Topical Encyclopedia The term "washhand" refers to the act of washing one's hands, a practice that holds both practical and symbolic significance in the Bible. This act is often associated with purification, ritual cleanliness, and the removal of guilt or responsibility.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, handwashing is primarily linked to ceremonial cleanliness. The priests were required to wash their hands and feet before approaching the altar or entering the Tent of Meeting, as described in Exodus 30:19-21: "Aaron and his sons are to wash their hands and feet with water from it. Whenever they enter the Tent of Meeting or approach the altar to minister by presenting an offering made by fire to the LORD, they must wash with water, so that they will not die." This ritual underscored the holiness required of those serving in the presence of God. Handwashing also appears in the context of legal and moral responsibility. In Deuteronomy 21:6-7, the elders of a city were to wash their hands over a heifer in a ceremony to declare their innocence in the case of an unsolved murder: "All the elders of that city nearest the slain man shall wash their hands over the heifer whose neck was broken in the valley, and they shall declare, 'Our hands did not shed this blood, nor did our eyes see it done.'" New Testament Context In the New Testament, handwashing is mentioned in the context of Jewish traditions and the teachings of Jesus. The Pharisees and some of the scribes questioned Jesus about His disciples not following the traditional handwashing rituals before eating. In Mark 7:3-4, it is noted, "For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands ceremonially, holding to the tradition of the elders. And on returning from the market, they do not eat unless they wash." Jesus responded by emphasizing the importance of inner purity over external rituals, teaching that what defiles a person comes from within, not from failing to observe traditional handwashing (Mark 7:14-23). Symbolic Significance The act of washing hands also carries symbolic meaning in the Bible, representing innocence and the renunciation of responsibility for wrongdoing. This is vividly illustrated in the account of Pontius Pilate during the trial of Jesus. In Matthew 27:24, Pilate, seeking to absolve himself of the decision to crucify Jesus, "took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, 'I am innocent of this man’s blood. You bear the responsibility.'" Cultural and Theological Implications The practice of handwashing in biblical times reflects broader themes of purity, holiness, and moral accountability. It serves as a reminder of the need for spiritual cleanliness and the importance of maintaining a heart that is right before God. While the physical act of washing hands is a simple gesture, its biblical implications extend to the deeper spiritual truths of repentance, forgiveness, and the pursuit of righteousness. In summary, the concept of "washhand" in the Bible encompasses both the literal act of cleansing and the profound spiritual lessons associated with purity and responsibility before God. Concordance Washhand (1 Occurrence)John 13:5 Thesaurus Washhand (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Washhand (1 Occurrence). John 13:5 then he pours water into the washhand basin, and began to wash the feet ... /w/washhand.htm - 6k Washeth (4 Occurrences) Pours (21 Occurrences) Linen (111 Occurrences) Washing (56 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |