Strong’s Greek 1084 denotes the state of having come into existence through physical birth. Scripture employs the concept to highlight the common, earthly origin shared by all humanity and to provide a foil for the superior, spiritual birth granted through the gospel.

Occurrences in the New Testament

Matthew 11:11 and Luke 7:28 both record Jesus’ appraisal of John the Baptist: “among those born of women” none is greater, yet the least in the kingdom surpasses him. Here the word underscores the entire human family in its natural state, setting a boundary around what unredeemed humanity can achieve apart from the regenerating work of God.

Contrast Between Natural Birth and Kingdom Birth

The New Testament frequently juxtaposes physical birth with spiritual birth. Jesus states, “no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again” (John 3:3). John 3:6 adds, “Flesh is born of flesh, but spirit is born of the Spirit.” The greatness attainable through natural lineage, education, or personal effort (exemplified by John) is real but limited; entrance into the kingdom requires the new birth produced by the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5).

Old Testament Background

The Hebrew Scriptures repeatedly emphasize that every human “born of woman” shares frailty and mortality (Job 14:1; Psalm 51:5). While physical birth is a blessing (Psalm 127:3), it also transmits Adam’s fall (Genesis 5:3). Prophetic anticipation of a heart change (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezekiel 36:26-27) prepares for the New Testament promise of regeneration.

Christological Implications

Jesus Himself entered history “born of a woman” (Galatians 4:4). He fully identified with those who share natural birth so that He might grant them supernatural birth. His sinless humanity makes possible His substitutionary atonement; His resurrection guarantees believers’ new life (1 Peter 1:3).

Anthropology and the Value of Human Birth

Though tainted by sin, human life remains sacred, created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and intentionally formed: “You knit me together in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13). The recognition that every person is “born of woman” grounds Christian ethics in protecting unborn life, honoring family, and proclaiming the gospel to all.

Ministry Applications

1. Evangelism: The fact that the greatest naturally born individual still needed redemption compels believers to preach the necessity of the new birth.
2. Humility: Ministers measure success not by natural talents or pedigree but by faithfulness to the kingdom.
3. Discipleship: Encourage new converts to value physical life while prioritizing their identity as those “born of God” (1 John 5:1).

Doctrinal Considerations

• Total Depravity: Natural birth conveys a fallen disposition (Romans 5:12).
• Regeneration: Spiritual birth is solely the Spirit’s work and precedes genuine faith (John 1:12-13; Ephesians 2:4-5).
• Adoption: Those reborn are legally placed as sons and daughters in God’s household (Romans 8:15).
• Sanctification: New birth initiates a lifelong process of transformation, culminating in glorification (Philippians 1:6).

Related Concepts and Further Study References

Birthright (Genesis 25:31-34); Born Again (John 3); Firstborn (Colossians 1:18); Adoption (Romans 8); Children of God (1 John 3).