A STUDY ON THE TERM ύδωρ (WATER) AND ITS USAGE IN THE NEW TESTAMENT (JOHN 2:1-11)

Abstract

Aquatic imagery permeates scriptural texts, serving diverse theological purposes. Throughout biblical literature, water frequently illustrates divine rejuvenation and the sustenance God provides. Conversely, it also functions as a motif for periods of profound adversity or hostile forces that believers must navigate and ultimately overcome, as seen in passages like 2 Samuel 22:17-18 and Psalms 18:16-17; 124:4-5. In both testamental covenants, aquatic terminology symbolizes the eternal salvation granted through faith in Christ, highlighted in Revelation 21:6 and 22:1. During His dialogue with the Samaritan woman, Christ utilized "living water" as a profound metaphor for His redemptive grace and eternal life (John 4:10-16). This Johannine motif of "living water" (ὕδωρ ζῶν) consistently directs believers toward the Holy Spirit, a connection explicitly drawn in John 7:37-39. Lexical examinations reinforce this, demonstrating that the Greek word ὕδωρ acts as a foundational symbol for spiritual regeneration within Johannine theology. Beyond this, scriptural metaphors liken water to divine assistance (Isaiah 8:6), divine judgment sweeping away refuges (Isaiah 28:17), the profound depths of human speech, and the deep-seated intentions of the human heart (Proverbs 20:5).