σῶμα (sōma)
sōma
body
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 120 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word sōma refers to the physical body, encompassing both living and dead human forms as well as animal bodies. In the New Testament, it appears frequently in contexts ranging from Jesus’ teaching on caring for the physical self (Matthew 6:25) to Paul’s description of believers as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). The term is neutral regarding moral status; it simply denotes the tangible vessel through which a person interacts with the world.
Paul expands this concept significantly by using sōma metaphorically to describe the Church as the "body of Christ" (Romans 12:5; 1 Corinthians 12:27). This imagery emphasizes unity and interdependence among believers, suggesting that just as physical limbs serve one another, Christians are called to function together as a single spiritual entity. The word also contrasts the present mortal form with the future resurrected state, as seen in Philippians 3:21 where Paul speaks of Christ transforming our humble bodies into glorious ones.
Etymologically, sōma is related to the verb sozō (to save), highlighting a theological link between physical preservation and spiritual salvation. While modern English often separates "body" from "salvation," the Greek roots suggest an inherent connection between the well-being of the whole person and their deliverance. This linguistic relationship reinforces the biblical view that redemption involves not just the soul, but the entire created order.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word sōma simply means body. It refers to the physical form we inhabit, whether in daily life or in moments of deep spiritual significance. Jesus used this term to remind us that while our physical needs are real, they do not define our entire existence. In Matthew 6:25, He encourages us not to be anxious about clothing or food, pointing out that life and the body are gifts greater than these material concerns.
For believers, the concept of the body extends beyond mere biology. Paul describes the Church as a single body with many members, emphasizing that we are connected and depend on one another. This imagery invites us to view our physical lives and our relationships with others as part of a larger, unified purpose. It is a call to care for ourselves and those around us with kindness and mutual support.
Ultimately, this word bridges the gap between our current earthly experience and the hope of resurrection. Christians believe that God values the whole person—body and soul—and will one day restore all things. This perspective offers comfort, reminding us that our physical lives are held securely in God’s hands and are part of His enduring plan for redemption.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 120 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- body94×
- body,10×
- bodies8×
- a body5×
- body.4×
- body?3×
- body;3×
- [the] body3×
- body [is]2×
- [our] body2×
- the body [is]1×
- of slaves1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σῶμα50×
- σώματος22×
- σώματι18×
- σῶμά14×
- σώματα9×
- σώματος,7×
- σώματός4×
- σῶμα.¶3×
- σῶμα,3×
- σώματί2×
- σώματος;2×
- σώματι·2×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 6:25
Therefore I tell you, don’t be anxious for your life: what you will eat, or what you will drink; nor yet for your body, what you will wear. Isn’t life more than food, and the body more than clothing?
Jesus uses 'body' here to contrast physical needs with the greater value of life, encouraging trust in God rather than anxiety over material provision.
-
Matthew 26:26
As they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks for it, and broke it. He gave to the disciples and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.”
At the Last Supper, Jesus identifies the bread with His body, establishing a profound link between His physical sacrifice and the meal He institutes.
-
Matthew 10:28
Don’t be afraid of those who kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul. Rather, fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Gehenna.
This verse distinguishes between those who can harm the physical body and God, who holds authority over both body and soul in eternity.
-
Luke 24:3
They entered in, and didn’t find the Lord Jesus’ body.
The empty tomb narrative confirms that Jesus’ physical body was raised, affirming the Christian hope of bodily resurrection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word sōma mean?
How is sōma different from psychē?
Why is 'body' important in Christian theology?
Where does sōma appear most frequently?
Every Occurrence (120 verses across 18 books)
Matthew 11 verses
If your right eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out and throw it away from you. For it is more profitable for you…
Matthew 5:30If your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off, and throw it away from you. For it is more profitable for you…
Matthew 6:22“The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is sound, your whole body will be full of light.
Matthew 6:23But if your eye is evil, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness,…
Matthew 6:25Therefore I tell you, don’t be anxious for your life: what you will eat, or what you will drink; nor yet for your body,…
Matthew 10:28Don’t be afraid of those who kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul. Rather, fear him who is able to destroy…
Matthew 26:12For in pouring this ointment on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial.
Matthew 26:26As they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks for it, and broke it. He gave to the disciples and said, “Take, eat;…
Matthew 27:52The tombs were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised;
Matthew 27:58This man went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. Then Pilate commanded the body to be given up.
Matthew 27:59Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth