### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Baptistḗs**, represented by `{{G910}}`, is defined as a **baptizer** and is used as an epithet for Christ's forerunner. It appears 14 times across 14 unique verses in the Bible, always referring to a specific individual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G910}}` is used exclusively as a title for the man named John. He is introduced as "John the **Baptist**" who was "preaching in the wilderness of Judaea" [[Matthew 3:1]]. The title is so intrinsically linked to him that he is often identified by it alone. When people speculated about Jesus's identity, some suggested he was "John the **Baptist**" risen from the dead ([[Matthew 14:2]], [[Mark 8:28]]). Even when his death was demanded, the request was specifically for "the head of John the **Baptist**" [[Mark 6:24]]. The disciples also understood that Jesus was speaking of John the **Baptist** when discussing the fulfillment of prophecy [[Matthew 17:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and identity of the figure associated with `{{G910}}`:
* `{{G2491}}` **Iōánnēs** (John): This is the proper name of the individual to whom the epithet `{{G910}}` is always applied. Verses like [[Matthew 11:11]] and [[Luke 7:28]] use the full title, "John the **Baptist**," to specify the person being discussed.
* `{{G2784}}` **kērýssō** (to herald, proclaim, publish): This word describes the primary action of John's ministry. He came as "John the Baptist, **preaching** in the wilderness" [[Matthew 3:1]], heralding divine truth.
* `{{G4396}}` **prophḗtēs** (prophet): This term defines the office that John the Baptist held. Jesus stated that among those born of women, there is not a greater **prophet** than John the Baptist [[Luke 7:28]]. People also identified him as being in the company of the **prophets** [[Luke 9:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G910}}` is tied to the unique role of the individual it describes.
* **A Specific Epithet:** The term is not a general descriptor for anyone who baptizes, but a unique title for one person: John. This highlights his distinct and singular mission in the biblical narrative [[Luke 7:20]].
* **The Prophetic Forerunner:** John the **Baptist** is identified as a **prophet** of the highest order [[Luke 7:28]]. This places his work of preaching and baptizing within the context of fulfilling God's divine plan as an inspired speaker foretelling what was to come.
* **Inauguration of the Kingdom:** The ministry of John the **Baptist** marks a pivotal moment in salvation history. His arrival signals a new era, as stated in [[Matthew 11:12]], "from the days of John the **Baptist** until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence."
### Summary
In summary, `{{G910}}` is far more than a simple descriptor of an action. It is a specific and exclusive title for John, Christ's forerunner. The term encapsulates his identity as a unique **prophet** whose ministry of preaching and baptizing served as the pivotal introduction to the kingdom of heaven. It distinguishes him as a key figure whose role was foretold and whose arrival marked a turning point in the biblical account.
TRV