### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **mnēma**, represented by `{{G3418}}`, is a term for a memorial or burial place, defined as a **grave**, **sepulchre**, or **tomb**. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a word meaning to remember, `{{G3418}}` signifies not just a place of interment, but a monument intended as a remembrance of the dead.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3418}}` is used to designate significant burial sites. Most notably, it refers to the **sepulchre** where the body of Jesus was laid after the crucifixion, a tomb that was "hewn in stone" [[Luke 23:53]]. This same **sepulchre** is the location the women came to on the first day of the week, intending to anoint the body with spices [[Luke 24:1]]. The term also marks the tomb of the patriarch David, which was still present as a known landmark at the time of Peter's address [[Acts 2:29]]. In a contrasting context, it describes the desolate places inhabited by the demon-possessed man, who dwelled among the **tombs** ([[Mark 5:5]], [[Luke 8:27]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of burial practices and locations:
* `{{G3419}}` **mnēmeîon** (a remembrance, i.e. cenotaph (place of interment):--grave, sepulchre, tomb): This closely related noun is also used for Christ's **sepulchre** [[Mark 16:5]] and the **grave** from which Lazarus was called [[John 12:17]].
* `{{G5028}}` **táphos** (a grave (the place of interment):--sepulchre, tomb): This word is used when describing the Pharisees as "whited **sepulchres**," which appear beautiful outwardly but are unclean within [[Matthew 23:27]].
* `{{G2290}}` **tháptō** (a primary verb; to celebrate funeral rites, i.e. inter:--bury): This verb denotes the act of burial itself, as when David was both "dead and **buried**" [[Acts 2:29]].
* `{{G5087}}` **títhēmi** (to place... in a passive or horizontal posture): This verb is used to describe the action of laying a body in a tomb, such as when the two witnesses' bodies are not permitted to be **put** in graves [[Revelation 11:9]] or when Jesus was **laid** in the sepulchre [[Luke 23:53]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3418}}` is rooted in its function as a place of both finality and testimony.
* **Site of Resurrection:** The primary importance of the **sepulchre** `{{G3418}}` is its role as the setting for Christ's victory over death. It is the specific location that was prepared for his body [[Luke 23:53]] and subsequently found empty [[Luke 24:1]], becoming a powerful symbol of the resurrection.
* **A Place of Remembrance:** The word's connection to "memorial" is evident in its use for the tombs of patriarchs like David and Abraham, which serve as physical reminders of God's covenant history with Israel ([[Acts 2:29]], [[Acts 7:16]]).
* **Symbol of Honor and Dishonor:** A proper burial in a **grave** or **sepulchre** was a sign of respect. Conversely, being denied burial, as prophetically described for the two witnesses in Revelation, is a sign of ultimate disgrace [[Revelation 11:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3418}}` **mnēma** is a focused term that goes beyond a simple hole in the ground. It is a memorial, a monument marking the final resting place of individuals. Its biblical usage is critical, establishing the historical location of Christ's burial and resurrection, serving as a landmark for patriarchal lineage, and acting as a symbol of both honorable remembrance and desolate ruin.
TRV