The Greek word ekkomízō, represented by G1580, means to bear forth or carry out, specifically in the context of a burial. It is a very specific term, appearing only 2 times across 1 unique verse in the Bible, giving it a highly focused meaning.
The sole use of G1580 is found in a poignant narrative. As Jesus came nigh G1448 the gate G4439 of a city G4172, he encountered a funeral procession where a dead man G2348 was being carried out. The tragedy of the scene is emphasized by the fact that the deceased was the only G3439 son G5207 of his mother G3384, who herself was a widow G5503. This procession was a public event, as "much people" G2425 G3793 from the city were with her Luke 7:12.
Several related words from its single context enrich the meaning of G1580:
- G2348 thnḗskō (be dead, die): This word describes the state of the person being carried out. It establishes the finality of the situation that G1580 addresses, whether describing someone literally dead John 11:44 or figuratively, like one who lives in pleasure 1 Timothy 5:6.
- G4439 pýlē (gate): The action of being carried out occurs at the city gate. This location serves as a threshold, a common biblical motif seen in the "strait gate" leading to life Matthew 7:13 and the "gates of hell" Matthew 16:18.
- G5503 chḗra (widow): The grief of the widow is central to the scene. The special attention given to widows in scripture underscores the compassion shown in this moment, a theme reflected in exhortations to visit widows in their affliction James 1:27.
The theological weight of G1580 comes entirely from its context.
- A Portrait of Hopelessness: The act to carry out the dead son of a widow represents a moment of utter human finality and despair. The combination of a widow G5503 and her only G3439 son's death paints a picture of complete loss Luke 7:12.
- Community in Grief: The procession is not a private affair; "much people of the city" G3793 are with G4862 the mother. This highlights that the act of burial, signified by G1580, is a communal expression of sorrow.
- The Setting for Divine Intervention: The act of being carried out of the city gate is precisely where human sorrow intersects with divine power. It marks a physical and symbolic boundary where Jesus meets the procession, turning a scene of death into a demonstration of life.
In summary, G1580 is a specific word whose significance is derived from its powerful, singular use in scripture. It means more than simply moving a body; it depicts the final, communal act of bearing the dead to burial. This action sets the stage for one of Jesus's miracles, illustrating how a moment of profound human grief becomes the backdrop for a display of divine compassion and authority over death.
TRV