CategoryDoctrine / Ordinance Term
Modern Equivalentimmerse; wash ceremonially; initiate by baptism.
KJV Word TypeVerb / sacramental term
DefinitionTo immerse in water as a sign of repentance, purification, or initiation into the Christian faith.
Key Verses"I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance... he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire." (Matthew 3:11); "Baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." (Matthew 28:19)
KJV Usage NoteThe word can describe water baptism, John’s baptism of repentance, or spiritual baptism associated with the Holy Ghost.
Common MisunderstandingIt does not always refer only to water; the KJV also uses baptism language for repentance, identification, and the Holy Ghost.
EtymologyFrom Greek baptizō ("to dip, immerse").