The Greek word latoméō, represented by G2998, means to quarry or hew. It appears only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its use is highly specific, describing the act of carving a tomb out of solid rock.
In the biblical narrative, G2998 is used exclusively in the accounts of Jesus's burial. In Mark, the sepulchre is described as one which was hewn out of a rock Mark 15:46. Matthew's account specifies that Joseph of Arimathea laid Jesus's body in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock Matthew 27:60. In both instances, the word emphasizes the deliberate and laborious creation of a permanent tomb from a rock mass.
Several related words expand upon the context of hewing a tomb:
- G4073 pétra (rock): This is the material from which the sepulchre is hewn. It is defined as a (mass of) rock and is central to the setting of the burial in both Matthew 27:60 and Mark 15:46.
- G3419 mnēmeîon (sepulchre, tomb): This is the object that results from the action of hewing. It is described as a place of interment that was hewn from rock for the purpose of burial.
- G3037 líthos (stone): This term is used for the stone rolled to the door of the hewn sepulchre, serving as the final element in sealing the tomb (Matthew 27:60, Mark 15:46).
The theological weight of G2998 is derived entirely from its specific context surrounding Christ's burial.
- Intentional Preparation: The use of latoméō shows that the tomb was not a natural cave but was purposefully and laboriously carved from solid rock G4073. This act highlights the great care taken in preparing a final resting place for Jesus Mark 15:46.
- A New and Unused Tomb: Matthew specifies that the tomb which Joseph had hewn out was new G2537 Matthew 27:60. This detail underscores its purity and uniqueness, being a place where no one else had been laid.
- The Secure Foundation for Resurrection: The act of hewing a tomb from rock and sealing it with a great G3173 stone G3037 creates a scene of finality and security. This makes the subsequent miracle of the resurrection, from a tomb so deliberately made, all the more powerful.
In summary, G2998 is a precise term for hewing stone that is given profound significance by its exclusive application to the tomb of Jesus Christ. While the word itself denotes a physical action, its context ties it to the central events of the gospel narrative. It illustrates the intentionality of Christ's burial in a new, secure tomb carved from rock, setting the stage for the resurrection.
TRV