βαπτίζω

I dip, submerge, baptize

Definition

The verb βαπτίζω primarily means 'to dip, immerse, or submerge.' In the New Testament, it most often refers to the religious rite of baptism, signifying purification, initiation, or identification. For example, John's baptism was a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins (Mark 1:4), while Christian baptism signifies union with Christ in his death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). The word can also be used metaphorically for being overwhelmed, as in being 'baptized' with suffering (Mark 10:38-39) or with the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5).

Biblical Usage

Βαπτίζω is used 65 times in the New Testament, predominantly in the Gospels and Acts. It describes the ministry of John the Baptist (e.g., Matthew 3:6, 11), the baptism commanded by Jesus (Matthew 28:19), and the early church's practice (e.g., Acts 2:38, 41). It appears in instructive passages (1 Corinthians 1:14-17) and theological explanations (1 Peter 3:21). A key pattern is its association with major transitions: repentance, Christian initiation, and the reception of the Holy Spirit.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek verb βάπτω (baptō, G911), meaning 'to dip' or 'to dye.' The -ίζω suffix often indicates a causative or intensive action, so βαπτίζω can imply 'to cause to be dipped' or 'to immerse thoroughly.' Its core meaning of immersion or submersion is retained in its ceremonial and metaphorical uses in the New Testament.

Semantic Range

This word is central to Christian sacrament and identity. It signifies cleansing from sin, initiation into the covenant community, and participation in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 6:3-4). Understanding its root meaning of immersion enriches the symbolism of burial and resurrection. It is also key to the doctrine of the Trinity, as baptism is administered in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).

In the first-century Jewish world, ritual washings (mikveh) for purification were common. John's baptism fit within this context but was distinctive as a one-time, prophetic act of repentance preparing for the Messiah. Greco-Roman cultures also had initiation rites and purification rituals, but Christian baptism was unique in its connection to the name and work of Jesus Christ.

βάπτω (baptō, G911) — A simpler verb meaning 'to dip' (e.g., Luke 16:24, John 13:26). ῥαντίζω (rhantizō, G4472) — Means 'to sprinkle' or 'to cleanse,' used for ritual sprinkling (Hebrews 9:13, 19). λούω (louō, G3068) — Means 'to wash' or 'to bathe' the entire body (Acts 9:37, 2 Peter 2:22).

Word Details

Scripture References