### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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