### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G4673 (σορός, *sorós*) primarily denotes a funereal receptacle. Its semantic range encompasses items such as an urn, a coffin, or, by extension, a bier. The etymological connection to `{{G4987}}` (σωρεύω, *sōreuō*), meaning "to heap up" or "to pile up," suggests an object designed to contain or support a mass, in this case, the body of the deceased. The most common New Testament usage, as a "bier," refers specifically to the frame or stand upon which a dead body is placed for transport to the grave. This indicates a temporary, movable structure for the deceased prior to burial.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G4673 (σορός, *sorós*) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Luke:
* **[[Luke 7:14]]**: "Then He came up and touched the *bier*; and the bearers stood still. And He said, 'Young man, I say to you, arise!'"
The context is Jesus' encounter with a funeral procession outside the city of Nain. A young man, the only son of a widow, had died, and his body was being carried out for burial on a *sorós*. Jesus' action of approaching and touching the *bier* is highly significant. According to Old Testament law, touching a dead body or anything associated with it would render a person ritually unclean (cf. [[Numbers 19:11-16]]). However, Jesus' touch here is not for defilement, but for the impartation of life. The immediate cessation of movement by the bearers signifies the profound impact and authority of Jesus' presence. His subsequent command, "Young man, I say to you, arise!" directly confronts and overcomes the power of death, demonstrating His divine authority and compassion. The *sorós* thus becomes the focal point of a miraculous reversal of death.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{G4987}}` (σωρεύω, *sōreuō*):** The verb from which *sorós* is likely derived, meaning "to heap up," "to pile up." This etymological link underscores the function of the *sorós* as a container or support for a body.
* **`{{G3498}}` (νεκρός, *nekros*):** The general term for a dead body, representing the contents of the *sorós*.
* **`{{G5028}}` (τάφος, *taphos*):** A tomb or grave, signifying the final resting place for the deceased, distinct from the *sorós* which is for transport.
* **`{{G3419}}` (μνημεῖον, *mnēmeion*):** A monument or tomb, often used interchangeably with `{{G5028}}`.
* **Ritual Purity/Impurity:** The concept of uncleanness associated with death (e.g., [[Numbers 19]]) provides a crucial backdrop for understanding the audacious nature of Jesus' touch of the *sorós*.
* **Resurrection and Authority over Death:** The event at Nain, centered around the *sorós*, is a powerful demonstration of Jesus' unique power to restore life, a hallmark of His messianic identity.
### Theological Significance
The single appearance of G4673 (σορός, *sorós*) in the New Testament, though infrequent, carries immense theological weight.
* **Christ's Authority over Death:** The *sorós* in [[Luke 7:14]] serves as the visible symbol of human mortality and the finality of death. By touching it and subsequently raising the young man, Jesus directly confronts and conquers death itself. This act unequivocally demonstrates His divine power and authority, positioning Him as the Lord of life.
* **Divine Compassion:** The miracle at Nain is deeply rooted in Jesus' profound compassion for the grieving widow. His intervention, initiated by His observation of her sorrow, highlights His empathy and willingness to alleviate suffering, even to the extent of reversing the natural order of death. The *sorós* becomes the object through which this compassion is powerfully manifested.
* **Messianic Sign:** This miraculous raising of the dead, alongside other signs, serves as compelling evidence for Jesus' identity as the Messiah and Son of God. It fulfills prophetic expectations of a figure who would bring life and healing, validating His claims and ministry.
* **Transcendence of Ritual Law:** Jesus' deliberate act of touching the *sorós*, knowing it would render Him ritually unclean, underscores His authority over the Mosaic Law. His mission was not to be bound by the letter of the law when it conflicted with the greater purposes of life, healing, and the demonstration of God's power. He brings a new order where divine power overcomes legalistic constraints.
### Summary
The Greek word G4673 (σορός, *sorós*) denotes a funereal receptacle, specifically a bier or coffin, and is etymologically linked to `{{G4987}}` (sōreuō, "to heap up"). Its singular, yet profoundly significant, occurrence in the New Testament is found in [[Luke 7:14]]. Here, the *sorós* carries the deceased son of the widow of Nain, becoming the focal point for one of Jesus' most remarkable miracles. By touching the *sorós*, Jesus not only demonstrates His absolute authority over death and His boundless compassion for the bereaved but also transcends the ritual purity laws of His time (cf. [[Numbers 19:11-16]]). The *sorós*, therefore, is more than a mere object; it is transformed into a powerful symbol of Christ's life-giving power and His divine, messianic identity, marking a pivotal moment where human despair is met with divine intervention and resurrection.
TRV