ἐνταφιασμός

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word entaphiasmós, represented by G1780, means burying and refers to the preparation for interment. It is a specific term that appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses, both in the context of Jesus's anointing before his death.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, G1780 is used exclusively to describe the purpose behind the anointing of Jesus by a woman. In Mark, Jesus states, "she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying" Mark 14:8, framing her action as a preparation for his death. Similarly, in John's account, Jesus defends the woman's act by saying, "against the day of my burying hath she kept this" John 12:7, giving the event a profound and prophetic significance.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the meaning of this preparatory act:

• G3462 myrízō (to apply (perfumed) unguent to:--anoint): This word describes the specific action performed in preparation for the burying, as the woman came "to anoint my body" Mark 14:8.
• G4983 sōma (the body): This term identifies the object of the anointing and burying. The preparation was for Jesus's physical body Mark 14:8, emphasizing the reality of his coming death and burial.
• G5083 tēréō (to guard... to keep): In John's account, this word highlights the intentionality of the act, as Jesus explains that the woman had kept the costly ointment specifically for the day of his burying John 12:7.
• G4160 poiéō (to make or do): Jesus affirms the woman's action by stating, "She hath done what she could" Mark 14:8, validating her deed as a complete and meaningful act of service.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G1780 is concentrated in the moments leading up to Christ's crucifixion.

• Prophetic Devotion: The anointing for burying was an act of profound devotion that also served as a prophecy of Jesus's imminent death. Jesus himself confirmed its purpose in both accounts (Mark 14:8, John 12:7).
• The Sanctity of Christ's Body: The specific mention of preparing Jesus's body G4983 for burial underscores the physical nature of his sacrifice. The act of anointing honors the body that would bear the sins of many 1 Peter 2:24.
• Fulfillment of Purpose: The use of kept G5083 suggests that the anointing was not a spontaneous or wasted gesture, but an act reserved for its proper time, fulfilling a unique role in the events of the passion John 12:7.

Summary

In summary, G1780 is a focused and significant term. While it appears only twice, its use in the Gospels captures a pivotal moment of worship and foresight. It defines an act of devotion not as an afterthought, but as a deliberate preparation for the burying of Jesus's body, giving honor to his physical sacrifice before it occurred.