### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **rhantismós**, represented by `{{G4473}}`, refers to an aspersion or **sprinkling**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term carries a ceremonial and figurative weight, used specifically in the context of the purifying and covenant-sealing effects of the blood of Christ.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4473}}` is used in two key theological contexts. In [[Hebrews 12:24]], it is part of the phrase "the blood of **sprinkling**," which is presented as a component of the "new covenant" with Jesus as the mediator. This act of **sprinkling** is shown to be superior, as it "speaketh better things than that of Abel." Similarly, in [[1 Peter 1:2]], the term is linked to the process of salvation, where believers are elect "through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and **sprinkling** of the blood of Jesus Christ."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of this ceremonial **sprinkling**:
* `{{G129}}` **haîma** (blood): This is the substance applied in the act of **sprinkling**. Both occurrences of `{{G4473}}` describe it as the **sprinkling** of **blood** ([[1 Peter 1:2]], [[Hebrews 12:24]]), which is central to redemption and cleansing ([[Ephesians 1:7]], [[1 John 1:7]]).
* `{{G38}}` **hagiasmós** (sanctification): This term for purification or holiness is directly connected to **sprinkling**. According to [[1 Peter 1:2]], the "**sanctification** of the Spirit" is the precursor to the "**sprinkling** of the blood," linking the two as integral parts of being set apart for God.
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): The Holy **Spirit** is the divine agent who enacts the sanctification that leads to the **sprinkling**. [[1 Peter 1:2]] describes believers being chosen "through sanctification of the **Spirit**," highlighting the Spirit's role in applying the work of Christ.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4473}}` is immense, pointing directly to the application of Christ's atonement.
* **Covenant Ratification:** The "blood of **sprinkling**" is presented as a core element of the new covenant, with Jesus as the mediator [[Hebrews 12:24]]. This signifies the formal institution and sealing of God's new relationship with His people.
* **Purification and Sanctification:** The term is inseparable from cleansing. [[1 Peter 1:2]] explicitly connects the "**sprinkling** of the blood" to the "sanctification of the Spirit," framing it as the culminating act that makes a believer holy and obedient.
* **Atoning Power:** The **sprinkling** of Christ's blood is portrayed as having a powerful, communicative effect that "speaketh better things than that of Abel" [[Hebrews 12:24]], signifying its superior power for forgiveness and redemption over all previous sacrifices.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4473}}` is far more than a simple ceremonial action. It is a precise theological term that describes the application of Christ's atoning work to the believer. Though used only twice, it is a cornerstone concept for understanding the new covenant, illustrating how believers are set apart and cleansed through the "sanctification of the Spirit" and the "sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ" [[1 Peter 1:2]].
TRV