### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **keîmai**, represented by `{{G2749}}`, is a primary verb meaning **to lie outstretched**, either in a literal or figurative sense. Its various translations include "be appointed," "laid up," "made," "set," "lay," and "lie." It appears **27 times** across **26 unique verses** in the Bible and is noted for its relationship to the word `{{G5087}}` *títhēmi*, which means to place something in a position.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2749}}` is used to describe a state of being or a fixed position. It can refer to a literal, physical position, such as the infant Jesus **lying** in a manger [[Luke 2:12]], the linen clothes **lying** in the empty tomb [[John 20:5]], or the body of Jesus which **had lain** there [[John 20:12]]. Figuratively, it denotes an established state or purpose. A city that **is set** on a hill cannot be hidden [[Matthew 5:14]], and the apostle Paul declares he **am set** for the defense of the gospel [[Philippians 1:17]]. It is also used to describe a state of judgment, where an axe **is laid** to the root of the trees [[Matthew 3:10]], and a pervasive spiritual condition, as the whole world **lieth** in wickedness [[1 John 5:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G2749}}` through context and contrast:
* `{{G5087}}` **títhēmi** (to place): This word is explicitly compared to *keîmai*. While *títhēmi* is the active placement of something, *keîmai* is the resulting state of being laid down. This relationship is seen in [[1 Corinthians 3:11]], which states no one can **lay** `{{G5087}}` a foundation other than the one that **is laid** `{{G2749}}`.
* `{{G1453}}` **egeírō** (to waken, rouse, raise): This word provides a direct contrast to the stillness implied by *keîmai*. In the account of the resurrection, the angel proclaims that Jesus **is risen** `{{G1453}}` and invites the women to see the place where the Lord **lay** `{{G2749}}` [[Matthew 28:6]].
* `{{G2521}}` **káthēmai** (to sit down; to remain, reside): This word describes a different posture. In Revelation, a throne **was set** `{{G2749}}` in heaven, and one **sat** `{{G2521}}` on it, distinguishing between the placement of the throne and the action of the one upon it [[Revelation 4:2]].
* `{{G1581}}` **ekkóptō** (to exscind... cut down): This term often follows *keîmai* to show consequence. When the axe **is laid** `{{G2749}}` to the root of a tree, that tree is then **hewn down** `{{G1581}}` and cast into the fire [[Luke 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2749}}` is centered on the concepts of divine appointment, established reality, and ultimate states of being.
* **Divine Appointment:** The word is used to express a divinely ordained purpose or destiny. Jesus **is set** for the fall and rising of many in Israel [[Luke 2:34]], and believers **are appointed** to face afflictions [[1 Thessalonians 3:3]], indicating a pre-determined position within God's plan.
* **Established Foundation:** *Keîmai* signifies a fixed, unalterable truth. Christ is the foundation that **is laid** [[1 Corinthians 3:11]], which cannot be replaced. Similarly, the law **is made** not for the righteous but for the lawless, establishing it as a fixed standard [[1 Timothy 1:9]].
* **The State of Rest and Death:** The word is consistently used to describe the position of a body after death, such as that of Lazarus [[John 11:41]] and Jesus [[Luke 23:53]]. This connects the term to the finality and stillness of the grave, which precedes the resurrection.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2749}}` conveys much more than simply lying down. It describes a condition of being placed or set, whether physically or figuratively. From the infant Jesus **lying** in a manger to the foundational truth of the gospel which **is laid**, the word signifies a state of position, condition, and divine appointment. It highlights the difference between a passive, established state and the active forces of rising, sitting, or being cut down, making it a crucial term for understanding position and purpose in scripture.
TRV