The verb describes deliberate action that moves a vital substance from one vessel onto another object or person. The image is one of purposeful, beneficial outpouring rather than random spilling. In the broader Greco-Roman world it could describe libations or medical treatments; Scripture employs it in a context of mercy and restoration.

Sole New Testament Occurrence (Luke 10:34)

“He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.” (Luke 10:34)

In the parable of the Good Samaritan the action marks the turning point from mere observation to tangible compassion. The Samaritan’s pouring becomes the visible expression of neighbor-love, anticipating Jesus’ closing charge, “Go and do likewise” (Luke 10:37).

Historical and Medical Background

First-century medicine commonly used olive oil as a soothing emollient and wine as an antiseptic. Physicians such as Hippocrates and Galen described similar treatments. The Samaritan’s actions therefore align with best medical practice of the day, underscoring that godly compassion is not careless sentiment but informed, practical care.

Theological Significance

1. Mercy Embodied: The outpouring replaces the priest and Levite’s withholding, illustrating how covenant love transcends ethnic and religious boundaries (cf. Hosea 6:6).
2. Sacramental Echoes: Oil often signifies the Spirit’s consecration (1 Samuel 16:13); wine recalls covenant blood (Matthew 26:27-28). Their application to wounds prefigures Christ’s saving work that both anoints and cleanses.
3. Christological Portrait: Patristic writers perceived the Samaritan as a figure of Christ who “pours on” grace to heal humanity’s sin-inflicted injuries (Isaiah 53:5).

Old Testament Resonances

• Oil poured on Jacob’s pillar at Bethel (Genesis 28:18) marked a place of divine encounter.
• Priestly anointing (Exodus 29:7) and the healing balm of Gilead (Jeremiah 8:22) foreshadow restorative pouring.
• Drink offerings of wine (Numbers 15:5) symbolized fellowship with God. Luke’s narrative weaves these threads into a single act of restorative kindness.

Ministry and Discipleship Implications

• Compassionate Action: True neighbor-love involves expenditure of time, resources, and personal risk.
• Holistic Care: Physical healing and spiritual mercy are not rivals but partners in gospel ministry (James 2:15-17).
• Spirit-Empowered Service: Believers, filled with the Spirit’s “oil,” are called to be channels through which Christ’s healing is “poured out” upon the wounded world (Acts 2:17-18; Titus 3:5-6).

Exegetical Observations

The participle “pouring on” is sandwiched between “bandaged” and “put him on his own animal,” highlighting a deliberate sequence: assess, treat, transport. The Samaritan does not delegate but personally administers care, modeling servant leadership (Philippians 2:3-5).

Contemporary Application

• Medical Missions: Modern believers imitate the Samaritan when they integrate healthcare with gospel witness.
• Social Engagement: Pouring resources into marginalized communities reflects the kingdom ethic of proactive mercy.
• Personal Relationships: In daily life, words of encouragement and acts of service become “oil and wine” that God uses to heal relational wounds.

Summary

Strong’s Greek 2022 captures a decisive, compassionate outpouring that restores the afflicted. Though it appears only once in the New Testament, its placement in Luke 10:34 provides a vivid paradigm for Christian charity, rooted in Old Testament imagery, fulfilled in Christ, and commissioned to every disciple.