Brief Overview of ξέστης (Strong’s G3582: xestēs)

Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding key Greek words enhances our grasp of both the cultural and theological context in which they were used. One such word is ξέστης (xestēs), which appears in Mark 7:4. This word carries significance, particularly in the realm of everyday objects in the New Testament world. Its importance lies in its reference to a type of container, specifically a measure for liquids, which played a role in both daily life and ritual practices. The use of this term offers insight into the cultural and religious practices of the time, shedding light on how ordinary items intersected with sacred observances in ancient Jewish and Greek cultures.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: ξέστης (xestēs), pronounced xes-tace.

Etymology: Xestēs derives from the Greek verb xestō, meaning “to smooth” or “to scrape.” This etymology relates to the fact that containers like these were often made with smooth, polished surfaces for practical use in holding liquids.

Part of Speech: Xestēs is a noun, and in the New Testament, it refers to a liquid measure. Specifically, it denotes a vessel or jar used to measure liquids, with a capacity of about one pint or slightly more.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. Liquid Measure: The primary meaning of xestēs is that of a vessel or container for measuring liquids. In terms of volume, it is approximately equal to a pint. In Mark 7:4, the word is used in the context of Jewish purification rituals, referring to the washing of cups, pots, and other utensils, including xestai.

2. Jar or Jug: Beyond its technical use as a measure, xestēs also refers to a jar or jug used in household settings, especially for the storage and pouring of liquids, such as water or wine.

Exploring Similar Words

1. μετρητής (metrētēs) [pronunciation: met-ray-tace]: This word refers to a larger liquid measure, about 39 liters or 10 gallons. It differs from xestēs in scale, being much larger, used for bulk liquid measurement.

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2. ὑδρία (hydria) [pronunciation: hoo-dree-ah]: This word refers to a water jar, particularly one used to carry water from a well. Unlike xestēs, which focuses on precise measurement, hydria is more about water storage and transport.

3. ποτήριον (potērion) [pronunciation: pot-ay-ree-on]: This word means “cup” or “drinking vessel.” It is often used to refer to individual drinking cups, while xestēs is a larger container for storage or measurement.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: Xestēs is a masculine noun and follows the second declension in Greek. Its singular form is xestēs (nominative), xestou (genitive), and xeston (accusative). In the plural, it becomes xestai (nominative), xestōn (genitive), and xestous (accusative).

Declension: The second declension governs its forms, and it retains a consistent structure across cases, making it relatively straightforward in terms of morphological variation.

For further reading on Greek grammar, click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Across various Greek lexicons, xestēs is consistently defined as a liquid measure, used primarily for household and ritual purposes. In Mark 7:4, it is mentioned in the context of the Pharisees’ concern for ritual cleanliness, particularly in washing utensils used in daily life. Theologically, the word underscores the Jewish emphasis on purity and cleanliness, which extended even to mundane objects like measuring containers. Lexicons highlight that xestēs is more than a simple container; it also symbolizes the intersection of religious ritual with everyday life. Its classical usage in Greek culture outside the New Testament similarly denotes its role in everyday measurement and practical use.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Mark 7:4: “And when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.” (xestēs is translated as “pots” in this verse.)

2. Mark 7:8: “You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.” (While not explicitly mentioning xestēs, the context of this verse follows from the earlier mention of ritual washing in Mark 7:4.)

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Text

Herodotus Histories “They used xestai to measure out the liquids for their sacrifices.”

Aristotle Meteorology “Water was poured into a xestēs, and measurements were carefully observed.”

Septuagint 2 Kings 4:2 “She had only a small xestēs of oil.”

Noteworthy Summary

The word xestēs (Strong’s G3582) offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily and religious life of the ancient world. As both a liquid measure and a symbol of ritual purity, it bridges the gap between the ordinary and the sacred. In the New Testament, its use highlights the meticulous attention given to cleanliness and the broader significance of ritual practices in Jewish life. Understanding xestēs deepens our appreciation for how even the smallest details of daily life were imbued with spiritual meaning in the ancient world.

Did You Know?

1. The term xestēs was not only used in Jewish contexts but also widely in Greek culture, especially in relation to measurements for trading goods.

2. In ancient households, a xestēs would have been a common object, used not only in religious rituals but also for preparing food and drink.

3. The root of xestēs—meaning “to smooth”—reflects the polished or carefully made surfaces of these measuring containers, which were often crafted with great care to ensure accurate measurements.