### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **báptisma**, represented by `{{G908}}`, is defined as **baptism**, used in both a technical and figurative sense. It is derived from the word βαπτίζω and appears 22 times across 22 unique verses in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G908}}` is used in several key contexts. It is frequently connected to the ministry of John, who came preaching a **baptism** of repentance for the remission of sins ([[Mark 1:4]], [[Luke 3:3]]). The source of John's **baptism**—whether from heaven or from men—was a point of contention for the religious leaders [[Matthew 21:25]]. Jesus used the term figuratively to describe the immense suffering he was to endure [[Luke 12:50]]. For the believer, **baptism** symbolizes a spiritual union with Christ, being "buried with him by **baptism** into death" [[Romans 6:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the meaning and practice of baptism:
* `{{G907}}` **baptízō** (to immerse, submerge): This is the verb form from which `{{G908}}` is derived. It describes the action of the ordinance, as when Jesus asks if his disciples can be **baptized** with the **baptism** he is baptized with [[Mark 10:38]].
* `{{G3341}}` **metánoia** (repentance): This is frequently the stated purpose of John's ministry, as he preached the **baptism** of **repentance** [[Acts 19:4]].
* `{{G4916}}` **syntháptō** (to inter in company with): This word explains the theological significance of baptism, where a believer is spiritually **buried with** Christ [[Colossians 2:12]].
* `{{G859}}` **áphesis** (pardon, remission): John's baptism was for the **remission** of sins, linking the act to the concept of forgiveness [[Mark 1:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G908}}` is significant and multifaceted.
* **Identification with Christ:** Baptism is presented as the means by which believers are spiritually **buried with** `{{G4916}}` Christ and also risen with him through faith in God, who **raised** `{{G1453}}` Jesus from the **dead** `{{G3498}}` [[Colossians 2:12]].
* **A Rite of Repentance:** The "baptism of John" is consistently presented as a **baptism** of **repentance** `{{G3341}}`, which prepared the people for the coming of Jesus Christ [[Acts 13:24]].
* **A Figure of Salvation:** In 1 Peter, **baptism** is described as a figure that saves, not by the removal of the **filth** `{{G4509}}` of the flesh, but as the **answer** `{{G1906}}` of a good **conscience** `{{G4893}}` toward God, made effective by the **resurrection** `{{G386}}` of Jesus [[1 Peter 3:21]].
* **Christ's Suffering:** Jesus uses the word **baptism** figuratively to refer to his own impending death and suffering, an ordeal he must pass through [[Matthew 20:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G908}}` is a pivotal term in the New Testament. It moves from its initial context as John's preparatory rite of repentance to a profound ordinance signifying the believer's identification with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Its use highlights a transition from an outward act to an inward reality, representing a clean conscience before God and a new life in Christ.
TRV