### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kopetós**, represented by `{{G2870}}`, denotes a specific type of mourning, often expressed physically by beating the breast, and is translated as **lamentation**. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 verse in the New Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G2870}}` is found in the narrative following the stoning of Stephen. The verse states that "devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great **lamentation** over him" [[Acts 8:2]]. This occurrence sets the term in a context of deep, communal sorrow for a prominent and faithful figure. The act of **lamentation** is performed by devout men `{{G435}}` and is described as "great" `{{G3173}}`, underscoring the intensity of the grief felt by the early church at the loss of its first martyr.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage help to build the context surrounding this profound expression of grief:
* `{{G2126}}` **eulabḗs** (devout): This term describes the character of the men who buried Stephen. It signifies a pious and religiously circumspect person, as seen in the description of Simeon [[Luke 2:25]].
* `{{G3173}}` **mégas** (great): This adjective, meaning big or great, directly modifies the **lamentation**, emphasizing its scale and emotional depth [[Acts 8:2]].
* `{{G4792}}` **synkomízō** (carry): Defined as to convey or bear away in company with others, this word describes the action of bringing Stephen to his burial, an act performed alongside the **lamentation** [[Acts 8:2]].
* `{{G4736}}` **Stéphanos** (Stephen): The Christian for whom the **lamentation** was made. He is described as a man "full of faith and power" [[Acts 6:8]] who was stoned by his accusers [[Acts 7:59]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2870}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **Honoring Martyrdom:** The "great **lamentation**" for Stephen demonstrates the early church’s profound respect for those who died for their faith. It was an act of honor for the first Christian martyr.
* **Righteous Grief:** The performance of this **lamentation** by "devout men" `{{G2126}}` validates the expression of deep sorrow as a righteous and appropriate response to loss within the community of believers.
* **Public Witness:** By making a great **lamentation**, these men publicly identified with Stephen and his faith, even in the face of the persecution that led to his death. This act of grief was also an act of courage.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G2870}}` appears only once, its meaning is significant. It is not a word for simple sadness but for a deep, expressive, and powerful **lamentation**. Its use in [[Acts 8:2]] immortalizes the moment the early church mourned its first martyr, Stephen, capturing a poignant blend of sorrow, honor, and faithful courage.
TRV