### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **níptō**, represented by `{{G3538}}`, refers to the act of washing a part of the body. It appears **19 times** across **13 unique verses** in the Bible. While its base definition is related to `{{G3068}}` **loúō** (to bathe the whole person), **níptō** is used specifically to describe washing extremities such as the hands, feet, or face.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3538}}` is used in several significant contexts. Its most notable use is when Jesus **washes** the disciples' feet, an act he presents as a model for mutual service [[John 13:14]]. The act is so central that when Peter initially refuses, Jesus tells him, "If I **wash** thee not, thou hast no part with me" [[John 13:8]]. The word also appears in the context of healing, where Jesus commands a blind man to "**wash**" in the pool of Siloam to receive his sight [[John 9:7]]. Elsewhere, it is used regarding religious tradition, as the Pharisees held that one must **wash** their hands before eating [[Mark 7:3]], and in personal devotion, where Jesus advises believers to "**wash** thy face" when fasting [[Matthew 6:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and context of **níptō**:
* `{{G3068}}` **loúō**: This verb means **to bathe (the whole person)**. It is used in direct contrast to `{{G3538}}` to distinguish between a full-body washing and a partial one, as when Jesus explains that one who is already **washed** only needs to **wash** his feet to be completely clean [[John 13:10]].
* `{{G3537}}` **niptḗr**: Meaning **a ewer** or **bason**, this noun is the vessel from which water is taken for washing. Jesus "poureth water into a **bason**" before he begins to **wash** the disciples' feet [[John 13:5]].
* `{{G1591}}` **ekmássō**: This word for **to wipe dry** describes the action that completes the washing. In the same act of service, Jesus began not only to wash the disciples' feet but also "to **wipe** them with the towel" [[John 13:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3538}}` is demonstrated through its symbolic applications.
* **Exemplary Humility:** The act of Jesus washing the disciples' feet establishes a powerful model of leadership as service. His command, "ye also ought to **wash** one another's feet," transforms a common act of hospitality into a mandate for mutual humility among believers [[John 13:14]].
* **Prerequisite for Fellowship:** The washing is presented as necessary for having a relationship with Jesus. When Peter refuses, Jesus' response, "If I **wash** thee not, thou hast no part with me," links this physical act to spiritual communion [[John 13:8]].
* **Instrument of Healing:** The command to the blind man to "**wash**" is not merely a cleansing act but the very means by which his sight is restored, connecting the physical washing to a miraculous work of God [[John 9:7]].
* **Ritual vs. Sincere Devotion:** The word is used to describe the Pharisees' adherence to "the tradition of the elders" in washing hands [[Matthew 15:2]], while also being used by Jesus to instruct on fasting in a way that is not for outward appearance [[Matthew 6:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3538}}` **níptō** is more than a simple word for washing. While it literally refers to washing a part of the body, such as the hands or feet, its biblical usage elevates it to a symbol of profound spiritual truth. It serves as a picture of humble service, a condition for fellowship with Christ, and a means of divine healing. From the ceremonial hand washing of the Pharisees to Jesus's transformative act of washing feet, **níptō** illustrates how an ordinary action can convey extraordinary theological meaning.
TRV