New Testament
John 4:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't be thirsty and won't have to keep coming here to draw."
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The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.
What John 4:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Samaritan woman is speaking to Jesus, asking him for the 'living water' he mentioned earlier. She is expressing her desire to avoid the physical labor of coming to the well repeatedly for water. Her request reflects a deeper spiritual longing, as she does not fully understand the significance of what Jesus is offering. The 'water' symbolizes eternal life and spiritual fulfillment, which Jesus can provide. The woman's focus is on her immediate physical needs, but Jesus is inviting her to consider a more profound spiritual truth. This interaction highlights the contrast between physical thirst and spiritual thirst, emphasizing that true satisfaction comes from a relationship with God rather than from earthly sources. The woman's request also shows her desperation and desire for relief from her burdens, which many can relate to in their own lives.
How to apply John 4:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek spiritual fulfillment rather than just addressing our physical needs. It reminds us that true satisfaction comes from a relationship with Jesus, who offers us the 'living water' that quenches our deepest thirsts. We should reflect on what we truly seek in life.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Woman at the Well (John 4:1–42)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 4:15 mean?
In John 4:15, the Samaritan woman asks Jesus for the 'living water' he mentioned, indicating her desire to avoid the physical effort of drawing water repeatedly. This request symbolizes her deeper spiritual longing for fulfillment and relief from her burdens.
What is the significance of 'living water' in John 4:15?
The 'living water' in John 4:15 represents the eternal life and spiritual satisfaction that Jesus offers. It contrasts with physical water, highlighting the difference between temporary physical needs and lasting spiritual fulfillment.
How does John 4:15 relate to spiritual thirst?
John 4:15 illustrates the concept of spiritual thirst by showing the woman's desire for water that would relieve her physical labor. Jesus uses this moment to invite her to seek deeper spiritual satisfaction that only he can provide.
What can we learn from John 4:15?
From John 4:15, we learn the importance of seeking spiritual fulfillment over merely addressing physical needs. It encourages us to recognize our deeper longings and to turn to Jesus for true satisfaction.
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