### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G1750 (ενειλέω, *eneiléō*) carries the core meaning "to enwrap," "to roll up in," or "to fold around." Its etymology is illuminating, deriving from the prefix ἐν (en), meaning "in" or "within," and the base of εἱλίσσω (heilissō), which means "to roll," "to coil," or "to wind around." Thus, eneiléō specifically denotes the action of covering or enclosing something by winding material around it, often with the implication of thoroughness or tightness. While its semantic range is narrow due to its singular New Testament occurrence, it points to a deliberate and complete act of covering, distinct from merely placing a cloth over an object.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G1750 (ενειλέω) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Mark:
* [[Mark 15:46]]: "And Joseph bought a linen cloth, and taking him down, wrapped him in the linen cloth and laid him in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock. And he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb."
In this sole instance, eneiléō describes the action of Joseph of Arimathea as he "wrapped" (ἐνειλησεν) the body of Jesus in a linen cloth (σινδών). The context is the immediate aftermath of Jesus' crucifixion, as His body is prepared for burial. This act of wrapping was a customary practice for the deceased, preparing the body for entombment. The choice of eneiléō emphasizes the careful and complete covering of the body, a final act of reverence and dignity afforded to the dead, even in the haste and somber circumstances following a crucifixion. It underscores the reality of Jesus' physical death and the proper, if expedited, observance of burial rites by a devoted, albeit previously secret, disciple.
### Related Words & Concepts
The action described by G1750 (ενειλέω) is closely associated with several related words and concepts within the biblical narrative, particularly concerning burial practices:
* σινδών (sindōn): The "linen cloth" or "shroud" mentioned in [[Mark 15:46]] that Jesus' body was wrapped in. This term appears elsewhere in the Gospels in contexts related to Jesus' burial (e.g., [[Matthew 27:59]], [[Luke 23:53]]).
* ὀθόνιον (othonion): "Linen cloths" or "bandages," often used to describe the grave clothes found in Jesus' empty tomb ([[John 20:5-7]], [[Luke 24:12]]). While eneiléō describes the initial wrapping, othonion often refers to the subsequent state or type of grave clothes.
* ἐνταφιάζω (entaphiazō): "To prepare for burial," or "to embalm." This broader verb encompasses the entire process of preparing a body for entombment, of which the act of wrapping (eneiléō) would be a part.
* The concept of burial customs: Ancient Jewish and Roman societies had specific rituals for handling the deceased, which included washing, anointing, and wrapping the body before placing it in a tomb. The use of eneiléō points to the faithful adherence to these customs, even for a condemned man.
* The concept of reverence for the dead: Joseph's act, using eneiléō, demonstrates a profound respect for Jesus' body, contrasting sharply with the brutality of the crucifixion.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of G1750 (ενειλέω) in [[Mark 15:46]] carries profound theological weight, as it describes a pivotal moment in the salvific narrative: the burial of Christ.
1. **Reality of Christ's Death:** The act of wrapping Jesus' body confirms the undeniable reality of His death. He was not merely unconscious or in a coma; His lifeless body required preparation for burial, underscoring the completeness of His sacrifice.
2. **Preparation for Resurrection:** The careful wrapping of Jesus' body and its placement in the tomb sets the stage for the empty tomb and the subsequent resurrection. The very act of being "enwrapped" implies a future "unwrapping" – a divine reversal of death's dominion. The grave clothes, though left behind, bear silent witness to the body that was once contained within them, yet is now glorified.
3. **Human Reverence and Faith:** Joseph of Arimathea's courageous act of taking Jesus' body and wrapping it demonstrates a deep reverence and a quiet, yet powerful, faith. Despite the danger and shame associated with Jesus' crucifixion, Joseph provides a dignified burial, fulfilling prophecy and demonstrating the persistence of devotion even in the darkest hour. This act of humble service, using a common linen cloth, stands in stark contrast to the divine glory that would soon burst forth.
4. **Continuity of Incarnation:** Even in death, the Incarnation remains real. The body that was born, lived, taught, suffered, and died, was a real, physical body, requiring the same earthly preparations for burial as any other human body.
### Summary
The Greek verb G1750 (ενειλέω, *eneiléō*) signifies "to enwrap" or "to roll up in." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Mark 15:46]] describes Joseph of Arimathea's careful act of wrapping Jesus' body in a linen cloth for burial. This single usage is highly significant, underscoring the reality of Christ's death and the reverent, customary preparation of His body for the tomb. Theologically, this act of wrapping serves as a crucial bridge between the crucifixion and the resurrection, affirming the physical reality of Jesus' death while simultaneously setting the stage for His glorious triumph over death, where the wrapped grave clothes would later be found empty, testifying to His divine power. It is an act of humble human devotion preceding a divine miracle.
TRV