ἄντλημα

a pail

Definition

ἄντλημα refers to a vessel or container used for drawing water, specifically a bucket or pail. In its sole New Testament occurrence in John 4:11, it denotes the physical object the Samaritan woman would have used to draw water from Jacob's well. The word emphasizes the drawn water itself or the instrument for drawing it, highlighting a practical, everyday item. No other biblical passages use this word, so its meaning remains consistent and concrete.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in John 4:11. The Samaritan woman says to Jesus, 'Sir, you have nothing to draw with [ἄντλημα], and the well is deep.' Its usage is entirely literal and situational, describing the lack of a physical water-dipping vessel in a narrative about a well encounter. It appears solely in the Gospel of John within this conversational context.

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἀντλέω (antleō, G501), meaning 'to draw (water).' The noun ἄντλημα is formed from this verb root, indicating the result or instrument of the action—'that which is drawn' or 'the thing used for drawing.' It is related to other Greek words for drawing water, focusing on the bucket or pail as the implement.

Semantic Range

While ἄντλημα itself is a mundane object, its use in John 4:11 sets the stage for profound theological dialogue. Jesus' lack of a physical ἄντλημα contrasts with his offer of 'living water' (John 4:10), shifting the conversation from literal water-drawing to spiritual salvation. Understanding this term highlights the contrast between human effort (needing a bucket) and divine grace (Jesus as the source of eternal life).

In the ancient Near East, drawing water from a well was a daily, labor-intensive task, typically done by women using a rope and bucket. A deep well like Jacob's (John 4:11) required a specific vessel (ἄντλημα) and effort. This cultural reality underscores the woman's practical concern and makes Jesus' offer of effortless 'living water' more striking.

ἀντλέω (antleō, G501) — the verb 'to draw (water),' the action for which an ἄντλημα is used. σκεῦος (skeuos, G4632) — a general term for 'vessel' or 'container,' which could include a water jar but is not specific to drawing.

Word Details

Scripture References