Were the 6 "Stone Pots" of Water in John 2:6 Really Made of Stone or Clay?
The Old Testament contains numerous references to the use of clay pots for purification purposes, such as in Leviticus 11:33-36 and Numbers 19:17-19. These passages suggest that clay pots were an acceptable vessel for holding water for purification purposes.
John 2:6 recounts the story of Jesus turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana. The passage notes that there were six "stone pots" of water that were used for purification according to Jewish custom. However, the question remains as to whether these pots were really made of stone or if they were made of clay. In this blog post, we will examine the evidence for both possibilities and explore the implications of each.
The Argument for Stone Pots
The traditional interpretation of John 2:6 is that the pots used for purification were made of stone. The word used in the original Greek text is "lekanis," which means a pot or jar made of stone. Supporters of this interpretation argue that the use of stone pots was common in Jewish purification rituals, and that this would have been the most appropriate vessel for holding water for purification purposes.
Additionally, there is evidence to suggest that stone pots were commonly used in the ancient world. Archaeologists have discovered numerous examples of stone vessels that were used for storing and transporting liquids. These vessels were often made from materials like limestone and were highly valued for their durability and non-porous nature.
The Argument for Clay Pots
Despite the traditional interpretation, some scholars argue that the pots used in John 2:6 were actually made of clay. They point out that the Greek word "lekanis" can refer to any type of pot or jar, not just those made of stone. Additionally, they argue that clay pots were more commonly used for storing and transporting water, as they were more affordable and easier to produce than stone vessels.
There is also evidence to suggest that clay pots were commonly used in Jewish purification rituals. The Old Testament contains numerous references to the use of clay pots for purification purposes, such as in Leviticus 11:33-36 and Numbers 19:17-19. These passages suggest that clay pots were an acceptable vessel for holding water for purification purposes.
Implications of Stone vs. Clay Pots
The question of whether the pots used in John 2:6 were made of stone or clay may seem like a minor detail, but it has significant implications for our understanding of the story. If the pots were made of stone, it would emphasize the importance and seriousness of the Jewish purification rituals that were being performed. It would also underscore the miraculous nature of Jesus's transformation of the water into wine, as he was able to turn a substance that was meant for ritual purification into a substance that was associated with celebration and joy.
On the other hand, if the pots were made of clay, it would emphasize the practical nature of the Jewish purification rituals. It would also suggest that Jesus's transformation of the water into wine was not just a spiritual miracle, but also a practical one, as he was able to turn a substance that was meant for purification into a substance that was useful and enjoyable.