John 13:5

Authorized King James Version

After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἶτα
After that
a particle of succession (in time or logical enumeration), then, moreover
#2
βάλλει
he poureth
to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense)
#3
ὕδωρ
water
water (as if rainy) literally or figuratively
#4
εἰς
into
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#5
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
νιπτῆρα
a bason
a ewer
#7
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#8
ἤρξατο
began
to commence (in order of time)
#9
νίπτειν
to wash
to cleanse (especially the hands or the feet or the face); ceremonially, to perform ablution
#10
τοὺς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
πόδας
feet
a "foot" (figuratively or literally)
#12
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
μαθητῶν
the disciples
a learner, i.e., pupil
#14
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#15
ἐκμάσσειν
to wipe
to knead out, i.e., (by analogy) to wipe dry
#16
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
λεντίῳ
them with the towel
a "linen" cloth, i.e., apron
#18
wherewith
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#19
ἦν
he was
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)
#20
διεζωσμένος
girded
to gird tightly

Analysis

This verse develops the divine love theme central to John. The concept of divine revelation reflects the essential nature of God revealed through Christ. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to theological biography emphasizing Jesus' divine identity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of divine love within the theological tradition of John Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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