### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **énkyos**, represented by `{{G1471}}`, is a descriptive term for being **pregnant**. Its definition, derived from terms meaning "swelling inside," is explicitly translated as "great with child." This highly specific word is notable for its rarity, appearing just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking a singular, pivotal moment in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G1471}}` occurs in the nativity narrative of Luke's Gospel. The verse describes Mary, who, while **espoused** to Joseph, traveled to Bethlehem to be registered for a census. In this context, the scripture states she was "being **great with child**" [[Luke 2:5]]. The word points directly to the physical reality of her advanced pregnancy during this journey, anchoring the event in a tangible, human experience.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its single verse of use help to frame the context of this term:
* `{{G583}}` **apográphō** (to write off (a copy or list), i.e. enrol:--tax, write): This word establishes the historical setting, indicating the journey was undertaken so that Joseph and Mary could be **taxed** as part of a decree from Caesar Augustus [[Luke 2:1]].
* `{{G3423}}` **mnēsteúō** (to give a souvenir (engagement present), i.e. betroth:--espouse): This term clarifies Mary's legal status as Joseph's **espoused** wife, a relationship also mentioned in Matthew's account of the birth of Jesus [[Matthew 1:18]].
* `{{G1135}}` **gynḗ** (a woman; specially, a wife:--wife, woman): This identifies Mary in her role as Joseph's **wife** [[Luke 2:5]]. The term is used throughout scripture to refer to a **woman** or **wife**, such as in the account of Elisabeth [[Luke 1:13]].
* `{{G4862}}` **sýn** (a primary preposition denoting union; with or together): This preposition emphasizes the close companionship of Mary and Joseph, noting Joseph went to be taxed **with** Mary, signifying a deep association [[Luke 2:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1471}}` is derived entirely from its pivotal context in the incarnation story.
* **The Physicality of the Incarnation:** The word **énkyos** highlights the literal, physical reality of Jesus's gestation. It affirms that God's Son was truly "made of a **woman**" [[Galatians 4:4]], and did not merely appear as a human.
* **The Miraculous Conception:** This term is applied to Mary, who was **espoused** to Joseph. Matthew's gospel clarifies that before they were formally united, "she was found with child of the Holy Ghost" [[Matthew 1:18]]. Thus, her state of being **great with child** is presented as a fulfillment of a divine miracle.
* **Divine Purpose in History:** Mary's pregnancy, described by `{{G1471}}`, occurs amid the backdrop of a Roman census decree [[Luke 2:5]]. This demonstrates God's sovereign plan unfolding within the confines of human history and government mandates.
### Summary
In summary, while **énkyos** is an exceptionally rare word, its single appearance is profoundly significant. It moves beyond a simple biological description to serve as a marker for the physical reality of the Incarnation. By describing Mary as "great with child" in the specific historical context of the journey to Bethlehem, `{{G1471}}` anchors the central miracle of the Christian faith in a tangible, historical, and deeply human moment.
TRV