### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **rhantízō**, represented by `{{G4472}}`, means to **sprinkle**. It is used to describe an act of ceremonial or figurative besprinkling. According to usage statistics, it appears **5 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily within the book of Hebrews.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical text, `{{G4472}}` is used to describe key purification rituals from the law of Moses. It is recorded that Moses **sprinkled** both the book of the law and all the people with blood, water, scarlet wool, and hyssop [[Hebrews 9:19]]. This ceremonial act extended to the instruments of worship, as he also **sprinkled** the tabernacle and its vessels with blood [[Hebrews 9:21]]. The word is also used to connect the act of **sprinkling** with its purpose, as when the ashes of a heifer **sprinkling** the unclean serves to sanctify them [[Hebrews 9:13]]. Figuratively, it is applied to the believer's inner state, referencing hearts **sprinkled** from an evil conscience [[Hebrews 10:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and purpose of sprinkling:
* `{{G2514}}` **katharótēs** (cleanness (ceremonially):--purification): This word defines the outcome of the sprinkling. The act of sprinkling the unclean leads to the **purification** of the flesh [[Hebrews 9:13]].
* `{{G3068}}` **loúō** (a primary verb; to bathe (the whole person...):--wash): This term is used in parallel with `{{G4472}}` to signify a complete cleansing. Believers are described as having their hearts sprinkled and their bodies **washed** with pure water [[Hebrews 10:22]].
* `{{G37}}` **hagiázō** (to make holy, i.e. (ceremonially) purify or consecrate...:--hallow, be holy, sanctify): This word explains the spiritual effect of sprinkling. The blood and ashes of the old covenant **sanctify** the unclean through the act of sprinkling [[Hebrews 9:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4472}}` is demonstrated in its application to cleansing and consecration.
* **Ceremonial Cleansing:** The word is fundamentally tied to the Old Covenant rites of purification. Sprinkling with blood and ashes was the prescribed method for cleansing the unclean, the book of the law, and the tabernacle itself, achieving the "purifying of the flesh" ([[Hebrews 9:13]], [[Hebrews 9:19]], [[Hebrews 9:21]]).
* **Figurative Purification:** The concept is elevated from a physical ritual to a spiritual reality. The New Covenant believer experiences an internal cleansing, described as having "hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience" [[Hebrews 10:22]], signifying a deeper work than external rites could accomplish.
* **A Means to Sanctification:** Sprinkling is not merely about washing away defilement but about consecration. The act of `{{G4472}}` is shown to **sanctify** a person, setting them apart as holy [[Hebrews 9:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4472}}` is a specific term that carries significant theological meaning. It illustrates the transition from the literal, ceremonial **sprinkling** of the Old Covenant to the figurative, heart-cleansing work of the New Covenant. It is an essential concept for understanding biblical purification, showing how an external act points toward the reality of an inner sanctification and a cleansed conscience.
TRV