### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun "niptḗr" (νιπτήρ), Strong's number `{{G3537}}`, is derived from the verb "niptō" (νίπτω), meaning "to wash" or "to cleanse," specifically referring to the washing of parts of the body, such as hands or feet. Consequently, "niptḗr" denotes an implement used for such washing, most accurately translated as a "basin" or "ewer." Its core meaning is that of a vessel designed to hold water for the purpose of ablution, particularly for the feet or hands. The semantic range is quite narrow, precisely indicating its functional role as a container for water in a cleansing ritual or act.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word "niptḗr" appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of John:
* [[John 13:5]]: "Then he poured water into a *basin* and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel with which he was girded."
The context is the Last Supper, a moment of intimate instruction and profound symbolic action by Jesus. In this passage, Jesus, the Lord and Teacher, takes on the role of a humble servant, performing a task (foot-washing) that was typically assigned to the lowest-ranking servant in a household. The "niptḗr" is an essential prop in this demonstration of radical humility and servant leadership. It is not merely an incidental object but integral to the performance of an act that challenges hierarchical norms and establishes a new paradigm for discipleship. The basin facilitates the physical act of washing, which, in turn, conveys deep spiritual truths about service, purification, and identification with Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **νίπτω (niptō)** `{{G3538}}`: This is the root verb from which "niptḗr" is derived. It specifically refers to washing parts of the body (hands, feet, face), distinguishing it from "louō" (λούω), which means to bathe the entire body. Understanding the action of "niptō" illuminates the specific purpose of the "niptḗr."
* **λούω (louō)** `{{G3068}}`: As mentioned, this verb signifies washing the entire body. The contrast between "niptō" and "louō" highlights the localized nature of the washing facilitated by the "niptḗr," focusing on the feet as a specific act of service and symbolic cleansing.
* **καθαρίζω (katharizō)** `{{G2511}}`: Meaning "to cleanse" or "to purify," this word often carries a broader moral or ritualistic connotation. While "niptō" describes the physical act, "katharizō" can describe the spiritual outcome, as Jesus alludes to spiritual cleanliness in [[John 13:10]] regarding those who are "clean."
* **δοῦλος (doulos)** `{{G1401}}`: "Slave" or "servant." The act of using the "niptḗr" for foot-washing was typically a task performed by a slave for guests, making Jesus's performance of this act a profound reversal of roles and a powerful demonstration of His servant heart ([[Philippians 2:7]]).
* **περίζωμα (perizōma)** `{{G4025}}`: "Towel" or "apron." In [[John 13:4]], Jesus girds Himself with a towel, which is used in conjunction with the "niptḗr" for the act of washing and drying. These two items are inextricably linked in the narrative of the foot-washing.
### Theological Significance
The "niptḗr," though a simple household item, is imbued with profound theological significance due to its singular appearance in the New Testament narrative of Jesus washing His disciples' feet.
1. **Symbol of Humility and Service:** The primary theological lesson conveyed through Jesus's use of the "niptḗr" is that of radical humility and servant leadership. By taking on the role of the lowest servant, Jesus overturns conventional power structures and teaches His disciples that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is found in self-sacrificial service to others ([[Mark 10:43-45]]). The basin becomes a tangible instrument of this counter-cultural ethos.
2. **Necessity of Purification:** Beyond the lesson of humility, the act of foot-washing also carries a dimension of spiritual purification. Jesus states, "If I do not wash you, you have no share with me" ([[John 13:8]]). While the disciples were already "clean" in a broader sense (referring to their faith), this specific act signifies the ongoing need for cleansing from the defilements of daily life and a deeper participation in Christ's redemptive work. The "niptḗr" facilitates this symbolic cleansing, emphasizing the necessity of Christ's work for spiritual fellowship.
3. **Example for Discipleship:** Jesus explicitly commands His disciples to follow His example: "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you" ([[John 13:14-15]]). The "niptḗr" thus represents the practical means by which disciples are to embody Christ's love and humility in their interactions with one another.
### Summary
The Greek word "niptḗr" (νιπτήρ), Strong's number `{{G3537}}`, refers to a basin or ewer, derived from the verb "niptō" (to wash parts of the body). Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[John 13:5]] is pivotal, as Jesus uses it to wash His disciples' feet. This act transforms the simple "niptḗr" into a profound theological symbol. It embodies Jesus's radical demonstration of humble servant leadership, challenging earthly notions of status and power. Furthermore, the basin is instrumental in an act that signifies the ongoing need for spiritual purification and the necessity of participation in Christ's cleansing work. Ultimately, the "niptḗr" serves as a tangible reminder of the call to Christian discipleship, urging believers to emulate Christ's example of self-giving love and service to others.
TRV