Did the Laodiceans Drink Lukewarm Water? A Hydrological Inquiry into the Temperature Metaphor of Revelation 3:15–16

Abstract

Laodicea is the last of the Seven Churches mentioned in the book of Revelation chapters 1–3. This article examines the interpretative issues related to the well-known temperature metaphor found in chapter 3:15–16. The mention of “hot, cold, and lukewarm” has been related to the city’s hydrological situation. First discussed are the early travelers to the site and what they wrote about its water system. In the twentieth century various interpretations arose that suggested its water source was inferior to others in the Lycus valley such as at Hierapolis and Colossae. The excavation of Laodicea beginning in 2003 has revealed much new information about the city’s hydrological situation. The proconsul’s edict about water found at the South Nymphaeum gives further insight into the city’s hydrology. Unfortunately, none of this is being reflected in contemporary discussions of the temperature metaphor in Revelation. After reviewing this new data, the article concludes that the interpretation that the temperature metaphor cannot be related to Laodicea’s hydrological situation.