The phrase "the Word made Flesh" is a theological concept referring to the incarnation of Jesus Christ. It is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ðəˈwɜrd meɪd flɛʃ/. The first syllable is pronounced as "thuh" with a voiced dental fricative 'ð.' The next syllable is pronounced with a long 'e' sound followed by 'aw' and 'r.' The final syllable is pronounced 'flesh' with a short 'e' sound, followed by 'sh' and a final voiceless dental fricative 'ʃ.'
The expression "The Word made Flesh" refers to a theological concept originating from the Christian faith, specifically from the Gospel of John in the New Testament. It describes the belief that the second person of the Holy Trinity, the eternal Word or Logos, took on human form and dwelt among humanity in the person of Jesus Christ.
The phrase is derived from John 1:14, which states, "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us." It signifies the incarnation of God, where the divine nature of the Word, associated with God's wisdom and creative power, became human in the historical figure of Jesus. This idea holds significant theological implications, as it encapsulates the belief in the divine nature of Jesus as both fully God and fully human.
"The Word made Flesh" embodies the idea that through the Incarnation, God entered into a direct and tangible relationship with humankind, experiencing physical existence, human emotions, and the struggles and limitations associated with being human. Jesus, as the Word made Flesh, is considered the ultimate revelation of God's character and the embodiment of divine love, mercy, and salvation.
This concept of the Word made Flesh forms a cornerstone of Christian theology, highlighting the profound nature of Jesus' life, teachings, and sacrificial death, as well as his role as the bridge between God and humanity, mediating salvation and offering the hope of eternal life.