The Greek word mígma, represented by G3395, means a mixture or compound. It is a very specific term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse within the biblical text, making its single usage highly significant.
The sole appearance of G3395 is in the account of Jesus' burial. Following the crucifixion, Nicodemus, who had first come to Jesus by night, brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes to anoint the body. The verse specifies the compound was substantial, weighing "about an hundred pound weight" John 19:39. This act of devotion uses mígma to describe the precise substance prepared for the entombment.
The components of this mixture are key related words that provide further context:
- G4666 smýrna (myrrh): This substance, defined simply as myrrh, is not only part of the burial mixture John 19:39 but also appears as one of the treasured gifts presented to the young child Jesus by the wise men Matthew 2:11.
- G250 alóē (aloes): Defined as aloes (the gum), this was the second ingredient combined with myrrh to form the compound brought by Nicodemus for Jesus' body John 19:39.
The theological weight of G3395 is derived entirely from its context surrounding the death of Christ.
- Honoring the Dead: The preparation of this costly and large mixture was an act of profound respect and honor, demonstrating the devotion of followers like Nicodemus even after Jesus' death John 19:39.
- Aromatic Bookends: The inclusion of myrrh connects the end of Jesus' life with its beginning. It was a gift heralding his birth Matthew 2:11 and an ingredient used to prepare his body for burial John 19:39, framing his earthly ministry.
- Substance of Burial: The word points directly to the physical reality of Jesus' death and the traditional preparations that accompanied it, grounding the event in a tangible act.
In summary, while G3395 mígma is one of the rarest words in the New Testament, its singular use is pivotal. It provides the specific term for the burial compound used on Jesus' body, linking the narrative of his death to themes of honor, devotion, and the fulfillment of his life from birth to the tomb. The word's significance lies not in its frequency, but in the gravity of the moment it describes.
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