### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pēlós**, represented by `{{G4081}}`, is a term for **clay**. It appears 6 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. This word refers to the earthen material used both in a literal, physical sense and as a powerful metaphor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4081}}` is used in two primary contexts. In the Gospel of John, it is the material Jesus **made** `{{G4160}}` from his **spittle** `{{G4427}}` to heal a blind man [[John 9:6]]. After making the **clay**, Jesus **anointed** `{{G2025}}` the man's eyes with it and instructed him to wash, which led to his sight being restored [[John 9:11]]. This act of making **clay** `{{G4081}}` notably occurred on the Sabbath [[John 9:14]]. The second context is in Romans, where it is used metaphorically to question whether the **potter** `{{G2763}}` has power over the **clay** `{{G4081}}` to make from the same **lump** `{{G5445}}` one vessel for honor and another for dishonor [[Romans 9:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the use and meaning of `{{G4081}}`:
* `{{G2763}}` **kerameús** (a potter): This term for a **potter** is directly paired with **clay** in the metaphor illustrating God's sovereignty over His creation [[Romans 9:21]].
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This verb describes the action of forming the **clay**, both when Jesus **made** the substance for healing [[John 9:14]] and when the potter is described as **making** vessels [[Romans 9:21]].
* `{{G2025}}` **epichríō** (to smear over): This word details the specific application of the **clay** in the healing miracle, as Jesus used it **to smear over**, or anoint, the eyes of the blind man ([[John 9:6]], [[John 9:11]]).
* `{{G5445}}` **phýrama** (a mass of dough): This is the source material from which vessels are formed, described as the "same **lump**" of clay over which the potter has power [[Romans 9:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4081}}` is expressed through its distinct applications:
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The image of the **potter** `{{G2763}}` working with **clay** `{{G4081}}` powerfully illustrates God's absolute authority. He has the right to shape His creation for different purposes, making one vessel for honor and another for dishonor from the same **lump** [[Romans 9:21]].
* **Instrument of Healing:** In John's Gospel, **clay** becomes a physical medium for a divine miracle. Jesus **made** `{{G4160}}` it from the ground and his own spittle, demonstrating his ability to use humble, earthly elements to bring about supernatural restoration of sight ([[John 9:6]], [[John 9:11]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4081}}` is far more than simple mud. It is used in scripture to convey profound truths about the relationship between the Creator and the created. As a literal substance, it is an instrument of miraculous power in the hands of Jesus [[John 9:6]], and as a metaphor, it is a symbol of humanity's position before a sovereign God, the divine **potter** [[Romans 9:21]].
TRV