John 2:6
And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.
Original Language Analysis
κατὰ
after
G2596
κατὰ
after
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
8 of 18
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καθαρισμὸν
the manner of the purifying
G2512
καθαρισμὸν
the manner of the purifying
Strong's:
G2512
Word #:
10 of 18
a washing off, i.e., (ceremonially) ablution, (morally) expiation
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
χωροῦσαι
containing
G5562
χωροῦσαι
containing
Strong's:
G5562
Word #:
13 of 18
to be in (give) space, i.e., (intransitively) to pass, enter, or (transitively) to hold, admit (literally or figuratively)
ἀνὰ
apiece
G303
ἀνὰ
apiece
Strong's:
G303
Word #:
14 of 18
properly, up; but (by extension) used (distributively) severally, or (locally) at (etc.)
Cross References
John 3:25Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying.Hebrews 9:10Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.Ephesians 5:26That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,Hebrews 6:2Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.Hebrews 9:19For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people,Hebrews 10:22Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
Historical Context
Jewish purity laws required ritual hand washing before meals. Stone vessels were preferred because they didn't contract ritual impurity like clay. The six jars (one short of seven, the number of completion) may symbolize the incompleteness of the old covenant that Jesus fulfills.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the transformation of purification water into wine picture the relationship between law and grace?
- What 'stone jars' of religious ritual might need to be filled with Christ's new wine in your life?
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Analysis & Commentary
The six stone water jars 'after the manner of the purifying of the Jews' held water for ritual washing. Each contained 20-30 gallons—120-180 gallons total. The stone material indicated these were for purification use. Jesus transforms vessels of ceremonial cleansing into containers of celebratory wine. The old covenant's cleansing rituals give way to new covenant abundance. Water for washing becomes wine for rejoicing.