### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **loutrón**, represented by `{{G3067}}`, refers to a **bath** or, more significantly, a figurative **washing**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, where its meaning is tied directly to the concept of spiritual cleansing and baptism.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3067}}` is exclusively metaphorical, describing a profound spiritual transformation. In [[Titus 3:5]], it is presented as the "**washing** of regeneration," a means by which God saves people according to His mercy, not by their own works. Similarly, in [[Ephesians 5:26]], the church is cleansed "with the **washing** of water by the word," an act of sanctification initiated by Christ. Both instances link this washing to a divine, purifying action.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of this spiritual cleansing:
* `{{G3824}}` **palingenesía** ( (spiritual) rebirth ... regeneration): This term is directly connected to the washing in [[Titus 3:5]], defining the event as a spiritual rebirth. It is also used to describe a Messianic restoration [[Matthew 19:28]].
* `{{G2511}}` **katharízō** (to cleanse (literally or figuratively)): Paired with washing in [[Ephesians 5:26]], this word emphasizes the purifying outcome. Its usage extends to purging believers from sin through the blood of Christ [[1 John 1:7]].
* `{{G342}}` **anakaínōsis** (renovation:--renewing): In [[Titus 3:5]], this word follows the "washing of regeneration," highlighting that the act results in a fundamental renewal, such as the "renewing of your mind" [[Romans 12:2]].
* `{{G37}}` **hagiázō** (to make holy ... sanctify): This is the ultimate purpose of the washing in [[Ephesians 5:26]]. The goal is to set the believer apart as holy, a concept also seen when Jesus prays, "**Sanctify** them through thy truth" [[John 17:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3067}}` is focused on the mechanics of salvation and sanctification.
* **Instrument of Regeneration:** The "washing" is presented as the specific event through which spiritual rebirth occurs. In [[Titus 3:5]], salvation from sin is accomplished "by the **washing** of regeneration."
* **Sanctification by the Word:** In [[Ephesians 5:26]], the "**washing** of water" is explicitly linked "by the word," indicating that the cleansing power is found in the truth of God, which sets the church apart.
* **Mercy over Works:** The context of [[Titus 3:5]] firmly establishes that this cleansing is a gift of God's mercy, completely separate from any "works of righteousness which we have done."
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3067}}` is a concise but powerful term that moves beyond a literal bath to symbolize a definitive spiritual event. Though used only twice, it serves as a cornerstone for understanding how God enacts salvation and sanctification. It illustrates a washing that regenerates, renews, and purifies, accomplished not by human effort but by divine mercy and the power of His word.
TRV