Divine Inclusion: Σύρος (Strong’s G4948: Syros) Shows Messiah’s Universal Grace

Strong’s G4948: A noun meaning “Syrian,” denoting a person from Syria. Used in Luke’s Gospel referring to Naaman the Syrian, illustrating God’s grace extending beyond Israel to include Gentiles in His redemptive plan.

U- Unveiling the Word

Σύρος carries profound theological significance in demonstrating God’s universal grace. Used specifically of Naaman in Luke’s Gospel, it recalls the Old Testament story where a prominent Syrian general finds healing through Israel’s God. Jesus uses this reference to challenge Jewish exclusivity and demonstrate that divine mercy extends beyond national boundaries. The early church saw this word as evidence of God’s intention to include Gentiles in salvation. Today, it continues to remind us that the Messiah’s grace knows no ethnic or national limits.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: Σύρος, Syros, SEE-ros
• Pronunciation Guide: ‘see’ as in ‘see’, ‘ros’ as in ‘rose’
• Part of Speech: Noun/Adjective

Etymology:

• Derived from Συρία (Syria)
• -ος (-os) ethnic suffix indicating origin
• Root indicates geographical origin
• Suffix denotes personal association or belonging

D – Defining Meanings

• Syrian (person)
• Native of Syria
• Belonging to Syria
• Of Syrian origin
• Syrian by nationality

For compound words:
Not a compound word, but an ethnic designation formed with a geographic root and ethnic suffix

Translation Options:

1. “Syrian” – Standard adjectival use
2. “A Syrian” – Substantival use
3. “Native of Syria” – Descriptive translation

E – Exploring Similar Words

• Συρία (Syria, SEE-ree-ah) – The country Syria – See G4947
• Συριστί (Syristi, see-ris-TEE) – In the Syrian language – See G4955
• Συροφοίνισσα (Syrophoinissa, see-roh-FOY-nis-sa) – Syrophoenician – See G4949

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun/adjective, Σύρος exhibits these features:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine, Feminine
• Declension: Second

Examples of morphological changes:

• Masculine singular: Σύρος
• Feminine singular: Σύρα
• Masculine plural: Σύροι
• Feminine plural: Σύραι

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes Σύρος’s use in ethnic identification. Thayer’s notes its significance in Luke’s theological narrative. LSJ documents extensive classical usage. Vine’s connects it to divine grace toward Gentiles. Strong’s highlights its ethnic implications. LEH traces similar usage in Hellenistic literature. Moulton and Milligan find it common in identity descriptions.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the [Σύρος] Syrian. Luke 4:27

Additional References:
None – This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Σύρος powerfully illustrates God’s heart for all nations. Through Naaman’s story, referenced by Jesus, we see that the Messiah’s healing and salvation extend beyond Israel to embrace all peoples. This word reminds us that God’s grace knows no ethnic boundaries and that all are welcome in His kingdom.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word became important in early church debates about Gentile inclusion
2. Syrian Christians were among the first to translate Scripture into local languages
3. The term appears in ancient medical texts describing healing practices

Strong’s G4948: A noun meaning “Syrian,” denoting a person from Syria. Used in Luke’s Gospel referring to Naaman the Syrian, illustrating God’s grace extending beyond Israel to include Gentiles in His redemptive plan.

Part of speech: Noun/Adjective

Tags: Syrian, Naaman, Gentiles, inclusion, grace, healing, ethnicity, Luke, divine mercy, universal salvation​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​