### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **teleutḗ**, represented by `{{G5054}}`, provides the specific term for **decease** or **death**. It is derived from the word τελευτάω. According to usage statistics, it is a very rare word, appearing only **1 times** in **1 unique verses** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G5054}}` occurs in the context of the early life of Jesus. It marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, specifying that Joseph, Mary, and Jesus were to remain in Egypt "until the **death** of Herod" [[Matthew 2:15]]. This event is directly linked to the fulfillment of the prophecy, "Out of Egypt have I called my son," indicating that Herod's death was the divinely appointed trigger for the Holy Family's return.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context provide further clarity:
* `{{G2258}}` **ēn** (was): This word, defined as "I (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)," establishes the state of being that existed prior to and during a specific event. It is used in [[Matthew 2:15]] to show that the family **was** in Egypt until the death occurred, and it is used elsewhere to describe past states, such as when followers of Christ **were** like sheep going astray [[1 Peter 2:25]] or when the Word **was** with God in the beginning [[John 1:1]].
* `{{G2264}}` **Hērṓdēs** (Herod): This name identifies the king whose death is recorded. He is a central antagonist in the nativity story who sought to destroy the young child Jesus [[Matthew 2:13]]. The **death** referenced by `{{G5054}}` is specifically his, ending his direct threat to Jesus and allowing the family to return safely.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5054}}` is tied exclusively to its singular appearance.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The timing of Herod's **death** is not presented as a coincidence but as a sovereign act of God. It functions as the specific event that allows God's plan to move to the next stage.
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** The verse explicitly connects the waiting period that ends with this **death** to the fulfillment of scripture [[Matthew 2:15]]. The event is therefore a critical component of prophetic history, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His word.
* **Removal of Opposition:** Herod represents earthly power set against God's anointed Son [[Matthew 2:13]]. His **death** signifies the ultimate powerlessness of human opposition in the face of God's redemptive purpose.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5054}}` is a term with a highly specific application in scripture. Its lone use is not insignificant; rather, it marks the pivotal moment of King Herod's demise. This event concludes a period of peril for the infant Jesus, serves as the catalyst for His return from Egypt, and acts as a key marker in the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, highlighting God's providential control over historical events.
TRV