from ἐκ and the base of μασσάομαι; to knead out, i.e. (by analogy) to wipe dry:--wipe.
Transliteration:ekmássō
Pronunciation:ek-mas'-so
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἐκμάσσω (ekmássō, `{{G1591}}`) is a compound verb derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek), meaning "out from" or "completely," and the base of μασσάομαι (massáomai), which signifies "to knead" or "to press." Etymologically, it conveys the idea of "to knead out" or "to press out," implying a thorough and complete action. By analogy, this primary physical sense extends to "to wipe dry," "to wipe clean," or "to wipe off." The emphasis is on the complete removal of moisture, dirt, or residue through rubbing or pressing. In its New Testament usage, it consistently carries this analogous meaning of wiping, often in the context of drying or cleansing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb ἐκμάσσω (ekmássō, `{{G1591}}`) appears exclusively in the Gospel of John, specifically in three pivotal narratives:
* **Mary's Anointing at Bethany:** In [[John 11:2]] and [[John 12:3]], Mary, the sister of Lazarus, is depicted anointing Jesus' feet with costly perfume and then wiping them with her hair. This act is one of profound devotion and humility, demonstrating extravagant love and worship. The use of her hair, a woman's glory, to perform such a menial task underscores the depth of her reverence.
* **Jesus Washing the Disciples' Feet:** In [[John 13:5]], Jesus Himself, as an act of humble service, washes His disciples' feet and then proceeds to wipe them with a towel (λέντιον, `{{G3012}}`). This action is central to His teaching on servant leadership and mutual love among believers. The act of wiping (ἐκμάσσω) here completes the cleansing, preparing the feet for further movement, and symbolically, the disciples for their mission. The subsequent dialogue in [[John 13:6]] and [[John 13:12]] further emphasizes the significance of this act.
In all occurrences, ἐκμάσσω describes a physical act of wiping, characterized by thoroughness and intimacy. It is not merely a superficial touch but a complete removal of what is present, whether it be oil or water. The contexts consistently involve feet, highlighting themes of humble service, personal devotion, and purification.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several terms and concepts are closely associated with ἐκμάσσω (ekmássō, `{{G1591}}`):
* νίπτω (niptō, `{{G3538}}`): To wash, often specifically referring to hands or feet. This verb frequently precedes ἐκμάσσω, as seen in Jesus' foot-washing, where He first washes (νίπτω) and then wipes (ἐκμάσσω).
* ἀλείφω (aleiphō, `{{G218}}`): To anoint. Mary's act of anointing Jesus' feet precedes her wiping them with her hair.
* πούς (pous, `{{G4228}}`): Foot. The object of the action of wiping in every instance.
* θρίξ (thrix, `{{G2359}}`): Hair. Used by Mary to wipe Jesus' feet, signifying a deeply personal and humble gesture.
* λέντιον (lentios, `{{G3012}}`): Towel. Used by Jesus to wipe the disciples' feet, symbolizing the garment of a servant.
* The broader concepts of humility, service, purification, and intimate devotion are intrinsically linked to the actions described by ἐκμάσσω.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἐκμάσσω (ekmássō, `{{G1591}}`) is profound, primarily stemming from its use in the narratives of Mary's devotion and Jesus' humble service:
* **Exemplar of Humility and Service:** Jesus' act of washing and wiping the disciples' feet in [[John 13]] stands as a powerful paradigm for Christian humility and servant leadership. The Son of God performs the lowest task, demonstrating that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is found in self-sacrificial service to others. This act challenges hierarchical structures and calls believers to emulate Christ's example.
* **Expression of Profound Devotion:** Mary's wiping of Jesus' feet with her hair, following her anointing, is an act of extravagant love and worship. It signifies a complete surrender and intimate devotion that transcends social norms and expectations. This act is commended by Jesus as a beautiful and prophetic preparation for His burial, highlighting its spiritual depth.
* **Symbol of Cleansing and Purity:** While the primary meaning is to wipe dry, the context of foot-washing connects ἐκμάσσω to the broader theme of cleansing. Jesus' words about being "clean all over" ([[John 13:10]]) link the physical act of washing and wiping to spiritual purification, necessary for fellowship with Him. The thoroughness implied by ἐκμάσσω suggests a complete removal of defilement.
* **Intimacy and Accessibility:** The act of wiping feet, whether by Mary or Jesus, is deeply intimate. It speaks to the personal and accessible nature of Christ's relationship with His followers and the depth of devotion expected in return.
### Summary
The Greek verb ἐκμάσσω (ekmássō, `{{G1591}}`) literally means "to knead out" or "to press out," but in the New Testament, it is consistently used in the analogous sense of "to wipe dry" or "to wipe clean" with thoroughness. Its occurrences are limited to the Gospel of John, where it describes Mary's act of wiping Jesus' feet with her hair after anointing them, and Jesus' own act of wiping His disciples' feet with a towel after washing them. Theologically, ἐκμάσσω underscores critical themes of profound humility and servant leadership exemplified by Christ, extravagant love and devotion shown by Mary, and the necessity of spiritual cleansing and intimate fellowship with the Savior. The careful, complete action implied by the word highlights the significance of these acts in the narrative of God's redemptive plan.
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