### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kolymbḗthra**, represented by `{{G2861}}`, is defined as a diving-place or a pond for bathing, meaning a **pool**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying its role as a specific and noteworthy location.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2861}}` is used exclusively in the Gospel of John to identify two locations of healing in Jerusalem. One is the **pool** at the sheep market called Bethesda, which had five porches [[John 5:2]]. This **pool** was known as a place where an angel would trouble the water, and the first person to enter would be healed [[John 5:4]]. The other is the **pool** of Siloam, where Jesus sent a blind man to **wash** in order to receive his sight ([[John 9:7]], [[John 9:11]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the actions that take place at a `{{G2861}}` **pool**:
* `{{G5015}}` **tarássō** (to stir or agitate): This word describes the stirring of the **water** `{{G5204}}` at the pool of Bethesda, the event which initiated the opportunity for healing ([[John 5:4]], [[John 5:7]]).
* `{{G3538}}` **níptō** (λούω): This word is used for the command to **wash**. It is the specific action the blind man had to take at the pool of Siloam, and his obedience to **wash** resulted in his sight being restored ([[John 9:7]], [[John 9:11]]).
* `{{G2597}}` **katabaínō** (to descend): This term is used to describe an angel **going down** into the pool of Bethesda, and also the action of people stepping **down** into the water to be healed ([[John 5:4]], [[John 5:7]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2861}}` is tied to its role as a site for divine works.
* **Locus of Miraculous Healing:** The **pool** serves as a physical location where supernatural healing occurs, both through angelic intervention at Bethesda [[John 5:4]] and through obedience to Christ's command at Siloam [[John 9:7]].
* **Requirement of Action:** Healing at these pools required an act of faith. At Siloam, the man had to follow the instruction to go and **wash** [[John 9:11]]. At Bethesda, a person had to physically enter the **pool** at the right moment [[John 5:7]].
* **Instrument of Divine Purpose:** Jesus uses the **pool** of Siloam as an instrument in His miracle. He specifically directs the blind man to the **pool** after anointing his eyes with **clay** `{{G4081}}` as the final step in restoring his sight [[John 9:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2861}}` is more than a simple pond for bathing; it is a key setting in the New Testament narrative. It functions as a stage for miracles, illustrating themes of healing, faith, and obedience. The stories of the **pool** of Bethesda and the **pool** of Siloam demonstrate how God can use specific, physical places to manifest His power and purpose.
TRV