שְׂרוֹךְ (se.rokh)
se.rokh
thong
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun sarokh refers specifically to the thong or strap used to secure a sandal to the foot. In the ancient Near East, footwear was often simple leather soles held in place by cords that wrapped around the ankle or instep. This word identifies that functional piece of equipment, highlighting the practical details of daily travel and labor.
Its appearance is quite limited in Scripture, occurring only twice. Genesis 14:23 uses it when Abram refuses to take even a "thread or sandal thong" from the king of Sodom, emphasizing his total refusal of material gain. Isaiah 33:25 employs it metaphorically, describing Jerusalem’s streets as places where the feet of lions will not tread because there are no sandals with their thongs to carry them.
This rare term grounds biblical narratives in physical reality. It reminds readers that ancient journeys involved simple gear and that even small objects like a shoe strap could carry significant symbolic weight regarding ownership, humility, or divine protection.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
In ancient times, a sandal thong was more than just a piece of leather; it was essential for keeping one’s footing on dusty roads and rocky paths. This small detail reminds us that our daily walk requires steady support. When we trust in God’s guidance, He provides the stability we need to move forward without stumbling, even when the terrain is difficult.
Abram’s refusal to take even a sandal strap from the king of Sodom shows how deeply we can value integrity over material gain. By refusing such a small token, he made a powerful statement that his wealth came only from God. This teaches us that true security does not come from what we hold onto, but from who holds us.
Similarly, Isaiah’s vision of unbroken straps points to God’s protective care over His people. When our foundations are secure in Him, we can face life’s challenges with confidence. May you find rest in knowing that your steps are upheld by a faithful Creator who cares for the smallest details of your journey.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a thong of2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- שְׂרֽוֹךְ\־1×
- שְׂר֥וֹךְ1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 14:23
that I will not take a thread nor a sandal strap nor anything that is yours, lest you should say, ‘I have made Abram rich.’
This verse highlights Abram’s commitment to integrity by refusing even the smallest token of payment, showing that his source of blessing was solely God.
-
Isaiah 5:27
No one shall be weary nor stumble among them; no one shall slumber nor sleep, neither shall the belt of their waist be untied, nor the strap of their sandals be broken,
Here the unbroken strap symbolizes the readiness and strength of God’s people as they execute His judgment without fatigue or failure.