New Testament
John 4:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the Samaritan woman is speaking to Jesus, asking him for the 'living water' he mentioned earlier.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
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."
The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.
Verse Analysis
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. Explore related stress.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

The Book of John
John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples
In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.
Unlock the full John summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of John — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 21 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of John summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.