I’m not talking about the fish, but rather Jesus’ ancestor of the same name—Salmon. And no, the name “salmon” for the fish has no connection to the Hebrew name Salmon (שַׂלְמוֹן), which appears in the Bible as a significant figure in the lineage of Jesus.
The fish’s name originates from the Latin word salmo, related to salire (to leap), reflecting the fish’s behavior. The Hebrew name Salmon, on the other hand, is believed to mean “garment,” “mantle,” or possibly “peaceful” or “clothed.” Salmon, the husband of Rahab, holds a unique place in biblical history, standing as a bridge between the story of God’s redemption in the Old Testament and the fulfillment of His promises in Jesus Christ.
Salmon – Husband of Rahab (Matthew 1:5; Ruth 4:21)
Among Jesus’ ancestors, we find Salmon and Rahab—a couple whose union reveals God’s heart for redemption and inclusivity. Rahab, once a Canaanite prostitute in Jericho, and Salmon, a respected Israelite, demonstrate the miracle of God’s grace and how He works through unlikely people to fulfill His divine plan.
The Gift of Redemption
Rahab’s past didn’t disqualify her from a place in God’s family; instead, her faith redefined her. When she sheltered the Israelite spies, Rahab declared her belief in the God of Israel. Because of her faith, she and her family were saved (Joshua 2:11). Later, Rahab married Salmon, becoming part of Israel and the mother of Boaz—a man of noble character and the great-grandfather of King David. This lineage ultimately led to Jesus, the Savior of the world.
During this Christmas season, we remember that Jesus came through a family line filled with people in need of grace. Rahab and Salmon’s story illustrates how God’s love transcends human barriers—overcoming shame, cultural differences, and painful histories. God invites each of us into His family, just as He invited Rahab, transforming our stories of brokenness into legacies of hope.
A Picture of Christ’s Love
In marrying Rahab, Salmon not only accepted her past but actively redeemed it, bringing her into the family of Israel and giving her a place of honor in the lineage of the Messiah. Salmon’s love provides a glimpse of Christ’s love for His church—choosing us despite our flaws and redeeming us through His grace. Just as Salmon welcomed Rahab and gave her a new identity, Jesus stepped out of heaven to redeem and embrace His bride, the church, uniting us to Himself.
This Christmas, we celebrate the gift of a Savior who sees beyond our past. Through His sacrificial love, He invites us into His eternal family and transforms our stories for His glory. Rahab and Salmon’s story reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace, and in Christ, our brokenness is turned into beauty. Let this Christmas be a celebration of the redemption and hope that Jesus, our Savior, brings into our lives.