### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **koustōdía**, represented by `{{G2892}}`, is of Latin origin and refers to a form of **"custody"**, specifically a Roman sentry or **watch**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, confined entirely to the account of Jesus' burial and resurrection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2892}}` is used exclusively in the Gospel of Matthew to describe the guard placed at Jesus' tomb. Following the crucifixion, Pilate grants the chief priests a **watch** to secure the sepulchre [[Matthew 27:65]]. These guards are then set at the tomb as part of the effort to make it sure, which also involved sealing the stone [[Matthew 27:66]]. After the resurrection, it is members of this same **watch** who go into the city to report the events to the chief priests [[Matthew 28:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used in the context of the actions surrounding the `{{G2892}}` **watch**:
* `{{G805}}` **asphalízō**: to render secure:--make fast (sure). This word describes the primary function of the **watch**, as they were commanded to "make it as **sure** as ye can" [[Matthew 27:65]] and they "made the sepulchre **sure**" [[Matthew 27:66]].
* `{{G4972}}` **sphragízō**: to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation... to keep secret, to attest:--(set a, set to) seal up, stop. This action was performed alongside the setting of the watch, as the officials were "**sealing** the stone" to secure the tomb [[Matthew 27:66]].
* `{{G4198}}` **poreúomai**: to traverse, i.e. travel (literally or figuratively; especially to remove (figuratively, die), live, etc.); --depart, go (away, forth, one's way, up), (make a, take a) journey, walk. This verb describes the movement of the officials who "**went**" to secure the tomb [[Matthew 27:66]] and the guards themselves "**going**" to report the events [[Matthew 28:11]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative role of `{{G2892}}` carries significant weight in the resurrection account.
* **Symbol of Human Authority:** The **watch** represents the highest level of human and Roman authority being used to prevent a predicted resurrection. Pilate's command to "make it as sure as ye can" [[Matthew 27:65]] underscores the official attempt to control the situation.
* **Unintended Witnesses:** Despite being placed to prevent any interference with the tomb, the **watch** becomes a primary witness to the power of the resurrection. It is "some of the **watch**" who report "all the things that were done" to the very authorities who posted them there [[Matthew 28:11]].
* **Validation of the Event:** The presence of a Roman guard, whose purpose was to secure the tomb [[Matthew 27:66]], serves to counter any claims that the disciples had stolen the body. Their subsequent report to the chief priests confirms that something extraordinary occurred that they were powerless to stop.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2892}}` is a very specific term for the Roman guard at Christ's tomb. While its usage is rare, its role is crucial. The **koustōdía** is not merely a detail but a key element that highlights the conflict between human authority and divine power. Its presence is meant to secure the tomb, but it ultimately serves to validate the truth of the resurrection, as the guards themselves become the first to report the event to the religious leaders.
TRV