from a derivative of βάπτω; to immerse, submerge; to make whelmed (i.e. fully wet); used only (in the New Testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordinance of Christian baptism:--Baptist, baptize, wash.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **baptízō**, represented by `{{G907}}`, means to immerse, submerge, or make fully wet. It appears **86 times** across **65 unique verses** in the New Testament. While it can refer to ceremonial washing, its primary use is technical, referring to the ordinance of Christian baptism.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G907}}` is used in several key contexts. It is central to the ministry of John the Baptist, who came to **baptize** with water unto repentance [[Matthew 3:11]], with people **confessing** their sins [[Mark 1:5]]. Jesus himself came to John to be **baptized** [[Matthew 3:13]]. The term's significance is established by Christ in the Great Commission, commanding his followers to **teach** all nations, **baptizing** them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the **Holy Ghost** [[Matthew 28:19]]. The act is tied to salvation for those who believe [[Mark 16:16]] and is performed for the **remission** of sins [[Acts 2:38]]. In a non-ceremonial context, it is used for the act of washing before a meal [[Luke 11:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the meaning and practice of being baptized:
* `{{G908}}` **báptisma** (baptism): This is the noun form for the act itself. John preached the **baptism** of repentance [[Mark 1:4]], and Paul speaks of one Lord, one faith, one **baptism** [[Ephesians 4:5]].
* `{{G5204}}` **hýdōr** (water): This is the physical element of John's baptism. John explicitly states, "I **baptize** with **water**" [[John 1:26]], and he chose Aenon for baptizing because there was much **water** there [[John 3:23]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): This refers to the divine element of baptism. John contrasted his water baptism with Christ's, who would **baptize** with the **Holy Ghost** [[Mark 1:8]]. Peter promises that those who are baptized will receive the gift of the **Holy Ghost** [[Acts 2:38]].
* `{{G3341}}` **metánoia** (repentance): This is the state of mind closely associated with John's baptism. John is described as having **baptized** with the baptism of **repentance** [[Acts 19:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G907}}` is immense, representing a believer's transformation and union with Christ.
* **Identification with Christ:** To be **baptized** is to be symbolically united with Christ. Those **baptized** into Christ have **put on** Christ [[Galatians 3:27]] and are **baptized** into His death [[Romans 6:3]].
* **Cleansing and Forgiveness:** The act is connected to being cleansed from sin. Ananias instructed Paul to "arise, and be **baptized**, and **wash away** thy sins" [[Acts 22:16]].
* **A Command and Response to Faith:** Baptism is not merely an option but a command from Christ [[Matthew 28:19]]. It follows belief, as those who **believed** Philip's preaching were **baptized** [[Acts 8:12]], and those who gladly received Peter's word were **baptized** [[Acts 2:41]].
* **Union in One Body:** Through this act, believers are brought into a single spiritual body. Paul states that by one **Spirit**, all are **baptized** into one body [[1 Corinthians 12:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G907}}` signifies far more than a simple immersion. It is a cornerstone ordinance of the Christian faith, representing a believer's public identification with Christ's death and resurrection. The term carries profound meaning, connecting the physical act of washing with **water** to the spiritual realities of **repentance**, the **remission** of sins, and receiving the **Holy Ghost**. It stands as a foundational act of obedience and faith for the believer.
TRV