### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word λάρυγξ (lárynx, `{{G2995}}`) primarily denotes the anatomical "throat" or "larynx." Its derivation is noted as uncertain, yet its meaning is consistently understood in ancient Greek as the upper part of the windpipe, the vocal organ, or more broadly, the gullet. It refers to the physical conduit for breath, food, and sound. While its semantic range is narrow, referring specifically to this bodily organ, its significance in biblical context extends to the functions associated with it, particularly speech.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term λάρυγξ (lárynx, `{{G2995}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Apostle Paul's epistle to the Romans:
* [[Romans 3:13]]: "Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips."
In this verse, Paul is quoting from the Old Testament, specifically drawing from [[Psalm 5:9]] (LXX) and other passages (like [[Psalm 140:3]] and [[Psalm 10:7]]) to paint a comprehensive picture of human sinfulness. The phrase "Their throat is an open sepulchre" is a vivid and disturbing metaphor. A sepulchre, or grave, is a place of death, decay, and putrefaction. An "open" sepulchre suggests a constant emanation of foulness, corruption, and death. By attributing this characteristic to the human "throat," Paul implicates the organ directly involved in speech. The implication is that what proceeds from the throat—words, breath, expressions—is inherently corrupt and deadly, reflecting the inner spiritual decay of humanity. This is immediately followed by references to deceitful tongues and poisonous lips, further emphasizing the destructive nature of human communication when separated from God.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate λάρυγξ (lárynx, `{{G2995}}`), it is helpful to consider related terms and concepts:
* **`{{G1199}}` (glōssa)**: "Tongue," which appears alongside λάρυγξ in [[Romans 3:13]], highlighting the instruments of speech and deceit.
* **`{{G4750}}` (stoma)**: "Mouth," a broader term often used to represent speech and utterance in general.
* **`{{G5457}}` (phōnē)**: "Voice" or "sound," referring to the output generated by the throat and vocal cords.
* **`{{H1627}}` (garon)**: The primary Hebrew word for "throat," found in [[Psalm 5:9]], which is the source of Paul's quotation in [[Romans 3:13]].
* **`{{H5315}}` (nephesh)**: "Soul," "life," or "person," sometimes associated with the throat or breath as the seat of life.
The concept of speech, its origin in the heart, and its capacity for both good and evil is a pervasive theme in Scripture. The throat, as the physical conduit for speech, becomes a symbol of the internal state of a person.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, the theological significance of λάρυγξ (lárynx, `{{G2995}}`) in [[Romans 3:13]] is profound. It is strategically placed within Paul's foundational argument concerning the universal sinfulness of humanity before God.
1. **Symbol of Total Depravity**: The "open sepulchre" metaphor applied to the throat underscores the pervasive nature of human sin. It suggests that the very source of human expression, the passageway for words and breath, is tainted by spiritual death and decay. This is not merely about occasional bad words, but about a fundamental corruption emanating from within.
2. **Conduit for Sinful Expression**: The throat, as the instrument of speech, becomes a vivid illustration of how the fallen human heart manifests its depravity. Words of deceit, slander, and malice are not just accidental utterances but flow from a corrupted inner being.
3. **Validation of Paul's Argument**: By quoting the Old Testament, Paul demonstrates that the problem of human sin is not new but has been consistently revealed throughout redemptive history. The description of the throat as an "open sepulchre" serves as a stark indictment, highlighting the desperate need for divine intervention and salvation.
4. **Need for Regeneration**: The imagery implies that the problem is not superficial but deeply rooted. A mere behavioral modification is insufficient; what is needed is a radical transformation of the heart, which then impacts the outward expressions of the throat and tongue.
### Summary
The Greek word λάρυγξ (lárynx, `{{G2995}}`) literally refers to the "throat" or "larynx." Its sole appearance in [[Romans 3:13]] is highly significant, serving as a powerful metaphor in Paul's comprehensive indictment of human sinfulness. Described as an "open sepulchre," the throat symbolizes the pervasive spiritual decay emanating from within fallen humanity, manifesting in corrupt and deceitful speech. This vivid imagery underscores the depth of human depravity, emphasizing that even the physical instruments of expression are tainted by sin. Consequently, the passage highlights the profound need for God's redemptive work to transform the human heart, thereby cleansing the very source from which words and life flow.
TRV