John 2:6

Now six stone water jars had been set there for the Jewish rites of purification. Each could hold from twenty to thirty gallons.

Study Bible

Now six stone water jars
The mention of "six stone water jars" is significant in the context of Jewish customs. Stone jars were used because they were considered less likely to become ritually impure compared to earthenware. The number six, often associated with imperfection or incompleteness in biblical numerology, sets the stage for Jesus' miraculous transformation, symbolizing the transition from the old covenant to the new. The use of stone jars also highlights the authenticity and historical accuracy of the Gospel account, as archaeological findings have confirmed the use of such jars in first-century Jewish practices.

had been set there
The phrase "had been set there" suggests intentionality and preparation. These jars were not randomly placed but were purposefully positioned for a specific function. This detail underscores the providence and foreknowledge of God, who orchestrates events for His divine purposes. It also reflects the readiness for transformation, as these jars, though ordinary, were about to be used for an extraordinary miracle.

for the Jewish rites of purification
The "Jewish rites of purification" were ceremonial washings prescribed by the Mosaic Law to maintain ritual cleanliness. These rites were an integral part of Jewish religious life, symbolizing the need for spiritual purity. By using these jars, Jesus connects His miracle to the Jewish tradition, yet He transcends it by turning water into wine, symbolizing the new covenant of grace and the joy of the Kingdom of God. This act foreshadows the ultimate purification through His sacrifice.

Each could hold from twenty to thirty gallons
The capacity of "twenty to thirty gallons" per jar indicates the abundance of the miracle. This large quantity of water turned into wine signifies the overflowing grace and generosity of God. It also highlights the sufficiency and superabundance of Christ's provision, which meets and exceeds human need. The specific mention of the volume underscores the historical reliability of the account, providing a tangible measure of the miracle's magnitude.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
- Central figure in the Gospel of John, performing His first recorded miracle at the wedding in Cana.

2. Wedding at Cana
- The setting of Jesus' first miracle, where He turned water into wine.

3. Jewish Rites of Purification
- Ceremonial practices in Judaism involving water for cleansing, highlighting the cultural and religious context of the event.

4. Stone Water Jars
- Large containers used for purification, symbolizing the old covenant and Jewish traditions.

5. Disciples
- Followers of Jesus who witnessed the miracle, strengthening their faith in Him.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Purification
The stone jars represent the old covenant and the Jewish law. Jesus' transformation of water into wine signifies the new covenant and the transformative power of His ministry.

Abundance in Christ
The large capacity of the jars (20-30 gallons each) symbolizes the abundance and generosity of God's grace through Jesus.

Transformation
Just as Jesus transformed water into wine, He transforms our lives. This miracle is a sign of His power to change the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Faith and Obedience
The servants' obedience in filling the jars with water demonstrates faith in Jesus' instructions, a model for our own faith and obedience.

New Beginnings
The miracle at the wedding signifies the beginning of Jesus' public ministry, inviting us to consider the new beginnings He offers in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the stone water jars used for purification relate to the concept of the old and new covenants in the Bible?

2. In what ways does the abundance of wine at the wedding in Cana reflect the nature of God's grace in our lives?

3. How can we apply the principle of transformation seen in this miracle to our personal spiritual growth?

4. What does the obedience of the servants in this passage teach us about following Jesus' instructions in our daily lives?

5. How does this miracle at the beginning of Jesus' ministry set the stage for His mission and message throughout the Gospels?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:17-21
Discusses the use of water for purification in the tabernacle, providing background on Jewish purification practices.

Mark 7:3-4
Describes the Pharisees' emphasis on ceremonial washing, illustrating the importance of purification in Jewish life.

Hebrews 9:10
Refers to various ceremonial washings under the old covenant, contrasting them with the new covenant in Christ.