### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nékrōsis**, represented by `{{G3500}}`, refers to **decease** or, figuratively, **impotency**, often translated as **deadness** or **dying**. It is derived from the word νεκρόω (nekróō). Occurring only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, its limited use highlights specific theological concepts related to both physical limitation and spiritual identification.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3500}}` is applied in two distinct contexts. In Romans, it describes a physical state of inability, specifically "the **deadness** of Sara's womb" [[Romans 4:19]]. This was a tangible reality that Abraham, though about an hundred years old himself `{{G1541}}`, did not consider an obstacle to his faith. In contrast, its use in 2 Corinthians is figurative, describing the believer's experience of "always bearing about in the body the **dying** of the Lord Jesus" [[2 Corinthians 4:10]]. This spiritual state is carried so that the life of Jesus might also be made manifest in the believer's body.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of `{{G3500}}`:
* `{{G3499}}` **nekróō** (to deaden, i.e. (figuratively) to subdue:--be dead, mortify.): This is the verb from which nékrōsis is derived. It is used in the same context as `{{G3500}}` to describe Abraham's own body as "now **dead**" [[Romans 4:19]], reinforcing the theme of physical finality overcome by faith.
* `{{G4983}}` **sōma** (the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively:--bodily, body, slave.): Both occurrences of `{{G3500}}` are linked to the **body**. It is Abraham's own **body** he considered [[Romans 4:19]] and the believer's **body** in which the dying of Jesus is carried [[2 Corinthians 4:10]].
* `{{G2222}}` **zōḗ** (life (literally or figuratively):--life(-time).): This word stands in direct contrast to `{{G3500}}`. The purpose of bearing the "dying" of Jesus is so that His **life** may be revealed in our bodies [[2 Corinthians 4:10]], showing a divine exchange.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3500}}` is centered on the principle of life emerging from death.
* **Faith Overcoming Physical Deadness:** The "deadness" of Sara's `{{G4564}}` womb `{{G3388}}` represents a humanly impossible situation. Abraham's faith, not being weak `{{G770}}`, did not focus on this physical impotence but on God's promise, demonstrating that faith operates beyond natural limitations [[Romans 4:19]].
* **Participating in Christ's Dying:** Believers are called to carry "the **dying** of the Lord `{{G2962}}` Jesus" `{{G2424}}` in their bodies [[2 Corinthians 4:10]]. This signifies a continual identification with Christ's death, a process of mortification and surrender.
* **The Manifestation of Life:** The ultimate purpose of this "dying" is redemptive. The very **life** `{{G2222}}` of Jesus is made manifest `{{G5319}}` in the believer's body through the process of bearing His death [[2 Corinthians 4:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3500}}` is a potent term that, despite its rare appearance, encapsulates a profound biblical truth. It bridges the concept of literal, physical **deadness**, as seen in Sarah's womb, with the figurative, spiritual **dying** that marks the Christian walk. In both cases, `{{G3500}}` points to a state of inability that becomes the context for God to powerfully manifest His life-giving power, whether through miraculous birth or the spiritual renewal of the believer.
TRV