John 3:23

And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.

And {G1161} John {G2491} also {G2532} was {G2258} baptizing {G907} in {G1722} Aenon {G137} near {G1451} to Salim {G4530}, because {G3754} there was {G2258} much {G4183} water {G5204} there {G1563}: and {G2532} they came {G3854}, and {G2532} were baptized {G907}.

Yochanan too was immersing at Einayim, near Shalem, because there was plenty of water there; and people kept coming to be immersed.

Now John was also baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because the water was plentiful there, and people kept coming to be baptized.

And John also was baptizing in 'non near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.

Commentary

John 3:23 continues the narrative of John the Baptist's ministry, providing a specific geographical detail that underscores the practical nature of his baptismal work. This verse shows that even as Jesus's public ministry was beginning to flourish, John continued faithfully in his divinely appointed role as a forerunner, preparing the hearts of the people.

Historical and Cultural Context

The setting for John's continued baptizing ministry is "Aenon near to Salim." While the exact location of these places is debated among scholars, the key detail provided by the evangelist John is "because there was much water there." This indicates that John's baptism involved immersion, requiring significant water sources. This practice was distinct from ritual washings common in Judaism, emphasizing a personal act of repentance and commitment. This activity occurred concurrently with Jesus and His disciples also engaging in baptism in Judea, setting up a subtle contrast and eventual transition of focus from John to Jesus.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Nature of Baptism: The phrase "much water" (Greek: hydata polla) strongly suggests that John's baptism was by immersion, where the entire body is submerged. This act symbolized purification, repentance from sin, and a public declaration of one's desire to follow God.
  • John the Baptist's Steadfast Ministry: Despite Jesus's growing popularity, John faithfully continued his mission, drawing crowds who sought spiritual cleansing and preparation for the coming Messiah. His commitment highlights his role as the prophesied messenger sent to prepare the way.
  • Geographical Specificity: The mention of "Aenon near to Salim" adds a layer of historical authenticity to the Gospel account, grounding these spiritual events in real places and times. It also shows the practical considerations for conducting a widespread baptismal ministry.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "baptizing" is baptizo (βαπτίζω), which literally means "to dip," "to immerse," or "to submerge." This linguistic meaning is directly supported by the text's assertion that "there was much water there," making immersion possible and practical for the large numbers of people who came to be baptized.

Practical Application

John 3:23 reminds us of the importance of spiritual preparation and the symbolic significance of baptism. For believers today, baptism is an outward expression of an inward commitment to Christ, signifying new life and identification with His death, burial, and resurrection. It also highlights the faithfulness of those who, like John the Baptist, serve God in their appointed roles, even as new phases of God's work emerge. This verse sets the stage for John's profound humility, as he later states that Jesus "must increase, but I must decrease."

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Cross-References

  • Luke 3:7 (3 votes)

    Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

  • Matthew 3:5 (3 votes)

    Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan,

  • Matthew 3:6 (3 votes)

    And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.

  • Mark 1:4 (3 votes)

    John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.

  • Mark 1:5 (3 votes)

    And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.

  • Jeremiah 51:13 (2 votes)

    O thou that dwellest upon many waters, abundant in treasures, thine end is come, [and] the measure of thy covetousness.

  • Ezekiel 43:2 (2 votes)

    And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and his voice [was] like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory.