or began to use more prominently after his conversion and as he embarked on his apostolic mission to the Gentiles. The transition from "Saul" to "Paul" symbolizes a profound shift in identity, purpose, and sphere of ministry, marking a new creation in Christ.
* **Persecution:** The context in which Σαούλ is most vividly employed for Paul directly relates to his former life as a persecutor of the church, highlighting the radical transformation from an enemy of Christ to His most fervent apostle.
### Theological Significance
The name Σαούλ (Saoul, `{{G4549}}`) holds profound theological significance, primarily through its association with the conversion of the Apostle Paul.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Personal Call:** The repeated address, "Saoul, Saoul," by the risen Christ on the Damascus road (e.g., [[Acts 9:4]]) signifies an intensely personal and sovereign divine intervention. It underscores God's initiative in calling individuals, even those actively opposing His purposes, demonstrating His power to redirect lives for His glory.
* **Transformation and New Identity:** The use of his Jewish name "Saoul" during the conversion narrative emphasizes Paul's former identity as a zealous Jew and persecutor. His subsequent adoption of the Roman name "Paul" (Παῦλος, `{{G3972}}`) illustrates the radical transformation and new identity found in Christ. This transition exemplifies the theological concept of being a "new creation" ([[2 Corinthians 5:17]]), where the old self passes away and all things become new.
* **God's Redemptive Purpose:** The very meaning of the name "Saoul" ("asked") can be seen as ironic yet deeply purposeful. Unlike King Saul, who was "asked for" by the people and ultimately rejected for disobedience, Paul, whose name also means "asked," was specifically "asked for" and chosen by Christ for a unique and pivotal role in redemptive history. This highlights God's ability to redeem and repurpose even those who were once His adversaries, demonstrating His boundless grace and unwavering purpose.
### Summary
The Greek word Σαούλ (Saoul, `{{G4549}}`) is a transliteration of the Hebrew name שָׁאוּל (Shaul, `{{H7586}}`), meaning "asked" or "desired." While appearing in a Lucan genealogy ([[Luke 3:27]]), its most significant biblical use is as the original Jewish name of the Apostle Paul, particularly during his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus ([[Acts 9:4]], [[Acts 22:7]], [[Acts 26:14]]). This direct address by the risen Christ underscores the intensely personal and sovereign nature of Paul's divine call, highlighting his former identity as a persecutor and the profound transformation he underwent. The subsequent transition to his Roman name, Paul (Παῦλος, `{{G3972}}`), signifies his new identity in Christ and his mission to the Gentiles. Thus, Σαούλ serves as a powerful linguistic marker of divine intervention, radical conversion, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through an unexpected vessel.
TRV