### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hýdōr**, represented by `{{G5204}}`, is the primary term for **water**. It appears 79 times across 70 unique verses, indicating its importance in both literal and figurative contexts. While it denotes the physical substance of water, it is also used metaphorically to represent spiritual life, cleansing, and even judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5204}}` is used in various physical and symbolic ways. It is the substance Jesus miraculously turns into wine [[John 4:46]] and the element he walks upon [[Matthew 14:29]]. It is used for practical purposes, such as when Jesus washes the disciples' feet [[John 13:5]] or when Pilate washes his hands to declare his innocence [[Matthew 27:24]]. It is also the element of baptism, as seen when Jesus is baptized and comes up "out of the water" [[Matthew 3:16]]. Figuratively, Christ offers "living **water**" to the woman at the well, a source that quenches spiritual thirst forever [[John 4:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the contexts in which **hýdōr** appears:
* `{{G907}}` **baptízō** (to immerse, submerge): This word is intrinsically linked to `{{G5204}}` in the ordinance of baptism. John the Baptist explicitly states his role is to **baptize** with **water**, contrasting it with the coming baptism of the Holy Spirit [[Matthew 3:11]].
* `{{G2198}}` **záō** (to live): This word is essential for understanding the figurative use of water. Jesus promises to give "living **water**," connecting the physical element to the concept of eternal life ([[John 4:10]], [[John 7:38]]).
* `{{G4215}}` **potamós** (a current, brook or freshet): This word for running water is often used with `{{G5204}}` to describe a powerful source. Believers are promised that "rivers of living **water**" will flow from them [[John 7:38]], and a "river of **water** of life" flows from God's throne [[Revelation 22:1]].
* `{{G1372}}` **dipsáō** (to thirst for): This word describes the human need that the "water of life" fulfills. Jesus promises that those who drink the water He gives will never **thirst** again [[John 4:14]], and an open invitation is made for anyone who is **athirst** to take the **water** of life freely [[Revelation 21:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5204}}` is profound, illustrating core spiritual truths.
* **Source of Spiritual Life:** **Water** is a primary symbol for the life-giving salvation offered by Christ. It is described as "living **water**" [[John 4:10]] and the "**water** of life," given freely from a divine fountain ([[Revelation 21:6]], [[Revelation 22:17]]).
* **Purification and Rebirth:** The concept of spiritual cleansing is closely tied to **water**. Jesus speaks of being "born of **water** and of the Spirit" to enter God's kingdom [[John 3:5]]. The church is cleansed "with the washing of **water** by the word" [[Ephesians 5:26]].
* **Divine Witness and Judgment:** In 1 John, the **water** is one of three witnesses on earth, alongside the Spirit and the blood [[1 John 5:8]]. Water also serves as an instrument of divine power and judgment, as when the ancient world was "overflowed with **water**" [[2 Peter 3:6]], or when the voice of the Almighty is described as the "sound of many **waters**" [[Revelation 1:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5204}}` transcends its literal meaning as a common liquid. It serves as a powerful biblical symbol for spiritual realities. From the physical element used in baptism and daily life to the figurative "living **water**" that signifies eternal salvation and purification through Christ, **hýdōr** is a foundational word for understanding the grace of God and the nature of the Christian life.
TRV