νιπτήρ (niptēr)
niptēr
wash basin
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun niptēr refers to a washbasin or vessel used for cleaning hands and feet. It appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in John 13:5 during the account of the Last Supper.
In this scene, Jesus rises from the meal, lays aside his outer garments, and ties a towel around himself before pouring water into the basin to wash the disciples’ feet. The word highlights the humble, practical nature of the act, contrasting sharply with typical household roles of that era.
Derived from the verb niptō, meaning "to wash," the term denotes the container itself rather than the action. Its singular usage underscores the unique significance of this moment in Christian tradition, where service and humility are modeled through a simple domestic object.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word niptēr refers to a simple washbasin, an ordinary household vessel used for cleaning hands or feet. In John 13:5, Jesus uses this common object to perform an act of profound humility. By tying a towel around himself and pouring water into the basin, He redefines greatness not by status, but by service. This moment shows that true leadership involves getting down to the level of those we serve.
For your daily life, this image invites you to look for opportunities to serve others without seeking recognition. It reminds us that spiritual strength is often found in quiet, practical acts of care. When you encounter the need for help, consider how you might use your own resources—time, energy, or skills—to wash away the burdens of those around you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- basin1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- νιπτῆρα1×
Key Verses
-
John 13:5
Then he poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
This verse captures the specific moment Jesus uses the basin to initiate the foot-washing, highlighting the tangible reality of His humble service.