The meaning of “מַיִם”
Understanding mayim reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
dual of a primitive noun (but used in a singular sense) [phrase] piss, wasting, water(-ing, (-course, -flood, -spring))....
מַיִם
dual of a primitive noun (but used in a singular sense) [phrase] piss, wasting, water(-ing, (-course, -flood, -spring)). - water - figuratively, juice - by euphemism, urine, semen 1) water, waters 1a) water 1b) water of the feet, urine 1c) of danger, violence, transitory things, refreshment (fig.)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Genesis 8:11 | “And the dove came in to him in the evening; and, lo, in her mouth was an olive leaf pluckt off: so Noah knew that the waters were abated from off the earth.” Word: מַיִם (mayim) | |
| Judges 6:38 | “And it was so: for he rose up early on the morrow, and thrust the fleece together, and wringed the dew out of the fleece, a bowl full of water.” Word: מַיִם (mayim) | |
| 2 Chronicles 32:3 | “He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him.” Word: מַיִם (mayim) | |
| Ecclesiastes 11:1 | “Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days.” Word: מַיִם (mayim) | |
| Daniel 12:6 | “And one said to the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?” Word: מַיִם (mayim) |
Usage Statistics
Related Words
Cross-referenced Strong's numbers with semantic or etymological connections.
Theological Word Study: Water
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Water, waters
The Hebrew mayim (מַיִם) means water—essential for life and symbol of cleansing and blessing. God promised to 'pour water upon him that is thirsty' (Isaiah 44:3) and provide 'living waters' (Jeremiah 2:13).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Water
The Greek hudor (ὕδωρ) denotes water. Jesus offered 'living water' to the Samaritan woman (John 4:10), and proclaimed 'If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink' (John 7:37).