### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nekróō**, represented by `{{G3499}}`, means to **deaden** or, figuratively, to **subdue**. It is derived from νεκρός (dead). Though it appears only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, its usage carries significant weight, encompassing both a state of physical powerlessness and a direct command for spiritual discipline.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{G3499}}` is used in two distinct ways. First, it describes a state of physical inability, as when Abraham, at about one hundred years old, was considered "as good as **dead**" [[Hebrews 11:12]], with his body "now **dead**" [[Romans 4:19]]. Second, it is used as a command to believers to actively subdue sinful behaviors. In Colossians, believers are instructed to "**Mortify** therefore your members which are upon the earth," followed by a list of specific sins [[Colossians 3:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G3499}}`:
* `{{G3500}}` **nékrōsis** (deadness, dying): This word, derived from `{{G3499}}`, refers to a state of decease or impotency. It is used alongside `{{G3499}}` in reference to the "**deadness** of Sara's womb" [[Romans 4:19]].
* `{{G3196}}` **mélos** (member): This term for a limb or part of the body is the object of the command to mortify in Colossians. Believers are told to deaden their earthly "**members**" [[Colossians 3:5]].
* `{{G4983}}` **sōma** (body): This word for the physical body is the subject described as dead in the account of Abraham, who considered his own "**body** now dead" yet did not waver in faith [[Romans 4:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3499}}` is significant, highlighting key spiritual principles.
* **Divine Power in Human Weakness:** The use of `{{G3499}}` to describe Abraham's body as "as good as **dead**" [[Hebrews 11:12]] and Sara's womb having "**deadness**" [[Romans 4:19]] sets the stage for God's miraculous power. From this state of inability, God brought forth an innumerable multitude.
* **Active Spiritual Discipline:** The command to "**Mortify**" is not a suggestion of passivity but a call to action. Believers are responsible for subduing their earthly **members** `{{G3196}}` and the sins associated with them, such as **fornication** `{{G4202}}`, **uncleanness** `{{G167}}`, and **covetousness** `{{G4124}}` [[Colossians 3:5]].
* **Faith Overcoming Impossibility:** Abraham's example connects faith with the reality of deadness. He was not "weak in **faith**" `{{G770}}` even when he acknowledged that his body was **dead** `{{G3499}}`, demonstrating a reliance on God's promise over physical circumstances [[Romans 4:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3499}}` provides a powerful illustration of the contrast between physical finality and spiritual action. It describes both the state of utter powerlessness from which God can create life, as seen in Abraham, and the decisive action required of believers to subdue their sinful nature. The word serves as a reminder that what is considered dead from a human perspective can be a canvas for divine power and a target for spiritual discipline.
TRV