A.T. Robertson Commentary John 13:5

"Then he poureth water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples` feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded." — John 13:5 (ASV)

Poureth (βαλλε). Vivid present again. Literally, "putteth" (as in verse 2, βαλλω).

Into the basin (εις τον νιπτηρα). From verb νιπτω (later form of νιζω in this same verse and below) to wash, found only here and in quotations of this passage. Note the article, "the basin" in the room.

Began to wash (ηρξατο νιπτειν). Back to the aorist again as with διεζωσεν (verse 4). Νιπτω was common for washing parts of the body like the hands or the feet.

To wipe (εκμασσειν). "To wipe off" as in 12:3.

With the towel (τω λεντιω). Instrumental case and the article (pointing to λεντιον in verse 4).

Wherewith (ω). Instrumental case of the relative ο.

He was girded (ην διεζωσμενος). Periphrastic past perfect of διαζωννυω for which verb see verse 4.