Σαλά

Sala

Definition

Σαλά (Sala) is a proper noun used exclusively as a personal name in the New Testament. It refers to a figure in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, specifically as the son of Cainan and father of Eber (Luke 3:35). This name connects the lineage of Jesus back to the patriarchs of the Old Testament, specifically to Shem, the son of Noah. In the biblical record, Sala serves as a vital link in the genealogical chain from Adam to Jesus, emphasizing the historical continuity of God's redemptive plan.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Luke 3:35, within the genealogy of Jesus presented by the Gospel writer. Its usage is strictly as a proper name for an ancestral figure. The context is entirely genealogical, listing Sala as one of the forefathers in the line from Adam to Joseph, the husband of Mary.

Etymology

The Greek Σαλά (Sala) is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew name שֶׁלַח (Shelach), found in the Old Testament (e.g., Genesis 10:24, 11:12-15, 1 Chronicles 1:18, 24). The name is carried over from the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures), where the same transliteration is used. Its meaning in Hebrew is often understood as 'dart' or 'sprout'.

Semantic Range

While primarily a proper name, Sala's inclusion in Luke's genealogy (Luke 3:23-38) holds theological significance. This genealogy traces Jesus's lineage back to Adam, 'the son of God,' establishing Jesus's connection to all humanity and His role as the promised Messiah for all people. Understanding that 'Sala' is the Greek form of the Hebrew 'Shelach' enriches reading by highlighting Luke's intentional use of the Septuagint to connect Jesus to the authoritative Hebrew scriptural record, affirming the unity of the biblical narrative.

In the 1st-century Jewish and Greco-Roman world, genealogies were crucial for establishing identity, heritage, and social standing. For Jewish readers, a name like Sala, directly borrowed from the Septuagint, would immediately evoke the patriarchal history from Genesis and Chronicles. It signaled Jesus's legitimate place within the historic people of Israel and the fulfillment of promises made to their ancestors.

There are no direct synonyms, as it is a unique proper name. However, it is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew: שֶׁלַח (Shelach, H7974) — the original Hebrew form of the name found in the Old Testament.

Word Details

Scripture References