The Greek word spóngos, represented by G4699, is defined as a "sponge". It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, with all occurrences taking place during the account of the crucifixion.
In the biblical narrative, G4699 is consistently used as the instrument for offering sour wine to Jesus on the cross. In each account, a spunge is filled (G4130, G1072) with vinegar G3690 and lifted to his mouth G4750. The Gospels of Matthew and Mark describe the spunge being put on a reed G2563 to be given to him to drink (Matthew 27:48, Mark 15:36), while John's account specifies it was put upon hyssop G5301 John 19:29.
Several related words clarify the context of this event:
- G3690 óxos (vinegar): Defined as "vinegar, i.e. sour wine," this is the liquid the spunge is filled with in all three occurrences (Matthew 27:48, Mark 15:36, John 19:29).
- G2563 kálamos (reed): This is the object used to lift the sponge to Jesus in two of the accounts (Matthew 27:48, Mark 15:36). The term is defined as "a reed."
- G5301 hýssōpos (hyssop): In John's narrative, this plant is used instead of a reed to present the sponge John 19:29. It is also mentioned in Hebrews in the context of purification rituals Hebrews 9:19.
The theological weight of G4699 is tied directly to its role in the final moments of Christ's life.
- Instrument of Mockery: The act of offering vinegar G3690 via the spunge is presented within a context of mockery. The soldiers offered him vinegar Luke 23:36, and in Mark's account, the action is accompanied by the words, "let us see whether Elias will come to take him down" Mark 15:36.
- Object in a Pivotal Act: The spunge is the specific vessel used to give Jesus a drink G4222. Immediately after receiving the vinegar in John's account, Jesus declares, "It is finished" John 19:30.
- Association with Hyssop: The use of hyssop G5301 in John's Gospel to lift the sponge is significant, as this plant was used with blood for sprinkling and purification under the Mosaic law Hebrews 9:19.
In summary, G4699 is a simple object whose significance is derived entirely from its specific, threefold appearance in the passion narrative. As the "sponge" used to offer Jesus vinegar on the cross, it is an unforgettable detail in the Gospel accounts. Whether placed on a reed G2563 or hyssop G5301, its use marks a pivotal moment immediately preceding Jesus's death.
TRV