John 2:6

“And there were set six water pots of stone, etc.] To distinguish them from other vessels made of different matter: for the Jews had “vessels made of dust, and the dung of beasts, µynba ylk, “vessels of stone”, vessels of earth, vessels made of shells, vessels of nitre, vessels made of the bones and skins of fishes f89.” And as these vessels were very likely for washing of hands, such were used for that purpose: their rule is f90, “they may put water for the hands in all sorts of vessels; in vessels of dung, in stone vessels, and in vessels of earth.” At a wedding were set vessels of various sizes to wash hands and feet in; there was one vessel called alkyçm, which the gloss says was a large…”

“firkins--about seven and a half gallons in Jewish, or nine in Attic measure; each of these huge water jars, therefore, holding some twenty or more gallons, for washings at such feasts (Mar 7:4).”

“Six water-pots of stone - Made of stone; or, as we should say, stoneware. After the manner - After the usual custom. Of the purifying - Of the “washings” or ablutions of the Jews. They were for the purpose of washing the hands before and after eating Matthew 15:2, and for the formal washing of vessels, and even articles of furniture, Luke 11:39; Mark 7:3-4. Two or three firkins - It is not quite certain what is meant here by the word “firkins.” It is probable that the measure intended is the Hebrew “bath,” containing about 7 12 gallons. return to 'Top of Page'”

“The purifying of the Jews - Who purified themselves by frequent washings particularly before eating. John 2:9”

“2:6 Carved from solid rock, the stone water jars were used for religious washing ceremonies (see Mark 7:1-4). Jesus was about to fill Jewish ceremony with new content.”

“after: Joh 3:25; Mar 7:2-5; Eph 5:26; Heb 6:2, Heb 9:10, Heb 9:19, Heb 10:22 John 2:7”