### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thánatos**, represented by `{{G2288}}`, is the primary term for **death**. It appears 119 times in 106 unique verses, indicating its crucial role in the New Testament. The word encompasses both literal, physical death and a figurative, spiritual state of separation or destruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2288}}` is presented as the direct consequence of **sin** `{{G266}}`, with the declaration that "the wages of sin is **death**" [[Romans 6:23]]. This principle is established from the entry of sin into the world, which brought **death** with it [[Romans 5:12]]. The term is central to Christ's redemptive work, as he became obedient unto **death**, even the **death** of the cross [[Philippians 2:8]] to reconcile enemies `{{G2190}}` to God [[Romans 5:10]]. Figuratively, it describes a state of spiritual separation, where to be carnally minded is **death** [[Romans 8:6]] and to not love the brethren is to abide in **death** [[1 John 3:14]]. The concept culminates in the "second **death**," the ultimate fate for the unrepentant in the lake of fire [[Revelation 21:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the meaning of **death**:
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin): This word identifies the direct cause of death. Scripture states that the **sting** `{{G2759}}` of **death** is **sin** [[1 Corinthians 15:56]], and that **sin** entered the world, and **death** by **sin** [[Romans 5:12]].
* `{{G2222}}` **zōḗ** (life): As the direct antithesis to **death**, this term is crucial for understanding salvation. Believers pass from **death** unto **life** [[John 5:24]], and while the wages of sin is **death**, the gift of God is eternal **life** [[Romans 6:23]].
* `{{G2289}}` **thanatóō** (to kill): This verb, derived from `{{G2288}}`, describes the act of causing death. It is used in prophecies where brother shall deliver up brother to **death**, and parents will **cause** their children **to be put to death** [[Matthew 10:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2288}}` is immense and can be seen in several key themes:
* **Penalty for Sin:** `{{G2288}}` establishes the ultimate consequence of transgression. It is the end result of lust conceiving and bringing forth sin [[James 1:15]], and the "wages" earned for a life of sin [[Romans 6:23]]. This makes **death** a judicial sentence for unrighteousness [[Romans 1:32]].
* **An Enemy Defeated by Christ:** Christ's work is presented as a direct confrontation with **death**. Through his own **death**, he destroyed the one who had the power of **death**, the devil [[Hebrews 2:14]]. He has "abolished **death**" [[2 Timothy 1:10]] and holds the keys of **hell** `{{G86}}` and of **death** [[Revelation 1:18]]. Ultimately, **death** is described as the last **enemy** `{{G2190}}` to be destroyed [[1 Corinthians 15:26]].
* **Spiritual Condition:** Beyond physical cessation, `{{G2288}}` signifies a state of spiritual darkness and separation. People can sit in the "shadow of **death**" [[Luke 1:79]] and exist in a state of **bondage** `{{G1397}}` through the fear of **death** [[Hebrews 2:15]]. Salvation is framed as a passage from this state of **death** to one of **life** `{{G2222}}` [[1 John 3:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2288}}` is far more than a word for the end of physical life. It is a cornerstone of New Testament theology, representing the inevitable outcome of **sin** `{{G266}}`, a state of spiritual alienation, and the ultimate enemy that Christ conquered through His own sacrifice and **resurrection** `{{G386}}`. The concept of **thánatos** illustrates the gravity of the human condition and illuminates the profound nature of the eternal **life** `{{G2222}}` offered through Christ.
TRV