### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **táphos**, represented by `{{G5028}}`, is a masculine noun that literally means **a grave (the place of interment)**, often translated as sepulchre or tomb. It appears 7 times in 7 unique verses in the Bible. This term refers specifically to a burial place, setting the scene for significant theological statements and events, most notably the resurrection of Jesus.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5028}}` is used in two primary contexts. A significant number of its appearances are in the Gospel of Matthew, directly referencing the tomb of Jesus. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary are described as coming to see the **sepulchre** [[Matthew 28:1]] and sitting opposite it [[Matthew 27:61]]. The authorities' fear of Jesus's resurrection is highlighted by their actions to make the **sepulchre** sure by sealing the stone and setting a watch ([[Matthew 27:64]], [[Matthew 27:66]]). The word is also used metaphorically. Jesus rebukes the Pharisees, calling them "whited **sepulchres**" that are beautiful externally but inwardly full of corruption [[Matthew 23:27]]. Similarly, Paul uses the term in Romans to describe a throat as an "open **sepulchre**," symbolizing corrupt and deceitful speech [[Romans 3:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the actions and state associated with a `{{G5028}}` tomb:
* `{{G3419}}` **mnēmeîon** (a remembrance, i.e. cenotaph (place of interment)): This word appears alongside `táphos` when Jesus condemns the Pharisees for building the **tombs** of the prophets and garnishing the **sepulchres** of the righteous [[Matthew 23:29]].
* `{{G805}}` **asphalízō** (to render secure): This verb details the official action taken to **make** the **sepulchre** sure, emphasizing the attempt to guard the tomb of Jesus [[Matthew 27:64]].
* `{{G3498}}` **nekrós** (dead): This term describes the contents of the metaphorical sepulchres, which are full of **dead** men's bones [[Matthew 23:27]]. It is also central to the fear that the disciples would claim Jesus had risen from the **dead** [[Matthew 27:64]].
* `{{G3618}}` **oikodoméō** (to be a house-builder, i.e. construct): This word is used for the action of the Pharisees who **build** the tombs of the prophets as an outward display of honor [[Matthew 23:29]].
* `{{G4972}}` **sphragízō** (to stamp... seal up): This specifies one of the key actions taken to secure the tomb, **sealing** the stone to prevent tampering [[Matthew 27:66]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5028}}` is focused on the themes of death, hypocrisy, and resurrection.
* **The Locus of Resurrection:** The `táphos` is the physical site of Christ's burial and, more importantly, the site that would be found empty. Its careful guarding and sealing [[Matthew 27:66]] serve to magnify the miracle of the resurrection.
* **Symbol of Inner Corruption:** Jesus's use of "whited **sepulchres**" is a powerful indictment of hypocrisy. It illustrates that outward religious observance is meaningless if the heart is full of spiritual death and uncleanness [[Matthew 23:27]].
* **A Metaphor for Sinful Humanity:** In Romans, the "open **sepulchre**" of the throat is a metaphor for the state of unrighteousness, where the words that come forth reflect the spiritual death within [[Romans 3:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5028}}` is a focused term that, while appearing infrequently, plays a crucial role. As a literal **tomb**, it is the setting for the climax of the gospel story—the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. As a metaphor, it serves as one of the Bible's most stark images for religious hypocrisy and the internal corruption that can be hidden behind an attractive exterior.
TRV