### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **loúō**, represented by `{{G3068}}`, is a primary verb meaning to **bathe** the whole person. It is used to signify a complete washing, in contrast to νίπτω, which refers to wetting only a part of the body, or πλύνω, which is used exclusively for washing garments. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating its specific and significant application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3068}}` is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it describes compassionate care, as when the Philippian jailer **washed** the stripes of Paul and Silas [[Acts 16:33]], and the customary preparation of a body for burial, as when Tabitha’s body was **washed** [[Acts 9:37]]. Figuratively, it carries profound theological weight, such as in the statement that Jesus Christ has "**washed** us from our sins in his own blood" [[Revelation 1:5]]. A key distinction is made in [[John 13:10]], where Jesus explains that one who is already **washed** (bathed) only needs to wash his feet, illustrating the difference between a complete, foundational cleansing and daily purification.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of washing and purification:
* `{{G3538}}` **níptō**: The counterpart to **loúō**, this word means to wash a part of the body. It is used in [[John 13:10]] to describe the washing of feet, highlighting a partial cleansing in contrast to the full-body washing implied by **loúō**.
* `{{G2513}}` **katharós**: This word means **clean** or **pure**, often describing the state achieved after washing. It is used directly with `{{G3068}}` in [[Hebrews 10:22]], which speaks of having "our bodies washed with **pure** water," and in [[John 13:10]], where Jesus states that he who is washed is "**clean** every whit."
* `{{G4472}}` **rhantízō**: Meaning to **sprinkle** or asperse ceremonially, this word is used in parallel with `{{G3068}}` in [[Hebrews 10:22]]. The verse calls for hearts to be **sprinkled** from an evil conscience and bodies to be washed, connecting external washing to internal purification.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3068}}` is primarily focused on the totality of spiritual cleansing.
* **Washing from Sin:** The most powerful use of the term is in [[Revelation 1:5]], which directly attributes the washing from sin to the blood of Christ. This act is not partial but a complete removal of guilt.
* **Total vs. Partial Cleansing:** The dialogue in [[John 13:10]] establishes a foundational principle. Being "**washed**" `{{G3068}}` represents a complete, once-for-all salvation, after which only the "feet" require washing `{{G3538}}`, symbolizing the need for ongoing cleansing from the defilement of the world.
* **Figurative Purification:** The word is used to describe a spiritual readiness for approaching God, as seen in [[Hebrews 10:22]], where bodies "**washed** with pure water" is a component of drawing near in faith. In contrast, its use in the proverb of "the sow that was **washed**" [[2 Peter 2:22]] illustrates that an external washing without an internal change is futile.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3068}}` is a specific term that moves beyond simple hygiene to convey a concept of complete cleansing. Whether used for the literal washing of a body, as an act of compassion, or for the profound theological reality of being washed from sin by the blood of Christ, **loúō** consistently points to a thorough, all-encompassing washing that is distinct from partial or superficial cleaning.
TRV