Tombs, graves
Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia
— among the ancient Hebrews these were generally located outside the bounds of the city (Luke 7:12; John 11:30). For tombs, or graves, in antiquity, caves or grottoes were most often used, especially among trees, or in gardens in shady places (Gen. 23:17; John 19:41). The dead were also buried by interment in the earth. Thus, for example, Rebekah’s nurse Deborah was buried under an oak (the oak of weeping) (Gen. 35:8). The wealthy hewed out tombs in the rocks (Isa. 22:16; Matt. 27:60; John 11:38) and on hillsides (2 Kings 23:16). For the poor, common burial places were set aside (Jer. 26:23; 2 Kings 23:6; Matt. 27:7).
Scripture cited
Luke 7:12John 11:30Genesis 23:17John 19:41Genesis 35:8Esaias 22:16Matthew 27:60John 11:384 Kingdoms 23:16Jeremias 26:234 Kingdoms 23:6Matthew 27:7