### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb λατομέω (latoméō), Strong's number `{{G2998}}`, derives from elements signifying "stone" (λᾶς, related to the first part of λαξευτός) and "to cut" (from the base of τομώτερος). Its core meaning is therefore "to cut stone," "to quarry," or "to hew out of rock." This term denotes a deliberate, laborious process of shaping and excavating hard, unyielding material. It implies human effort applied to a natural substance to create a specific form or space. The action is precise and involves the removal of material to create an internal void or external shape.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb λατομέω appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Mark 15:46]]. The verse describes Joseph of Arimathea's actions following the crucifixion of Jesus: "And he bought a linen cloth, and taking him down, he wrapped him in the linen cloth and laid him in a tomb that had been hewn out of rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb." The specific form used is ἐλατόμησεν (elatómēsen), an aorist active indicative, emphasizing the completed action of hewing.
The context is profoundly significant. The tomb prepared for Jesus was not a natural cave or a pre-existing burial site, but one "hewn out of rock." This detail underscores several points:
1. **Deliberate Preparation:** The tomb was specifically crafted, indicating foresight and intentionality in providing a burial place for Jesus.
2. **Permanence and Security:** A tomb hewn from solid rock signifies durability and security, making it difficult to tamper with. This detail enhances the later miraculous nature of the resurrection, as the body was placed in an unassailable, sealed chamber.
3. **Joseph's Status:** The ability to own or commission such a tomb suggests Joseph of Arimathea's wealth and influence, consistent with his description as a "prominent member of the Council" ([[Mark 15:43]]).
4. **Newness/Purity:** Although not explicitly stated by λατομέω itself, other Gospel accounts specify it was a "new tomb" ([[Matthew 27:60]], [[John 19:41]]). The act of "hewing" implies a fresh, unused space, which was fitting for the sinless Christ, who would consecrate even death and the grave.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Strong's definition itself points to λαξευτός (laxeytos), a related adjective meaning "hewn," "cut in stone," or "quarried." This term often describes tombs or architectural features carved from rock. Other related concepts include:
* λίθος (`{{G3037}}`): The common Greek word for "stone" or "rock," which forms the material basis for the action of λατομέω. The tomb was hewn *from* rock, and a large *stone* was rolled to seal its entrance.
* μνημεῖον (`{{G3419}}`): The term for "tomb," "grave," or "memorial." The λατομέω describes the *construction* of this specific type of μνημεῖον.
* The broader concept of burial practices in the ancient world, particularly those involving rock-cut tombs, which were common for wealthier individuals in Judea.
### Theological Significance
The single occurrence of λατομέω in [[Mark 15:46]] carries profound theological weight within the narrative of Jesus' passion, death, and resurrection.
1. **Authenticity of Death and Burial:** The detail of a "hewn" tomb underscores the reality and finality of Jesus' death. He was not merely missing, but genuinely laid in a meticulously prepared and secured burial site. This authenticates the resurrection as a literal, physical event, not a disappearance.
2. **Divine Providence in Suffering:** Even in the depths of sorrow and apparent defeat, God's providential care is evident. The preparation of a fitting tomb, by a secret disciple, speaks to divine orchestration even in the face of human abandonment and betrayal.
3. **The Empty Tomb's Power:** The fact that the tomb was "hewn out of rock" and subsequently sealed with a large stone highlights the impossibility of human intervention or theft. This makes the empty tomb and the subsequent resurrection all the more miraculous and undeniable. The power that rolled away the stone and emptied the hewn chamber was divine, not human.
4. **Symbolism of Newness:** The implication of a "new" and "hewn" tomb, untouched by previous death, symbolically sets Jesus apart. His death was unique, a sinless sacrifice, and His resurrection would inaugurate a new creation, free from the stain of sin and death. The fresh, unblemished tomb is a fitting temporary resting place for the One who would conquer death.
### Summary
The Greek verb λατομέω (`{{G2998}}`) signifies the precise and laborious act of "hewing out of rock" or "quarrying." Its singular but critical appearance in [[Mark 15:46]] describes the preparation of Jesus' tomb by Joseph of Arimathea. This detail emphasizes the deliberate, secure, and permanent nature of the burial site, underscoring the reality of Jesus' death. Theologically, the "hewn" tomb heightens the miraculous nature of the resurrection, as it was a sealed chamber that only divine power could open and empty. It also subtly points to God's providence even in the darkest hours and the unique, unblemished nature of Christ's sacrifice and subsequent triumph over death.
TRV