The Greek word metrētḗs, represented by G3355, refers to a specific unit of measure for liquids, translated as a firkin. Derived from a word meaning "to measure," it serves as a standard of capacity. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in the entire Bible, within a single verse.
The sole appearance of G3355 is in John 2:6, which describes the setting for Jesus' first recorded miracle. The verse states, "And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece" John 2:6. The word provides a specific measurement for the capacity of the stone waterpots, quantifying the volume of water that was to be transformed.
The context of G3355 in John 2:6 connects it to several other key Greek words:
- G5201 hydría: A water-jar or receptacle for a family's water supply. These were the vessels designated for the miracle. A woman at a well also left her waterpot to go into the city John 4:28.
- G3035 líthinos: This means stony, i.e. made of stone. The waterpots were explicitly described as being made of stone John 2:6, distinguishing them from other materials like idols of gold, silver, and wood Revelation 9:20.
- G2512 katharismós: This refers to ceremonial ablution or purification. The waterpots were present for the rite of purifying of the Jews John 2:6. The term is also used in a moral sense, as when Christ purged our sins Hebrews 1:3.
- G2453 Ioudaîos: Meaning a Jew or belonging to Judæa. The purification rite was a custom of the Jews John 2:6, the people from whom salvation comes John 4:22.
- G5562 chōréō: This means to hold or contain. Each of the six waterpots was containing a significant volume measured in firkins John 2:6. Figuratively, it is said the world itself could not contain the books if all of Jesus's deeds were written John 21:25.
The significance of G3355 is derived entirely from its singular context, adding a layer of tangible detail to a pivotal event.
- Quantifying the Miracle: By specifying that each of the six waterpots held two or three firkins, the text emphasizes the immense quantity of water involved. This detail underscores the sheer scale and abundance of the miracle.
- Fulfillment of Ritual: The waterpots G5201 were intended for the purifying G2512 of the Jews G2453. The use of these specific vessels for the miracle connects Jesus's actions to the religious customs of the time.
- Grounded in Reality: The description of the vessels as being made of stone G3035 and having a specific capacity G3355 grounds the narrative in physical reality. These are not symbolic objects but real-world items used in an extraordinary way.
In summary, G3355 metrētḗs is a term of measurement whose importance comes from its exclusive use in the account of Jesus turning water into wine. While it appears only once, it provides a crucial detail that defines the scope of the miracle. Its presence within the context of the Jewish purification ritual links the old ceremonial practices with the new power and abundance demonstrated by Jesus.
TRV