Brief Overview of πλύνω (Strong’s G4150: plynō)
Strong’s G4150: A verb meaning “to wash, cleanse, or rinse,” particularly of clothes or fabrics. In ancient Greek, it described thorough washing. In New Testament usage, it appears metaphorically in Revelation describing spiritual cleansing through Christ’s blood.
U- Unveiling the Word
πλύνω represents thorough washing or cleansing, particularly of garments. In its sole New Testament appearance, it takes on profound theological significance in describing the washing of robes in the Lamb’s blood, symbolizing complete spiritual purification. Early church fathers emphasized this imagery in discussions of baptism and spiritual cleansing. Today, it continues to express the transformative power of Christ’s blood to cleanse believers completely.
N – Necessary Information
- Greek Word: πλύνω, plynō, /PLEE-no/
- Detailed pronunciation: PLEE-no (emphasis on first syllable)
- Part of Speech: Verb
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Etymology:
- Root: πλυ- (ply-) meaning “to wash”
- Basic verb form without prefix or suffix
- Ancient Indo-European root *pleu- “to flow”
D – Defining Meanings
- To wash
- To cleanse thoroughly
- To rinse clean
For compound words: Not a compound word, but serves as root for compounds
Translation Options:
- To wash – Basic meaning
- To cleanse – Emphasizes purification
- To rinse – Highlights thoroughness
E – Exploring Similar Words
- νίπτω (niptō) /NIP-to/ – to wash, particularly parts of body
See G3538 - λούω (louō) /LOO-oh/ – to bathe, wash whole body
See G3068
R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
Verb Features:
- Tense: Present, Future, Aorist, Perfect
- Voice: Active, Middle, Passive
- Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Imperative
- Person: First, Second, Third
- Number: Singular, Plural
Examples:
Present: πλύνω (I wash)
Future: πλυνῶ (I will wash)
Aorist: ἔπλυνα (I washed)
Perfect: πέπλυκα (I have washed)
- Cross-references to related compound verbs
S – Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes its technical usage for fabric cleaning. Thayer’s notes its metaphorical application. LSJ documents extensive usage in cleaning contexts. Vine’s highlights its spiritual significance. Strong’s connects it to thorough cleansing. LEH provides Septuagint usage patterns. Moulton and Milligan cite examples from washing instructions.
T – Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
“These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” Revelation 7:14
A – Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author: Work | Text |
|---|---|
| Homer: Odyssey | “The maidens washed the garments in clear water” |
| Aristophanes: Wasps | “She cleaned the cloak until it shone” |
| Herodotus: Histories | “The priests washed their sacred robes daily” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
πλύνω powerfully illustrates the complete cleansing available through Christ’s blood. Just as clothes are thoroughly washed clean, believers are made pure through the Lamb’s sacrifice. This word reminds us that spiritual cleansing is both thorough and transformative.
D – Did You Know?
- The term was used in ancient laundry trade documents.
- Early baptismal liturgies often referenced this word.
- It influenced early Christian art depicting washing of robes.
Strong’s G4150: A verb denoting thorough washing or cleansing, particularly of garments. In New Testament usage, it appears metaphorically in Revelation to describe spiritual purification through Christ’s blood, emphasizing complete transformation.
Part of speech: Verb
Tags: washing, cleansing, purification, Revelation, blood of the Lamb, biblical Greek, spiritual cleansing, transformation, salvation, baptism, purity, redemption
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