The Greek word gamískō, represented by G1061, is derived from γάμος and carries the specific meaning of espousing a daughter to a husband, or to give in marriage. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, highlighting its very particular application.
The sole use of G1061 is found in a discussion regarding the nature of the resurrection. In Mark 12:25, it is used to explain that the social institutions of earthly life will not carry over into the afterlife. The verse states, "For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage; but are as the angels which are in heaven." Here, G1061 specifies the act of being given into a marital union, a practice that will cease in the resurrected state.
Several related words provide a broader context for the concept of marriage and reasoning in scripture:
- G1060 gaméō (to wed): This is the more general term for marrying and is used for either sex. It appears alongside G1061 in Mark 12:25 to cover the complete act of marriage. It is also used in instructions concerning marriage and divorce Matthew 19:9 and in describing normal life before the flood Matthew 24:38.
- G1063 gár (for, because): This particle is used to assign a reason for a statement. It is the first word in Mark 12:25, setting up the explanation of why there is no marriage in heaven. This word is foundational in biblical arguments, famously introducing the reason for God's gift of His Son in John 3:16.
The theological weight of G1061 is concentrated in its single appearance, providing a key insight into eschatology.
- Earthly vs. Heavenly Institutions: The use of G1061 explicitly defines the act of being given in marriage as an earthly ordinance, designed for this life and not for the age to come.
- Nature of the Resurrection: Its usage in Mark 12:25 helps clarify that life after the resurrection will be fundamentally different from our current existence. The comparison to angels indicates a new state of being where procreation and family lineage, the purposes of marriage, are no longer relevant.
- Completeness of the Concept: Paired with G1060 "to marry," the use of G1061 "to be given in marriage" provides a complete picture of the human marital process, emphasizing that this entire structure is part of the present world that is passing away.
In summary, G1061 is a precise and rare term whose significance comes from its singular, powerful use. In Mark 12:25, gamískō serves to draw a sharp line between our current life and the life of the resurrection, illustrating that the fundamental social contract of marriage is a temporary institution created for our time on earth.
TRV