Σαλμών (Salmōn)
Salmōn
Salmon
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
Salmōn is a proper name appearing in the genealogies of Jesus in Matthew 1:5 and Luke 3:32. It identifies the husband of Rahab and the father of Boaz, linking the story of Israel’s entry into the Promised Land with the lineage of King David.
The name derives from the Hebrew Shalmon, which means "rayment" or "a garment." This etymology connects a historical figure in the tribal records to a concrete image of clothing, perhaps reflecting a personal characteristic or family tradition. In the biblical narrative, Salmōn serves as a crucial link between the spies sent into Canaan and the establishment of the Davidic monarchy.
Though he is not a central character in the historical books, his inclusion in Matthew’s Gospel highlights the diverse origins within Jesus’ ancestry. The presence of Rahab, a Canaanite woman, in this line underscores the inclusive nature of the covenant community. Salmōn’s name reminds readers that the messianic line was built through ordinary people with specific, tangible histories.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Salmōn appears in the genealogies of Jesus, marking a quiet but vital link between the conquest of Canaan and the rise of King David. His name, meaning 'garment,' evokes the tangible reality of human history. He is not described with grand speeches or miracles, yet his presence in Matthew’s list shows that God works through ordinary lives.
The inclusion of Salmon highlights how faithfulness often looks like simple obedience. By connecting him to Rahab, a woman from Jericho, the lineage reminds us that God’s plan embraces people from all backgrounds. This genealogy is not just a list of names; it is a record of grace reaching into every corner of society.
For your faith, this offers comfort. You are part of a long story where God uses everyday people to fulfill His purposes. There is no need to feel insignificant, for even those with little recorded history play a role in the greater narrative of redemption.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Salmon;1×
- Salmon1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- Σαλμών·1×
- Σαλμὼν1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 1:5
Salmon became the father of Boaz by Rahab. Boaz became the father of Obed by Ruth. Obed became the father of Jesse.
This verse explicitly links Salmon to Rahab, showing how the messianic line includes a Canaanite convert and demonstrating God's grace across cultural boundaries.
-
Matthew 1:4
Ram became the father of Amminadab. Amminadab became the father of Nahshon. Nahshon became the father of Salmon.
Here Salmon is identified as the son of Nahshon, placing him directly in the line of Judah during the time of the Exodus and settlement.