Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage:The phrase "every whit" is an archaic expression that means "completely" or "entirely." It is used to convey the idea of something being whole or entire in every respect. In the context of the Bible, "every whit" is used to emphasize the completeness or thoroughness of an action, condition, or state. Biblical References: The phrase "every whit" appears in the King James Version of the Bible, but in the Berean Standard Bible , the equivalent expression is often rendered in more contemporary language. For example, in John 13:10, the BSB translates the concept as "completely clean," where the KJV uses "every whit clean." John 13:10 : "Jesus told him, 'Whoever has already bathed needs only to wash his feet, and he will be completely clean. And you are clean, though not all of you.'" In this passage, Jesus is speaking to His disciples during the Last Supper. The phrase "completely clean" (or "every whit clean" in the KJV) signifies the spiritual cleansing that Jesus provides, which is thorough and complete, except for Judas, who would betray Him. Theological Significance: The use of "every whit" in biblical texts underscores the thoroughness of God's work in the lives of believers. It reflects the idea that God's actions, whether in cleansing, healing, or fulfilling His promises, are complete and lacking nothing. This completeness is a testament to God's perfection and the sufficiency of His grace and power. Related Concepts: 1. Holiness and Purity: The concept of being "every whit clean" is closely related to the biblical themes of holiness and purity. In the Old Testament, the laws concerning ritual purity and cleanliness were detailed and specific, pointing to the need for complete purity before God. 2. Salvation and Redemption: The completeness of salvation is a central theme in Christian theology. Just as "every whit" signifies totality, the salvation offered through Jesus Christ is complete and sufficient for all who believe. It covers every aspect of sin and provides full redemption. 3. Healing and Restoration: In the Gospels, Jesus' healings are often described as complete. When He heals, He does so entirely, restoring individuals to full health. This reflects the comprehensive nature of His power and compassion. Historical Context: The phrase "every whit" is derived from Middle English, where "whit" means "a small amount" or "bit." Over time, the phrase came to mean "entirely" or "completely," emphasizing the totality of the subject in question. In biblical translations, such expressions were used to convey the thoroughness of God's actions and the completeness of His promises. Application for Believers: For Christians, the concept of being "every whit" clean or whole is a reminder of the transformative power of Christ's work in their lives. It encourages believers to trust in the sufficiency of God's grace and to seek a life of holiness and purity, knowing that God's work in them is complete and perfect. Greek 3650. holos -- whole, complete ... whole" or "all", ie Complete (in extent, amount, time or degree), especially (neuter) as noun or adverb -- all, altogether, every whit, + throughout, whole. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3650.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 3632. kalil -- entire, whole, a holocaust... 1). all, every whit, flame, perfection, utterly, whole burnt offering sacrifice, wholly. From kalal; complete; as noun, the whole ... /hebrew/3632.htm - 6k Library John Chapter xiii. 10-Jun A Word from the Beloved's Own Mouth. "And Ye are Clean. " --John ... Epistle Xlv. To Theoctista, Patrician . John Chapter vii. 19-24 He Expounds the Passage of the Gospel, "The Father Judgeth no Man ... There's More of God Since Jesus Went Back. The Scriptures John Chapter xv. 1-3. The Foot-Washing. Petilianus Said: "It May be Urged that Christ Said to his Apostles ... Resources What does it mean that Jesus has the name above all names? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” sermon? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that God is omnipresent? | GotQuestions.org Every: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |