Living Water
John 4:14
NLT“But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.”
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
The Mishnah, compiled about 200, ranks 'living waters' highest of six grades of purifying water: only they could cleanse a man with a discharge or serve for sprinkling a leper.
Mishnah Mikvaot 1:1-8
Thirst as the figure for what only he gives, across a social taboo — easily spiritualised past real need.
More context
Jesus uses the physical necessity of water to illustrate the spiritual satisfaction and eternal life that only he can provide, breaking social taboos in the process.
Light
It speaks to the deep spiritual thirst of humanity and the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry.
Shadow
The metaphor can be spiritualised to the point of ignoring physical needs and justice.