### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hydría**, represented by `{{G5201}}`, is defined as a **water-jar** or **water-pot**. It is derived from the word for water, `{{G5204}}` (hýdōr), and describes a receptacle used for a family's water supply. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the Gospel of John.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5201}}` is central to two significant events. At the wedding in Cana, there were six **waterpots** made of stone, set aside for the Jewish rites of purifying [[John 2:6]]. Jesus instructed the servants to fill these **waterpots** with water, which he then turned into wine [[John 2:7]]. Later, in Samaria, the woman at the well, after her transformative encounter with Jesus, "left her **waterpot**" to go into the city and tell others about him [[John 4:28]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and function of the **hydría**:
* `{{G5204}}` **hýdōr** (water): As the root of `{{G5201}}`, this word highlights the primary purpose of the vessel. The connection is explicit when Jesus commands the servants to fill the waterpots with **water** [[John 2:7]].
* `{{G3035}}` **líthinos** (of stone): This word describes the material of the vessels at Cana, identifying them specifically as waterpots **of stone** [[John 2:6]].
* `{{G1072}}` **gemízō** (to fill entirely): This verb details the action performed with the waterpots, as they were commanded to be **filled**, and were subsequently **filled** to the brim [[John 2:7]].
* `{{G1135}}` **gynḗ** (a woman): This term connects the object to the Samaritan **woman**, whose act of leaving her waterpot behind is a pivotal moment in her story [[John 4:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G5201}}` is seen in its symbolic roles:
* **Vessel of Transformation:** The stone waterpots at Cana, objects associated with Jewish ceremonial purifying `{{G2512}}`, became the vessels for Jesus' first miracle. They held the water that was transformed into wine, signifying the newness that Christ brings [[John 2:6]].
* **Instrument of Service:** The waterpots were filled at Jesus' command [[John 2:7]]. This act of obedience by the servants was a necessary step for the miracle to occur, highlighting the role of human action in divine plans.
* **Symbol of a New Focus:** The Samaritan woman's abandonment of her **waterpot** represents a shift from earthly concerns to spiritual realities. She leaves behind the tool for drawing physical water after encountering Jesus, the source of "living water" [[John 4:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5201}}` is an everyday object used to convey profound spiritual truth. Though it simply means **water-pot**, its presence in scripture marks moments of miraculous transformation and life-altering faith. From being containers for ceremonial cleansing to being left behind for an evangelistic mission, the **hydría** serves as a powerful symbol of the ordinary being used for extraordinary divine purposes.
TRV