### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **laxeutós**, represented by `{{G2991}}`, means **hewn in stone** or rock-quarried. It is derived from a compound of terms related to stone and scraping. This highly specific word appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, highlighting a singular, significant moment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G2991}}` is found in the account of Jesus's burial. After the crucifixion, the body was taken down from the cross, wrapped in linen `{{G4616}}`, and laid in a sepulchre. The text specifies that this was "a sepulchre that was **hewn in stone**" [[Luke 23:53]]. This detail emphasizes the nature of the tomb, not as a simple grave, but as a chamber carved directly out of solid rock, a place of permanence and security.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context help clarify the scene:
* `{{G3418}}` **mnēma** (sepulchre, tomb): This is the noun that `{{G2991}}` modifies. The burial place is explicitly identified as a **sepulchre**, and its specific quality is that it was **hewn in stone** [[Luke 23:53]].
* `{{G1794}}` **entylíssō** (to entwine, i.e. wind up in): This verb describes the action of wrapping the body in linen immediately before it was placed in the rock-quarried tomb, showing the deliberate care taken in the burial process [[Luke 23:53]].
* `{{G2749}}` **keîmai** (to lie outstretched... lay, lie): This word is used to confirm the unique status of the tomb, noting that no one had ever before been **laid** within it [[Luke 23:53]], adding to its significance.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2991}}` comes from its specific context in the burial narrative.
* **A Unique Resting Place:** The tomb is described as both **hewn in stone** `{{G2991}}` and a place "wherein never man before was laid" [[Luke 23:53]]. This combination underscores the pure and singular nature of the burial, set apart from all others.
* **Intentional Honor:** The act of placing the body in a permanent, rock-quarried tomb, after being carefully wrapped `{{G1794}}`, demonstrates purpose and honor. It was not a hasty or common burial, but one carried out with intention.
* **The Solidity of the Tomb:** Describing the sepulchre as carved from rock emphasizes its security and immovability. This solid reality provides a profound backdrop for the scriptural truth that He "must rise again from the dead" [[John 20:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2991}}` is a rare word that provides a crucial detail in the biblical narrative. Though used only once, **laxeutós** defines the tomb of Christ as a permanent chamber cut from solid rock. This detail, coupled with the fact that the tomb was new and unused, elevates the significance of the burial, highlighting its unique honor and setting the stage for the events that would follow.
TRV