### 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.
TRV