### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἄρωμα (G759), transliterated as *árōma*, refers to an aromatic substance, specifically a "sweet spice." Its etymology traces back to αἴρω (G142), meaning "to lift" or "to carry away," implying the diffusion or emission of a pleasant scent. Thus, the core meaning encompasses any substance valued for its fragrance, whether for anointing, embalming, perfumery, or medicinal purposes. The term emphasizes the sensory quality of the substance—its distinctive and often pleasing aroma.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of ἄρωμα (G759) in the New Testament are notably concentrated around the burial of Jesus Christ.
* In [[Mark 16:1]], Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome are depicted as purchasing "spices" (*arōmata*) with the intention of anointing Jesus' body. This act reflects a customary Jewish practice of honoring the deceased and preparing the body for burial.
* Similarly, [[Luke 23:56]] describes the women who followed Jesus from Galilee returning home after His crucifixion to prepare "spices" (*arōmata*) and ointments. Their subsequent journey to the tomb on the first day of the week, bringing these prepared substances, is recorded in [[Luke 24:1]].
* A significant instance is found in [[John 19:39-40]], where Nicodemus brings a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds, to assist Joseph of Arimathea in burying Jesus. The text explicitly states they "took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices (*arōmata*), as is the burial custom of the Jews." Here, ἄρωμα is used collectively for the aromatic resins.
In all these contexts, ἄρωμα signifies costly and precious substances used in the solemn ritual of burial, underscoring the deep reverence and love felt for the deceased. The quantity and quality of the spices reflect the honor bestowed upon the one being buried.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field surrounding ἄρωμα includes several related terms and concepts:
* **αἴρω (G142):** The root verb, signifying the "lifting" or "carrying away" of scent, providing the etymological basis for ἄρωμα.
* **μύρον (G3464):** This word denotes "ointment" or "perfume," often a fragrant and costly preparation used for anointing. It frequently appears in contexts similar to ἄρωμα, such as the anointing of Jesus by Mary of Bethany ([[John 12:3]]).
* **σμύρνα (G4667) and ἀλόη (G257):** Specific types of aromatic resins, myrrh and aloes, explicitly identified as the components of the "spices" Nicodemus brought in [[John 19:39]]. These highlight the specific nature of the *arōmata* used.
* **Old Testament Parallels:** While ἄρωμα is a Greek term, the use of aromatic substances is deeply embedded in Old Testament practices. Examples include the sacred anointing oil ([[Exodus 30:23-25]]), the composition of holy incense ([[Exodus 30:34-38]]), and embalming practices, such as that for Jacob ([[Genesis 50:2-3]]). These demonstrate a long-standing cultural and religious significance of fragrant materials in worship, ritual, and burial.
### Theological Significance
The use of ἄρωμα in the New Testament, particularly in the context of Jesus' burial, carries profound theological significance:
* **Act of Devotion and Honor:** The application of costly spices to Jesus' body was a final, deeply reverent act of love and honor by His followers. It was an expression of profound sorrow and respect for the crucified Lord, treating His body with the utmost dignity even in death. This resonates with the anointing of Jesus by Mary of Bethany, which Jesus Himself interpreted as preparation for His burial ([[John 12:7]]).
* **Fulfillment of Custom, Subverted by Resurrection:** The women brought ἄρωμα to the tomb to complete the burial rites, yet their purpose was providentially rendered unnecessary by the resurrection. The spices, intended to preserve a body from decay, were met with an empty tomb and a living Lord. This subtle contrast underscores the triumph of life over death, highlighting that human efforts to honor the dead are ultimately superseded by God's divine power to raise the dead. The ἄρωμα becomes a poignant symbol of human devotion confronted by divine miracle.
* **Symbolism of Purity and Sacredness:** In broader biblical thought, fragrant spices are often associated with purity, holiness, and the divine presence (e.g., the incense in the Temple). While not explicitly stated for Jesus' burial, the lavish use of ἄρωμα tacitly affirms the sacredness of Christ's body, even in its post-crucifixion state, aligning with His divine nature.
### Summary
The Greek word ἄρωμα (G759) denotes an aromatic substance or sweet spice, derived from the concept of scent being diffused. Its primary occurrences in the New Testament are centered on the burial of Jesus, where costly spices were brought by His devoted followers and Nicodemus for anointing and embalming His body. This act signifies profound honor, love, and reverence for the crucified Lord. Theologically, the ἄρωμα represents a poignant human expression of devotion in the face of death, an expression that is ultimately eclipsed and rendered unnecessary by the glorious reality of Jesus' resurrection, underscoring God's triumph over the grave.
TRV