### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **entaphiázō**, represented by `{{G1779}}`, refers to the act of preparing a body for interment. Its definition is "to inswathe with cerements for interment:--bury." It is a specific term derived from a compound of ἐν and τάφος. This word is rare, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in scripture, both instances relating to the burial of Jesus.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1779}}` is used in two key moments surrounding the death of Christ. In [[Matthew 26:12]], a woman anoints Jesus with **ointment** `{{G3464}}`, an act which He clarifies was done for His **burial**. The second occurrence is in [[John 19:40]], where, following the crucifixion, the **body** `{{G4983}}` of Jesus is taken and wound in **linen clothes** `{{G3608}}` with **spices** `{{G759}}`. This verse explicitly identifies the procedure as "the manner of the **Jews** `{{G2453}}` is to **bury**."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential to understanding the context of `{{G1779}}`:
* `{{G3464}}` **mýron** (perfumed oil): This **ointment** is the substance poured on Jesus's **body** `{{G4983}}` as a preparatory act for His burial [[Matthew 26:12]].
* `{{G3608}}` **othónion** (a linen bandage): These **linen clothes** were the material used to **wound** `{{G1210}}` the body of Jesus as part of the burial custom described in [[John 19:40]].
* `{{G759}}` **árōma** (an aromatic): These **spices** were used along with the linen clothes to prepare the body for interment, following Jewish custom [[John 19:40]].
* `{{G4983}}` **sōma** (the body): This term for **body** is central to both accounts, as it is the object of the actions of anointing and wrapping for burial ([[Matthew 26:12]], [[John 19:40]]).
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G1779}}` is revealed in its direct application to the person of Jesus.
* **An Act of Preparation:** The use in [[Matthew 26:12]] links an act of devotion—pouring **ointment** `{{G3464}}`—directly to the necessary preparation for Jesus's death and **burial**.
* **A Cultural Rite:** The account in [[John 19:40]] establishes the process as a cultural norm, describing the wrapping of the **body** `{{G4983}}` with **spices** `{{G759}}` and **linen clothes** `{{G3608}}` as "the manner of the **Jews** `{{G2453}}`."
* **The Physical Process:** The word details a hands-on, physical action. It is not merely about interment but about the careful process of swathing the body, as when Jesus's body was **wound** `{{G1210}}` in cloths for his burial [[John 19:40]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1779}}` is a precise term for the act of preparing a body for burial. Although used only twice, its context is of ultimate importance, detailing the preparation of Jesus's own **body** `{{G4983}}`. It encompasses both an anointing with **ointment** `{{G3464}}` as a pre-emptive act and the customary wrapping with **linen clothes** `{{G3608}}` and **spices** `{{G759}}`, marking a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative.
TRV