The Greek word proskylíō, represented by G4351, is derived from πρός and κυλιόω. Its definition is "to roll towards, i.e. block against," and it is used to mean "roll (to)." This specific term appears only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the entire Bible, highlighting its focused application.
Both occurrences of G4351 are found in the accounts of Jesus' burial. The word describes the final action of sealing the tomb. In Matthew 27:60, after Joseph of Arimathaea had placed Jesus' body in a new tomb hewn from rock, he rolled a great stone to the door and departed. The parallel account in Mark 15:46 also uses the word, stating that after the body was taken down and laid in a sepulchre, a stone was rolled unto the door of the sepulchre. In both instances, the word marks the completion of the burial process.
The action of G4351 is part of a sequence of events described with other specific Greek words:
- G2507 kathairéō (to lower... take down): This verb is used for the act of taking Jesus' body down from the cross, the first step in the burial process described in Mark 15:46.
- G2698 katatíthēmi (to place down, i.e. deposit): This word describes the action of laying the body in the sepulchre, immediately preceding the rolling of the stone in the Mark account Mark 15:46.
- G565 apérchomai (to go off, i.e. depart): This word is used in Matthew 27:60 to describe what Joseph of Arimathaea did immediately after he rolled the stone to the door of the tomb.
The theological weight of G4351 is tied directly to its specific, literal action in the burial narrative. It underscores several key ideas:
- The Finality of the Burial: The act of rolling a great stone to block the entrance of the tomb represents the definitive conclusion of Jesus' burial, physically separating the dead from the living.
- An Act of Securing: The base definition, "to roll towards, i.e. block against," implies a deliberate and secure closure. This action, mentioned in both Matthew and Mark, emphasizes that the tomb was sealed with purpose.
- A Deliberate Sequence: The use of this specific verb is the culmination of a series of respectful actions, from buying fine linen Mark 15:46 to providing a new tomb Matthew 27:60, demonstrating the solemn care taken in the burial.
In summary, proskylíō G4351 is a highly specific verb used exclusively to describe the sealing of Jesus' tomb. Though rare, its usage is pivotal, marking the final, physical act of the burial narrative. It serves as a powerful descriptor for the moment of closure and containment, working in concert with other terms that detail the careful and deliberate process of laying Christ to rest.
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