Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Dipping, in biblical terms, refers to the act of immersing or submerging something into a liquid. This action is often associated with various religious, cultural, and ritualistic practices found throughout the Bible. The concept of dipping is seen in both the Old and New Testaments, where it is used in literal, symbolic, and ceremonial contexts. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, dipping is frequently associated with purification and ceremonial practices. One notable instance is found in Leviticus 14:6, where the priest is instructed to dip a live bird, along with cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop, into the blood of a bird that has been slaughtered over fresh water. This ritual was part of the cleansing process for a person healed of a skin disease. Another significant mention is in the account of Naaman, the commander of the army of the king of Aram, who was instructed by the prophet Elisha to dip himself seven times in the Jordan River to be cleansed of his leprosy (2 Kings 5:14). This act of dipping was both a test of faith and a means of divine healing. New Testament References In the New Testament, dipping is often associated with the practice of baptism, which symbolizes purification, repentance, and the believer's identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. While the term "dipping" is not explicitly used in the context of baptism, the practice itself involves immersion in water, as seen in the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist in the Jordan River (Matthew 3:16). The act of dipping is also mentioned in the context of the Last Supper. In John 13:26, Jesus identifies His betrayer by saying, "It is the one to whom I will give this piece of bread after I have dipped it." This act of dipping bread into a dish was a customary part of the Passover meal and held significant meaning in the identification of Judas Iscariot as the betrayer. Symbolism and Significance Dipping in the Bible often carries symbolic meanings of cleansing, purification, and transformation. It signifies a transition from impurity to purity, from sin to righteousness, and from old life to new life. The act of dipping, especially in the context of baptism, represents a public declaration of faith and commitment to follow Christ. In the broader biblical narrative, dipping serves as a reminder of God's provision, healing, and the importance of obedience to His commands. Whether through the cleansing rituals of the Old Testament or the sacrament of baptism in the New Testament, dipping underscores the transformative power of faith and the believer's journey towards holiness. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Dip.2. (n.) The act or process of immersing. 3. (n.) The act of inclining downward. 4. (n.) The act of lifting or moving a liquid with a dipper, ladle, or the like. 5. (n.) The process of cleaning or brightening sheet metal or metal ware, esp. brass, by dipping it in acids, etc. 6. (n.) The practice of taking snuff by rubbing the teeth or gums with a stick or brush dipped in snuff. Greek 909. baptismos -- (the act of) a dipping or washing ... (the act of) a dipping or washing. Part of ... Word Origin from baptizo Definition (the act of) a dipping or washing NASB Word Usage washing (1), washings (2). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/909.htm - 7k 908. baptisma -- (the result of) a dipping or sinking 907. baptizo -- to dip, sink Strong's Hebrew 4351. mekurah -- origin... birth, habitation, nativity. Or mkorah {mek-o-raw'}; from the same as kuwr in the sense of dipping; origin (as if a mine) -- birth, habitation, nativity. ... /hebrew/4351.htm - 6k Library John Chapter xiii. 26-31. Whether Christ Gave his Body to Judas? Jesus Fails to Attend the Third Passover. Judas. Concerning the Sacrament of Baptism Meditation vi. The Last Pasch. A Simple Sermon for Seeking Souls Favor of the Reader. Introductory Notice to Alexander, Bishop of Alexandria. The Fourfold Treasure Thesaurus Dipping (4 Occurrences)... 5. (n.) The process of cleaning or brightening sheet metal or metal ware, esp. brass, by dipping it in acids, etc. ...Dipping (4 Occurrences). ... /d/dipping.htm - 8k Dip (17 Occurrences) Scoop (2 Occurrences) Wash (105 Occurrences) Salute (48 Occurrences) Lutheran Doctrine (52 Occurrences) Dippeth (6 Occurrences) Baptist (16 Occurrences) Interpretation (45 Occurrences) Resources Is intinction the correct way to do communion? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Joseph in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Judas Iscariot? | GotQuestions.org Dipping: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Dipping (4 Occurrences)Mark 14:20 John 13:26 Deuteronomy 33:24 Psalms 68:23 Subtopics Related Terms |