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Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words used in Scripture is essential to grasp the full meaning and cultural significance of the text. The Greek word κολυμβήθρα (kolumbēthra), found in John 5:2, refers to a “pool” and is particularly significant for its theological and cultural connotations. This word appears in contexts where water is used for healing, cleansing, and symbolic representation of spiritual renewal. Exploring its usage offers insight into the practices of the ancient world and enriches our understanding of New Testament narratives, particularly in relation to healing and purification rituals.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κολυμβήθρα, transliterated as kolumbēthra [ko-loom-BAY-thrah].

Etymology: The word kolumbēthra comes from the root word κολυμβάω (kolumbaō), meaning “to swim.” The suffix -θρα (-thra) is a noun form that denotes a place associated with the root action. Thus, κολυμβήθρα directly translates to a “place for swimming,” often understood as a pool or a reservoir.

Part of Speech: Noun. Kolumbēthra is a feminine noun in Greek, typically appearing in the nominative singular form. Its function in the text usually relates to a specific location, such as the pools of Bethesda or Siloam mentioned in the New Testament.

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Defining Meanings

1. Pool: The primary meaning of κολυμβήθρα is “pool,” a place where water is collected for purposes such as bathing, swimming, or ritual washing. This is the sense in which it is most commonly used in the New Testament.
2. Reservoir or Water Basin: The term can also refer to a broader concept of a reservoir or water basin, where water is stored for various uses, including domestic, agricultural, or ritual purposes.
3. Place of Healing: In the context of John 5:2, kolumbēthra takes on the specific connotation of a place where healing occurs, emphasizing its spiritual and physical significance.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Λουτρόν (loutron) [LOO-tron]: Refers to a “bath” or “washing place,” often used metaphorically for spiritual cleansing in the New Testament. Unlike kolumbēthra, which is a pool, loutron focuses more on the act of washing itself.
2. Κρήνη (krēnē) [KRAY-nay]: Means “spring” or “fountain.” It differs from kolumbēthra in that it refers to a natural water source rather than a man-made pool or reservoir.
3. Δεξαμενή (dexamenē) [dex-ah-MEN-ay]: A term for a “cistern” or “storage tank” used for collecting and storing water. This is different from kolumbēthra as it is designed for storage rather than active use for swimming or washing.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: Kolumbēthra is a feminine noun and appears in different cases (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative) depending on its grammatical function within the sentence. The singular form is most common as it usually refers to a specific pool or location.

Declension: Kolumbēthra belongs to the first declension in Greek. Below is a declension table for reference:

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The word κολυμβήθρα appears in various contexts within New Testament literature and other Greek writings, often associated with healing and purification. In John 5:2, it describes the pool of Bethesda, where people believed an angel would stir the waters for healing. This use highlights both the physical and spiritual implications of water in ancient Jewish and early Christian practices. In classical literature, the word was often used in a more secular sense to describe any pool used for swimming or bathing. The theological implication in the New Testament, however, adds a layer of meaning regarding divine intervention and grace. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. John 5:2: “Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool [kolumbēthra], which is called in Hebrew, Bethesda, having five porches.”
2. John 9:7: “And He said to him, ‘Go, wash in the pool [kolumbēthra] of Siloam’ (which is translated, Sent). So he went and washed, and came back seeing.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κολυμβήθρα (kolumbēthra) offers rich insight into the cultural and theological settings of the New Testament. It signifies not just a physical pool but a place of divine encounter and healing, as seen in the narratives of the pools of Bethesda and Siloam. This dual significance underscores the intersection of physical and spiritual in Biblical thought.

Did You Know?

1. The Pool of Bethesda, where kolumbēthra is mentioned, was discovered in Jerusalem in the 19th century, confirming the biblical narrative’s historical accuracy.
2. In ancient Jewish tradition, pools were often associated with ritual purification rites, adding layers of meaning to their New Testament mentions.
3. The word kolumbēthra also appears in secular contexts, highlighting its common use in describing public amenities in Greco-Roman cities.