τάφος (taphos)
taphos
grave
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun taphos refers to a grave or tomb, specifically a place where a body is laid to rest. In the New Testament, it appears seven times, primarily in the Gospel of Matthew and once in Romans. The word carries the weight of finality, marking the boundary between life and death.
Its usage often highlights the physical reality of burial sites. Jesus uses it when describing the tombs of the prophets, which are whitewashed but full of decay inside (Matthew 23:27). It also appears in the narrative of Jesus’ own burial, noting where Joseph laid Him and how the women observed the location (Matthew 27:61; 28:1). In Romans 3:13, Paul quotes the Psalms to describe the throat as a taphos, using the image of a grave to illustrate the deadly nature of deceitful speech.
This term grounds theological concepts in tangible reality. It is not merely a metaphor but a specific location associated with death and preservation. By referencing actual tombs, the text emphasizes the historical context of Jesus’ burial and the seriousness of sin’s consequences as depicted in Paul’s quotation.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word taphos points to a grave or tomb, marking the boundary between life and death. In Matthew 23:27, Jesus compares hypocrites to whitewashed tombs—beautiful outside but full of decay inside. This image reminds us that true faith must be real within, not just a polished exterior for others to see.
Yet this word also carries hope. In Matthew 28:1, the women come to see the empty tomb after Jesus’ resurrection. The grave could not hold Him. His victory turns death into a passage to new life. When we face our own endings or losses, we remember that God’s power is greater than any tomb.
Paul uses taphos in Romans 3:13 to describe how deceitful speech can be deadly, like an open grave. This warns us to guard our words and hearts. We are called to live with integrity, letting our inner lives match our outward actions. In Christ, we find forgiveness for our failures and the promise of eternal life beyond the grave.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- tombs2×
- tomb.2×
- tomb2×
- A grave1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- τάφον2×
- τάφους1×
- τάφου.¶1×
- τάφος1×
- τάφον.1×
- τάφοις1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 23:27
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitened tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but inwardly are full of dead men’s bones and of all uncleanness.
Jesus uses taphos to expose the hidden corruption behind the Pharisees' outward piety, warning against hypocrisy.
-
Matthew 28:1
Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb.
The women visit the tomb after the Sabbath, encountering the empty grave that confirms Jesus’ resurrection.
-
Romans 3:13
“Their throat is an open tomb. With their tongues they have used deceit.” “The poison of vipers is under their lips.”
Paul quotes Psalm 140 to describe deceitful speech as an open tomb, highlighting its deadly spiritual impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does taphos mean in the Bible?
Why does Jesus call tombs 'whitewashed' in Matthew 23?
How is taphos used in Romans 3:13?
Every Occurrence (7 verses across 2 books)
Matthew 6 verses
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitened tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but…
Matthew 23:29“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs of the prophets and decorate the tombs of the…
Matthew 27:61Mary Magdalene was there, and the other Mary, sitting opposite the tomb.
Matthew 27:64Command therefore that the tomb be made secure until the third day, lest perhaps his disciples come at night and steal…
Matthew 27:66So they went with the guard and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone.
Matthew 28:1Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see…