### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word σαρόω (saróō `{{G4563}}`) fundamentally means "to sweep." Derived from a root suggesting "to brush off" or "to drag" (akin to σύρω `{{G4951}}`), it denotes the physical action of cleaning a surface by moving dirt, dust, or debris away, typically with a broom. Its semantic range is quite narrow, primarily confined to this literal act of domestic cleaning. However, its significance in biblical texts arises from its metaphorical application, where the mundane act of sweeping takes on profound spiritual implications.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term σαρόω appears twice in the New Testament, both times in the Gospel of Luke, and in distinctly different parables, lending the word rich contextual meaning:
1. **[[Luke 11:25]]**: In the parable of the unclean spirit returning, Jesus describes the house it finds as "swept and put in order" (σαρόω καὶ κεκοσμημένον). Here, "swept" signifies a state of emptiness or superficial cleanliness. The house, representing a person's life or spiritual condition, has been cleared of one evil but not filled with good or the presence of God. This creates a vacuum, making it vulnerable to a worse re-infestation by the spirit and seven others. The sweeping, in this context, is a preparatory act that, without subsequent positive filling, leads to a more dire spiritual state.
2. **[[Luke 15:8]]**: In the parable of the lost coin, a woman, having lost one of her ten silver coins, "lights a lamp and sweeps the house and searches carefully until she finds it." Here, "sweeps" describes a diligent, purposeful, and even desperate action. The act of sweeping is not merely about cleaning but is an active method of searching, stirring up the dust and debris on the floor to reveal the hidden, valuable item. It signifies thoroughness, persistence, and an earnest commitment to recovering what is lost.
In both contexts, σαρόω describes an action taken within a domestic setting, yet it serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual realities.
### Related Words & Concepts
While σαρόω itself is specific to the act of sweeping, its occurrences connect it to broader biblical concepts and related terms:
* **σύρω (syrō `{{G4951}}`)**: As noted in the base definition, this word means "to drag" or "to draw," highlighting the physical motion inherent in sweeping.
* **καθαρίζω (katharizō `{{G2511}}`)**: "To cleanse" or "to purify." While sweeping is a form of physical cleansing, the contexts in Luke differentiate it from spiritual purification. In [[Luke 11:25]], the sweeping is merely external, lacking true inner purity.
* **κοσμέω (kosmeō `{{G2885}}`)**: "To adorn" or "to put in order." Used in conjunction with σαρόω in [[Luke 11:25]], it emphasizes the superficial arrangement that can mask spiritual emptiness.
* **Diligence and Persistence**: As seen in [[Luke 15:8]], the act of sweeping is linked to an earnest and unceasing effort to find what is precious.
* **Spiritual Emptiness vs. Filling**: The "swept house" of [[Luke 11:25]] highlights the danger of a spiritual vacuum, contrasting with the need for positive spiritual occupation (e.g., by the Holy Spirit or good works).
* **The Search for the Lost**: The sweeping in [[Luke 15:8]] is an integral part of the divine pursuit of lost souls, a theme central to Luke's Gospel.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of σαρόω is derived almost entirely from its metaphorical use in Christ's parables, transforming a simple domestic chore into a profound spiritual lesson:
1. **The Danger of Spiritual Vacuum**: In [[Luke 11:25]], the "swept and put in order" house serves as a stark warning. It illustrates that merely casting out evil or achieving a state of moral neutrality is insufficient for true spiritual well-being. Without being filled with God's presence, His Spirit, or righteous living, the cleansed space becomes an inviting void for greater spiritual darkness. This underscores the necessity of not only turning from sin but actively turning *to* Christ and being indwelt by His Spirit. A negative righteousness (abstaining from evil) must be complemented by a positive righteousness (living for God).
2. **The Diligent Pursuit of the Lost**: In [[Luke 15:8]], the woman's meticulous sweeping for the lost coin is a powerful image of God's earnest and persistent search for every lost individual. The act of sweeping, though potentially arduous and messy, is undertaken with immense value placed on the lost item. This parable beautifully portrays the divine initiative in salvation: God does not passively wait but actively seeks out those who are spiritually lost, demonstrating His immeasurable love, diligence, and joy in their recovery. It highlights the value of each soul in God's eyes and the extent to which He will go to redeem it.
In both instances, the seemingly mundane act of sweeping becomes a vehicle for profound theological truths about human spiritual responsibility and God's relentless grace.
### Summary
The Greek word σαρόω (saróō `{{G4563}}`), meaning "to sweep," appears twice in the New Testament, exclusively in the Gospel of Luke, where it carries significant metaphorical weight. In [[Luke 11:25]], the "swept house" illustrates the perilous state of spiritual emptiness, warning that merely removing evil without filling the void with divine presence leaves one vulnerable to greater spiritual oppression. Conversely, in [[Luke 15:8]], the act of a woman sweeping diligently to find a lost coin powerfully symbolizes God's active, persistent, and painstaking search for every lost soul. Thus, σαρόω, while a simple verb describing a physical action, becomes a rich theological term, illuminating both the dangers of spiritual vacuum and the profound, tireless love of God in seeking the lost.
TRV