### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **thnḗskō**, represented by `{{G2348}}`, is a strengthened term used to signify **to die** or **be dead**. It appears 15 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible. This word is primarily used to describe the state of physical death, but it also carries a significant figurative meaning related to spiritual conditions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2348}}` is frequently used to establish the reality of physical death, often immediately before a demonstration of divine power. For example, Lazarus is repeatedly described as "he that was **dead**" ([[John 11:39]], [[John 11:44]]) to emphasize the miracle of his resurrection. Similarly, Jairus's daughter is declared **dead** [[Luke 8:49]] and a widow's son is being carried out as a **dead man** [[Luke 7:12]] before Jesus intervenes. The word also appears in a figurative sense, as in the warning that she who "liveth in pleasure is **dead** while she liveth" [[1 Timothy 5:6]], contrasting physical life with a state of spiritual death.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the context and meaning of `{{G2348}}`:
* `{{G599}}` **apothnḗskō** (to die off): A closely related term for dying. Pilate questioned if Jesus had been **dead** for any while, using this word in his inquiry [[Mark 15:44]].
* `{{G3498}}` **nekrós** (dead): Often used as a noun for "the dead," this word appears in conjunction with `{{G2348}}` when describing resurrection. Jesus raised Lazarus, who "had been **dead**" `{{G2348}}`, from the **dead** `{{G3498}}` [[John 12:1]].
* `{{G1453}}` **egeírō** (to waken, rouse, raise): This word is a direct antonym, signifying resurrection. Jesus **raised** `{{G1453}}` Lazarus, who had been **dead** `{{G2348}}` [[John 12:1]]. An angel also commanded Joseph to **arise** `{{G1453}}` because those who sought Jesus' life were **dead** `{{G2348}}` [[Matthew 2:20]].
* `{{G2198}}` **záō** (to live): This word provides a stark contrast to `{{G2348}}`. Paul affirmed that Jesus, "which was **dead**" `{{G2348}}`, was now affirmed "to be alive" `{{G2198}}` [[Acts 25:19]]. The two words are also juxtaposed to describe a person who is spiritually **dead** `{{G2348}}` while physically "she liveth" `{{G2198}}` [[1 Timothy 5:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2348}}` is significant, highlighting key scriptural themes.
* **The Finality of Death:** The word is used to establish the undeniable and irreversible nature of physical death from a human perspective. In the case of Lazarus, his state of being **dead** `{{G2348}}` is confirmed when Martha notes that "he stinketh" [[John 11:39]], setting the stage for a miracle that defies natural laws.
* **Christ's Authority Over Death:** Occurrences of `{{G2348}}` often precede an act of Christ that demonstrates his supreme power. The raising of the **dead** man at Nain [[Luke 7:12]] and the revival of Lazarus [[John 11:44]] use this word to frame death as an enemy that Christ conquers.
* **Spiritual Death:** The term is expanded to a metaphorical level to describe a state of separation from God. The assertion that one living for pleasure is **dead** [[1 Timothy 5:6]] establishes a biblical concept of being spiritually lifeless despite being physically alive.
* **Divine Judgment:** `{{G2348}}` is used to announce the fate of those who oppose God's purposes. The angel's report that King Herod and his agents "are **dead**" [[Matthew 2:20]] who sought the life `{{G5590}}` of Jesus demonstrates God's sovereignty and protection over His plan of salvation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2348}}` is a crucial term that defines the condition of being **dead**, both literally and figuratively. It serves to establish the grim reality of human mortality, thereby magnifying the power of Christ who brings resurrection and life. From the physical state of Lazarus in the tomb to the spiritual state of one lost in worldly pleasure, **thnḗskō** consistently points to a condition that only divine intervention can overcome.
TRV