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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is crucial for delving deeper into Biblical studies, as they often carry nuanced meanings that significantly impact interpretation. The Greek word λαξευτός (laxeutós), which first appears in Luke 23:53, is one such term. It refers to something “hewn” or “carved,” specifically indicating an object shaped by cutting or chiseling stone. This word not only enriches our comprehension of specific New Testament passages but also connects us to the ancient practices of craftsmanship and burial traditions, shedding light on how physical and spiritual life was perceived in ancient Greek culture.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: λαξευτός, transliterated as laxeutós [pronounced: lax-yoo-TOS].

Etymology: The word λαξευτός (laxeutós) is derived from the Greek verb λαξεύω (laxeuō), which means “to hew” or “to carve.” This etymological root ties the word directly to the concept of crafting or cutting, particularly in the context of working with stone.

Part of Speech: Adjective. As an adjective, laxeutós describes something that has been worked on or shaped, particularly in reference to stone or rock surfaces that have been carefully chiseled or cut.

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Defining Meanings

1. Hewn or Carved: The primary meaning of laxeutós is “hewn” or “carved.” It describes an object that has been shaped by a tool, especially stone that has been chiseled or cut into a particular form. In the New Testament, it often refers to a tomb or a sepulcher that has been cut out of rock.

2. Shaped by a Craftsman: By extension, laxeutós can also imply anything shaped with intention and skill, suggesting a level of craftsmanship and effort put into creating something from raw materials.

Exploring Similar Words

1. λαξεύω (laxeuō) [pronunciation: lax-YOO-oh]: The verb form of the same root, meaning “to hew” or “to carve.” It directly relates to the action involved in creating something that would be described as laxeutós.

2. λαξευμα (laxeúma) [pronunciation: lax-YOO-mah]: This noun form refers to the result of the action of hewing or carving, emphasizing the end product rather than the process itself.

3. λιθοτομέω (lithotomeō) [pronunciation: lith-oh-TOH-meh-oh]: Meaning “to quarry” or “to cut stone,” this verb is more specific to extracting stone from a quarry rather than crafting a final product like laxeutós implies.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Adjective Morphology: As an adjective, laxeutós is inflected according to case, number, and gender. Here is a breakdown of its forms:

• Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Gender: Masculine, Feminine, Neuter

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word laxeutós is used in the New Testament, notably in Luke 23:53, where it describes the tomb in which Jesus’ body was laid—specifically a tomb “hewn out of stone.” This word choice emphasizes the effort and craftsmanship involved in creating such a sepulcher, reflecting a cultural practice of the time for wealthy or significant individuals to be buried in rock-cut tombs. In classical Greek literature, laxeutós can describe any carved object, from statues to pillars, emphasizing the skill of the artisan. Theologically, this word also adds depth to the narrative of Christ’s burial, linking the physical labor of crafting the tomb with the spiritual significance of the resurrection.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Luke 23:53: “Then he took it down and wrapped it in a linen shroud and laid him in a tomb cut [λαξευτός] in stone, where no one had ever yet been laid.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word λαξευτός (laxeutós) primarily means “hewn” or “carved,” especially in reference to stone. This word connects to the ancient practices of quarrying and stone carving, significant for both cultural and religious contexts. In the New Testament, it enriches the narrative of Jesus’ burial, emphasizing both the physical craftsmanship of His tomb and the cultural traditions surrounding burial practices of that era. The word also appears in classical Greek texts, where it describes anything from statues to buildings, underlining the craftsmanship involved in their creation.

Did You Know?

1. The word laxeutós specifically describes a tomb in Luke 23:53, highlighting the traditional Jewish custom of burying the dead in rock-hewn tombs.
2. Rock-hewn tombs were a sign of wealth and status in the ancient world, often reserved for prominent individuals or families.
3. The meticulous craftsmanship implied by laxeutós reflects a broader cultural appreciation for skilled artisanship in ancient Greek and Jewish societies.