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.
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.
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.
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.
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