### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **lárynx**, represented by `{{G2995}}`, refers to the **throat**. Its derivation is uncertain, and it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Despite its rarity, its single usage offers a powerful and graphic metaphor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G2995}}` is in [[Romans 3:13]], where it is used to describe the nature of sinful humanity. The passage states, "Their **throat** is an open sepulchre." In this context, the **throat** `{{G2995}}` is not merely a part of the body but is depicted as a source of corruption and death, directly likened to an **open** `{{G455}}` **sepulchre** `{{G5028}}`. The verse continues this theme by describing deceitful **tongues** `{{G1100}}` and the **poison** `{{G2447}}` of asps under their **lips** `{{G5491}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Romans 3:13]] help illustrate the theme of destructive speech:
* `{{G5028}}` **táphos** (a grave): This word is used to create the central metaphor for the **throat**, indicating that the words which proceed from it are like the decay and finality of a **tomb** [[Matthew 23:27]].
* `{{G1100}}` **glōssa** (the tongue): This is identified as the instrument of deceit. The Bible elsewhere describes the **tongue** as a fire and a world of iniquity that can defile the whole body [[James 3:6]].
* `{{G1387}}` **dolióō** (to be guileful): This verb specifies the action of the tongue, defining its speech as deceitful. It appears only once in the dossier, within the same verse as **lárynx**, highlighting their direct connection [[Romans 3:13]].
* `{{G2447}}` **iós** (poison): This word describes the venomous and deadly nature of the words spoken. This same term is used to describe the untamable tongue as being "full of deadly **poison**" [[James 3:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2995}}` is concentrated in its single, vivid appearance.
* **Source of Inner Corruption:** The **throat** is portrayed as the outward opening for the inner state of a person. By describing it as an **open sepulchre** `{{G5028}}`, the passage suggests that sinful speech is a direct outflow of a heart that is spiritually dead [[Romans 3:13]].
* **The Anatomy of Destructive Speech:** The imagery provides a spiritual anatomy lesson. The **throat** `{{G2995}}` is the passage, the **tongue** `{{G1100}}` is the tool of deceit, and the **lips** `{{G5491}}` conceal the **poison** `{{G2447}}`, showing how the physical act of speaking becomes an instrument of sin.
* **A Sign of a Fallen State:** The metaphor of the **throat** as a tomb is part of a larger argument in Romans about the universal sinfulness of humanity. It serves as a potent illustration that human expression, when separated from God, produces death and decay.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2995}}` **lárynx** is a term whose significance lies not in its frequency but in its powerful metaphorical use. In its lone biblical reference, the **throat** becomes a symbol for the source of humanity's corrupt and deadly speech. The image of an **open sepulchre** in [[Romans 3:13]] transforms this simple anatomical word into a profound theological statement on the nature of sin.
TRV