### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nekrós**, represented by `{{G3498}}`, defines the state of being **dead**. It appears **132 times** across **123 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a word for a corpse, it is used both literally to describe physical death and figuratively to denote a state of spiritual separation from God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3498}}` is central to the Christian faith. It is most frequently used in connection with the resurrection of Jesus Christ, as seen in the foundational declaration that God "raised him from the **dead**" [[Romans 10:9]]. The word also describes the condition of humanity apart from God, as believers are reminded that they were once "**dead** in trespasses and sins" [[Ephesians 2:1]]. Christ Himself is given titles such as "the first begotten of the **dead**" [[Revelation 1:5]] and "the firstborn from the **dead**" [[Colossians 1:18]], signifying His victory and preeminence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of death and life:
* `{{G1453}}` **egeírō** (to waken, rouse): This verb is consistently used for the act of resurrection, such as when the deaf hear and the **dead** are **raised up** [[Matthew 11:5]].
* `{{G2198}}` **záō** (to live): This word serves as the direct opposite of **nekrós**. God is described as the God of the **living**, not of the **dead** [[Luke 20:38]].
* `{{G2227}}` **zōopoiéō** (to make alive, give life, quicken): This term describes the divine power to bring life from death, as God is the one who **quickeneth** the **dead** [[Romans 4:17]].
* `{{G386}}` **anástasis** (a standing up again, resurrection): This noun refers specifically to the event of rising from death and is a core doctrine, as in the "resurrection of the **dead**" [[Hebrews 6:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3498}}` is immense, shaping our understanding of salvation and eschatology.
* **Spiritual Death:** The term defines humanity's state of separation from God due to sin. Believers were once "**dead** in sins" [[Ephesians 2:5]] and must repent from "**dead** works" [[Hebrews 6:1]].
* **Christ's Victory over Death:** The resurrection of Jesus from the **dead** is the foundation of Christian hope. Because He was raised, death no longer has dominion over Him [[Romans 6:9]], and He holds the keys of death [[Revelation 1:18]].
* **New Life in Christ:** Believers are identified with Christ's death and resurrection. They are "become **dead** to the law" [[Romans 7:4]] and are now considered "alive from the **dead**" [[Romans 6:13]], called to walk in newness of life.
* **Final Resurrection:** The word is crucial to the biblical teaching on the end times, when the "dead in Christ shall rise first" [[1 Thessalonians 4:16]] and all the **dead** will stand before God for judgment [[Revelation 20:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3498}}` is more than a term for physical cessation. It is a foundational concept in Scripture that contrasts the spiritual death caused by sin with the new life available through Christ. It is central to the gospel message, encapsulating Christ's power over death and the promise of resurrection for all who believe in Him who was raised from the **dead** [[Galatians 1:1]].
TRV