### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **bréchō**, represented by `{{G1026}}`, is a primary verb defined as to moisten, especially by a shower, and is translated as (send) rain or wash. It appears **8 times** across **6 unique verses**, carrying a dual meaning that encompasses both natural weather and profound personal actions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1026}}` is most frequently used to describe the act of raining. It illustrates God's common grace, as He "sendeth **rain** on the just and on the unjust" [[Matthew 5:45]]. The term also appears in the context of divine judgment, as it **rained** fire and brimstone from heaven in the days of Lot [[Luke 17:29]]. In a different context, the word signifies a personal act of worship and repentance, as when a weeping woman "began to **wash** his feet with tears" [[Luke 7:38]]. The power over rain is also a theme, seen when Elias prayed that it might not **rain** [[James 5:17]] and when the two witnesses in Revelation are given power to shut heaven so it does not **rain** [[Revelation 11:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used alongside `{{G1026}}`, particularly in the account of the woman washing Jesus' feet, which adds depth to the scene:
* `{{G2799}}` **klaíō** (to sob, i.e. wail aloud): This word describes the act of **weeping** that produced the tears used to wash Jesus' feet [[Luke 7:38]].
* `{{G1144}}` **dákry** (a tear): These **tears** are the very substance with which the woman **washed** his feet, highlighting an act of deep emotion and humility ([[Luke 7:38]], [[Luke 7:44]]).
* `{{G1591}}` **ekmássō** (to wipe dry): This action follows the washing, as the woman **wiped** his feet with her hair, completing her act of devotion ([[Luke 7:38]], [[Luke 7:44]]).
* `{{G218}}` **aleíphō** (to oil (with perfume)): After washing and wiping his feet, she **anointed** them, adding another layer of honor and reverence to her actions [[Luke 7:38]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1026}}` is expressed in its varied applications:
* **Divine Provision:** The word is used to describe God's impartial care for all creation, as he **sends rain** on both the righteous and the unrighteous [[Matthew 5:45]].
* **Divine Judgment:** It serves as a verb for divine retribution, where God **rained** fire and brimstone upon Sodom, destroying them all [[Luke 17:29]].
* **Prophetic Power:** The control of rain is presented as a sign of authority from God, granted to figures like Elias and the two prophetic witnesses ([[James 5:17]], [[Revelation 11:6]]).
* **Humble Worship:** The act of using tears to **wash** feet elevates the word from a simple utility to an expression of profound repentance and love, contrasted by Jesus with his host's failure to provide even water [[Luke 7:44]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1026}}` is a versatile verb that connects the vast, impersonal power of nature with intimate, personal acts of devotion. While it commonly refers to literal **rain** as an instrument of God's provision, judgment, or prophetic power, its use in the context of a woman **washing** Jesus' feet with her tears gives it a deeply personal and spiritual weight. The word illustrates how a common physical action can signify profound theological truths.
TRV