### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
**G4562 Sarouch** (Σαρούχ) is a proper noun, serving as the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Serug (שְׂרוּג, `{{H8279}}`). The Hebrew root from which Serug is derived, *śārag*, carries meanings related to "to intertwine," "to interweave," or "to branch." While the name itself identifies a specific individual, the underlying Hebrew etymology can evoke concepts of connection, lineage, or a "shoot" or "branch" within a family tree. However, in its usage within the biblical text, its primary semantic function is solely to denote a particular person in a genealogical sequence, not to convey a broader conceptual meaning in Greek.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name **G4562 Sarouch** appears exclusively in the New Testament within the genealogical records of Jesus Christ. Its sole occurrence is found in:
* [[Luke 3:35]]: "the son of Saruch, the son of Ragau, the son of Phalec, the son of Heber, the son of Sala..." This verse is part of Luke's extensive genealogy, which traces Jesus' lineage backward from Joseph (or perhaps Mary's line) all the way to Adam. In this context, Sarouch is positioned as an ancestor of Abraham, establishing a link between the pre-Abrahamic patriarchs and the Messianic line.
In the Old Testament, the corresponding Hebrew name, Serug (שְׂרוּג, `{{H8279}}`), is found in the patriarchal genealogies:
* [[Genesis 11:20-22]]: Serug is listed as the son of Reu and the father of Nahor, who in turn was the father of Terah, Abraham's father. This places Serug firmly within the line descending from Shem, Noah's son, leading directly to Abraham.
* [[1 Chronicles 1:26]]: Serug is again listed in a condensed genealogical summary, reinforcing his place in the historical lineage.
The consistent context in both testaments highlights the importance of precise genealogical records in biblical history, serving to establish the historical continuity of humanity from creation, and more specifically, the lineage from which key figures, particularly Abraham and ultimately Jesus Christ, would emerge.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Hebrew Origin (`{{H8279}}` Serug):** The direct Hebrew counterpart, Serug, is the fundamental connection. Understanding the potential meaning of the Hebrew root as "branch" or "interwoven" enriches the understanding of the name as part of a connected lineage, though its primary function remains identificatory.
* **Genealogy (γενεαλογία, `{{G1076}}`):** The concept of genealogy is intrinsically linked to Sarouch. Biblical genealogies are not mere lists of names; they serve critical theological purposes, including demonstrating divine faithfulness, establishing legal and tribal rights, and validating the Messianic claims of Jesus Christ.
* **Patriarchs:** Sarouch is a significant figure within the pre-Abrahamic patriarchal line. He represents a crucial link in the chain of humanity's descent from Noah, leading to the covenant-making figure of Abraham. His inclusion underscores the historical depth and continuity of God's interaction with humanity.
* **Lineage of Christ:** The most profound connection for the New Testament reader is Sarouch's place in the lineage of Jesus Christ. His presence in Luke's Gospel testifies to the historical reality and divine orchestration of the Messianic line, tracing it back through the ages.
### Theological Significance
While Sarouch himself is not a figure around whom a theological narrative or teaching revolves, his presence in the biblical genealogies carries deep theological significance:
* **Divine Faithfulness and Providence:** The meticulous preservation of names like Sarouch in sacred scripture testifies to God's sovereign oversight of history. Each name is a divinely ordained link in the chain of His redemptive plan, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His promises across generations. It underscores that God's plan unfolds through real people in real history.
* **Historical Grounding of Revelation:** Sarouch's inclusion firmly roots biblical revelation in historical reality. The Incarnation of Christ is not presented as a mythical event, but as the culmination of a verifiable and traceable historical lineage, affirming the truthfulness and reliability of God's Word.
* **Continuity of Salvation History:** Sarouch represents a vital, albeit silent, link in the unbroken chain of salvation history from Adam to Christ. He is part of the "seed" through whom the promises of God, particularly the promise of a redeemer, would eventually be realized. His existence, though briefly noted, affirms the continuous unfolding of God's plan across millennia.
* **Messianic Validation:** For the New Testament audience, Sarouch's presence in Jesus' genealogy in Luke's Gospel serves to validate Jesus' claim as the Messiah. It demonstrates that He fulfills the Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah's descent from specific, historically documented lines, culminating in the promised King.
### Summary
**G4562 Sarouch** (Σαρούχ) is a proper noun, the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Serug (`{{H8279}}`). He is identified in both the Old and New Testaments as a pre-Abrahamic patriarch, appearing in the genealogies of [[Genesis 11]] and [[1 Chronicles 1]], and notably, in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in [[Luke 3:35]]. Though no specific narratives are attached to Sarouch, his inclusion is profoundly significant. He serves as an essential link in the historical and theological chain of God's redemptive plan, demonstrating divine faithfulness in preserving the lineage through which the Messiah would ultimately come. His presence in these sacred lists underscores the historical reality of God's unfolding purposes and the meticulous nature of His divine providence in bringing about the salvation of humanity through Jesus Christ.
TRV