ἐνταφιάζω

I embalm, prepare for burial

Definition

ἐνταφιάζω means to prepare a body for burial, specifically through the process of embalming or anointing with spices and wrappings. In the New Testament, it refers to the Jewish burial custom of anointing a corpse with aromatic oils and wrapping it in linen cloths, as seen in John 19:40 where Nicodemus brings myrrh and aloes to prepare Jesus' body. The word emphasizes the careful, respectful treatment of the deceased, not merely interment. In Matthew 26:12, Jesus uses the term figuratively when a woman anoints him with expensive perfume, saying she has done it 'to prepare me for burial,' linking her act to his impending death.

Biblical Usage

This verb occurs only twice in the New Testament, both in contexts directly related to Jesus' burial. In Matthew 26:12, it is used prophetically by Jesus during his anointing at Bethany, connecting a woman's act of devotion to his coming entombment. In John 19:40, it describes the actual preparation of Jesus' body after the crucifixion, where Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus wrap it with spices in linen cloths according to Jewish custom. Both uses highlight honor given to Jesus in death.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐν (en, meaning 'in') combined with a root related to τάφος (taphos, 'tomb' or 'burial'). It literally means 'to prepare for burial in a tomb' or 'to lay in a tomb with honors.' The root implies connection to burial rites, emphasizing the placement and treatment of the body within a tomb setting.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underscores Jesus' true humanity and death, affirming his physical burial—a key element of the gospel (1 Corinthians 15:4). The careful preparation of his body reflects honor given to the Son of God even in humiliation, and the anointing in Matthew 26:12 points to his sacrificial role. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting how these acts foreshadow and confirm Christ's burial, central to Christian faith.

In first-century Jewish culture, ἐνταφιάζω involved anointing a body with spices and wrapping it in linen to slow decomposition and show respect, distinct from Egyptian embalming that removed organs. Burial typically occurred quickly after death, often on the same day. The use of expensive spices, as in John 19:40, indicated high honor or wealth, reflecting the esteem given to Jesus by his followers.

θάπτω (thaptō, G2290) — a more general term meaning 'to bury' or 'inter,' without the specific connotation of anointing or preparation; κατατίθημι (katatithēmi, G2698) — can mean 'to lay down' or 'bury,' but is broader and less specific to burial rites.

Word Details

Scripture References