Bible Question (short): Rhantizo vs. Baptizo- Synonyms? |
Question (full): I noticed that the NASB uses a Greek translation that has "rhantizo" (sprinkle) for the Jewish practice of washing themselves prior to eating after they come from the market in Mark 7:4. Luke 11:38, however, apparently describing the same practice translates from the Greek "baptizo". Would it be proper to make the case, then, that baptizo could also cover the particular mode of sprinkling? Interestingly, the John MacArthur Study Bible has a note for Luke 11:38 that refers the reader back to Mark 7:3. The study note there describes the practice of the Jews pouring water over their hands before they eat. The fact that baptizo is used in Luke 11:38 and then the Study Bible directs the reader to a note describing pouring makes it sound like baptizo was also used to describe washing/cleansing when this occured from pouring. Any ideas on how to ascertain the true meaning of baptizo? If baptizo and rhantizo are being used to describe the same ritual, does this mean that they are synonyms? Thanks for the help. |