Pronunciation Guide: ant-LEH-oh (ἀντλέω)

Basic Definition

Strong’s G501: ἀντλέω (antleō) refers to the specific action of drawing up water, typically from a well or deep source. The term carries connotations of both the physical labor involved in water collection and the purposeful gathering of water for use. In biblical contexts, it often appears in narratives involving water sources and carries deeper spiritual significance regarding provision and service.

Etymology and Morphology

• Part of Speech: Verb
• Etymology: From ἄντλος (antlos), meaning the hold of a ship where bilge-water collects
• Primary Usage: Narrative sections, particularly in John’s Gospel
• Voice: Active and Middle
• Tense: Present and Aorist most common

ἀντλέω Morphology:

• ἀντλέω (present active indicative) – I draw water
• ἀντλήσατε (aorist active imperative) – Draw! (command to multiple people)
• ἀντλῶν (present active participle) – drawing water
• ἤντλησαν (aorist active indicative) – they drew water

Origin & History

The word ἀντλέω originates from maritime terminology, specifically referring to the critical task of bailing water from a ship’s hold. Xenophon, in his “Oeconomicus” (VII.40), uses the term to describe the essential maintenance of vessels. The term evolved beyond its nautical origins to encompass the general action of drawing water from any source.

In the Septuagint, while the exact form ἀντλέω is less common, related terms for water-drawing appear in significant passages such as the narrative of Rebekah at the well (Genesis 24). The concept becomes particularly meaningful in Hellenistic Jewish literature, where water-drawing takes on both practical and spiritual significance.

Expanded Definitions & Translation Options

• To draw up (water from a deep source)
• To bail out (water from a vessel)
• To collect or gather (liquid)
• To serve by providing water

ἀντλέω Translation Options:

• “to draw water” – Most common and literal translation, emphasizing the physical action
• “to draw up” – Emphasizing the upward motion from a lower source
• “to bail out” – In maritime contexts
• “to serve (water)” – When emphasizing the service aspect of the action

Biblical Usage

The term ἀντλέω appears most prominently in John’s Gospel, particularly in the narrative of the wedding at Cana (John 2:8). Here, the word carries both literal and symbolic significance, as the servants draw water that becomes wine, demonstrating the Messiah’s transformative power.

This word choice is particularly significant as it emphasizes the physical labor involved in drawing water, typically from deep wells, highlighting the servants’ obedience and the miraculous nature of the transformation.

• “And He said to them, ‘Draw some out now’ [ἀντλήσατε]” (John 2:8)
• “Sir, you have nothing to draw with [ἀντλήσατε]” (John 4:11)
• “The servants who had drawn [ἠντληκότες] the water knew” (John 2:9)

Cultural Insights

In ancient Middle Eastern culture, water-drawing was a daily necessity that often defined social interactions and community life. Wells served as gathering places where important conversations and connections occurred. The physical act of drawing water required specific tools, including leather buckets (known as deloi) attached to ropes, making it a labor-intensive but essential task.

The timing of water-drawing was also significant, typically done in the early morning or evening to avoid the heat of the day. This context adds depth to the narrative of the Samaritan woman, who came at an unusual hour, indicating her social status and the transformative nature of her encounter with the Messiah.

Theological Significance

The use of ἀντλέω in biblical narratives often points to themes of Divine provision and transformation. In the wedding at Cana, the routine task of drawing water becomes the setting for the Messiah’s first miracle, demonstrating how God often works through ordinary actions to display His extraordinary power.

The term also connects to broader theological themes of spiritual thirst and Divine satisfaction. Just as physical water must be drawn from deep sources, spiritual sustenance comes through active engagement with God’s provision. This concept is particularly powerful in the dialogue with the Samaritan woman, where physical water-drawing becomes a metaphor for spiritual refreshment.

Personal Application

When we understand the significance of ἀντλέω, we’re reminded that God often works through our willing participation in seemingly mundane tasks. Just as the servants at Cana drew water in obedience, not knowing the miracle to come, we’re called to faithful service even when we don’t see the full picture.

This word encourages us to view our daily tasks through a spiritual lens, recognizing that any action done in obedience to God can become a vessel for His miraculous work. It challenges us to be faithful in the small things, knowing that God can transform our ordinary acts of service into extraordinary demonstrations of His glory.

Related Words

• ὑδρεύω (hydreuō) – to fetch water, emphasizing the gathering aspect – See G5203
• βαπτίζω (baptizō) – to dip, immerse, relating to water but for cleansing/ritual purposes – See G907
• ποτίζω (potizō) – to give drink, focusing on the provision of water – See G4222
• πηγάζω (pēgazō) – to gush forth, describing water’s source – See G4076

Did you Know?

• The physical act of drawing water from ancient wells could require up to 50 feet of rope and a leather bucket, making it a significant undertaking that required both strength and skill.
• In modern Greek, ἀντλέω has evolved to be used in mechanical contexts, such as pumping gas or drawing water through mechanical means, showing how the basic concept has adapted to technological advancement while maintaining its core meaning.
• The traditional Jewish water-drawing ceremony (Simchat Beit HaShoevah) during Sukkot provides a fascinating connection to this word’s significance, as it celebrated both physical and spiritual water provision.

Remember This

ἀντλέω reminds us that in God’s economy, no task is truly mundane—even drawing water can become the setting for Divine transformation when done in faithful obedience.