The Greek word entylíssō, represented by G1794, means to entwine or wind up in something. Its definition is to "wrap in (together)". It is a very specific term, appearing only 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, each instance relating to the burial of Jesus Christ.
In the biblical narrative, G1794 is used exclusively to describe the preparation of Christ's body for burial and the state of the burial cloths after His resurrection. Joseph of Arimathea wrapped the body in a clean linen cloth before placing it in the tomb Matthew 27:59. Similarly, after taking the body down from the cross, he wrapped it in linen and laid it in a sepulchre Luke 23:53. The final use of the word describes the napkin from Jesus' head, which was found not with the other linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself in the empty tomb John 20:7.
Several related words provide context for the act of burial and the scene at the tomb:
- G4616 sindṓn (linen cloth): This refers to the byssos or bleached linen used for the burial wrappings. Joseph purchased and wrapped Jesus' body in this material Matthew 27:59.
- G4676 soudárion (napkin): This sweat-cloth was used to bind the face of a corpse. In the empty tomb, this napkin was found wrapped by itself, separate from the other linens John 20:7.
- G3418 mnēma (sepulchre, tomb): This is the burial-place where the wrapped body was laid. The body of Jesus was placed in a sepulchre where no one had previously been laid Luke 23:53.
The theological weight of G1794 is tied directly to the passion and resurrection of Christ.
- Honorable Burial: The use of the word to describe Joseph's actions shows the care and respect given to Jesus' body. He wrapped the body in a clean linen cloth, an act of devotion Matthew 27:59.
- Evidence of Resurrection: The description of the napkin as wrapped together by itself provides crucial evidence of an orderly, divine event. It suggests the cloths were not hastily removed by thieves but left behind in a deliberate manner John 20:7.
- Narrative Connection: This single word links the act of burial to the discovery at the empty tomb. The same action of "wrapping" performed by Joseph is noted in the state of the grave clothes, providing a powerful testament to the resurrection narrative.
In summary, G1794 is a precise and meaningful term within the gospel accounts. While its usage is rare, its application is focused entirely on the burial of Jesus. It conveys both the honor of Christ's interment and the profound, orderly mystery of His resurrection, showing how a specific action word can frame one of the most significant events in scripture.
TRV