### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hagnízō**, represented by `{{G48}}`, means **to make clean** or **sanctify**. It appears 7 times in 7 unique verses. The term is used in two distinct ways: to describe a formal, ceremonial cleansing for religious rituals, and also to convey a deeper, figurative purification of the heart and soul.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G48}}` is used to describe both external rites and internal transformation. On a ceremonial level, Jews arriving in Jerusalem for the Passover would **purify** themselves [[John 11:55]]. The apostle Paul also partook in this practice, **purifying himself** in the temple to demonstrate his observance of the law ([[Acts 21:26]], [[Acts 24:18]]). In a moral sense, the word is used as a command to believers. James exhorts those who are "double minded" to **purify** their hearts [[James 4:8]], and Peter writes of believers who have **purified** their souls by obeying the truth [[1 Peter 1:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of purification:
* `{{G2511}}` **katharízō** (to cleanse): This word is often used in parallel with `{{G48}}` to describe a complete purification. It calls for sinners to **cleanse** their hands while they **purify** their hearts [[James 4:8]].
* `{{G49}}` **hagnismós** (purification): This noun form of `{{G48}}` refers to the act or process of cleansing. It is used in the context of Paul completing the "days of **purification**" in the temple [[Acts 21:26]].
* `{{G53}}` **hagnós** (pure): As the root word for `{{G48}}`, it describes a state of being clean or innocent. It serves as the ultimate standard for believers, who are to **purify** themselves "even as he is **pure**" [[1 John 3:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G48}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of sanctification.
* **Ceremonial and Moral Purity:** The word bridges the Old Testament concept of ritual cleansing [[Acts 21:24]] with the New Testament emphasis on inward, moral purity of the heart and soul [[1 Peter 1:22]].
* **Active Participation:** The use of `{{G48}}` often emphasizes human responsibility. Believers are called to actively **purify** themselves [[1 John 3:3]] and **purify** their hearts [[James 4:8]] as a response to God.
* **The Goal of Purification:** The purpose of this purification is not merely the removal of defilement. It is undertaken to draw near to God [[James 4:8]], to enable sincere love for others [[1 Peter 1:22]], and to reflect the very purity of God [[1 John 3:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G48}}` is a multifaceted term that encompasses more than a simple act of washing. It illustrates the biblical concepts of both ceremonial and moral purification. The word moves from an external religious rite to an internal, sanctifying action, demonstrating that true purity involves a transformation of the heart that prepares a believer for fellowship with God and with others.
TRV