### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kentyríōn**, represented by `{{G2760}}`, is of Latin origin and identifies a **centurion**, a captain of one hundred soldiers. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, placing it in a specific and significant context within the Gospel of Mark.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2760}}` appears exclusively in the account of Jesus' crucifixion. The **centurion** is presented as a key witness to the events at the cross. After seeing that Jesus so cried out and gave up the ghost, he is the one who declares, "Truly this man was the Son of God" [[Mark 15:39]]. This same **centurion** is later summoned by Pilate, who marvelled if Jesus were already dead, to confirm the death [[Mark 15:44]]. Upon receiving confirmation from the **centurion**, Pilate then gave the body to Joseph [[Mark 15:45]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the centurion's role:
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to see): The centurion’s testimony is based on what he **saw** at the cross [[Mark 15:39]]. This word denotes perception and knowledge, highlighting that his declaration was a conclusion based on observation.
* `{{G4091}}` **Pilâtos** (Pilate): The **centurion** reports directly to **Pilate**, the Roman governor [[Mark 15:44]]. This interaction establishes his official role and the weight his confirmation carries in the proceedings of the crucifixion.
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō** (to know): Pilate acted to release the body only after he **knew** the facts from the centurion [[Mark 15:45]]. This word implies a settled, absolute knowledge, showing the centurion's report was taken as a verifiable fact.
* `{{G230}}` **alēthōs** (truly): The centurion's confession begins with this word, meaning **truly** or "of a truth" [[Mark 15:39]]. It gives his statement the force of a solemn and genuine declaration.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2760}}` is centered on the identity of the witness at the cross.
* **Witness to Divinity:** The **centurion**, a Roman soldier and a Gentile, serves as a pivotal witness. His declaration that Jesus was the Son of God [[Mark 15:39]] is significant because it comes from an agent of the very empire that executed Him, not from a disciple.
* **Official Confirmation:** Theologically, the **centurion**'s role provides an official, non-partisan confirmation of Jesus' physical death [[Mark 15:44]]. This is crucial as it counters any claims that Jesus did not actually die on the cross, thereby affirming the foundation for the resurrection.
* **The Power of the Cross:** The manner of Jesus' death, specifically how he "cried out, and gave up the ghost" [[Mark 15:39]], is what moves the **centurion** to his confession. It demonstrates that the sight of the crucifixion itself had the power to reveal Jesus' true identity to an outsider.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2760}}` **kentyríōn** is used sparingly but with immense impact. The figure of the **centurion** is central to the climax of the crucifixion narrative in Mark's Gospel. He acts as both an official Roman authority who verifies the physical death of Jesus for the record [[Mark 15:44]] and, more importantly, as a witness who is moved by the event to confess the divine identity of the man he just saw die [[Mark 15:39]]. His declaration stands as a powerful testimony from an unexpected source.
TRV