Bathing
Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia
(2 Sam 11:2) - bathing and frequent washings were prescribed to the Hebrews by the Mosaic Law (Exod 30:18; Lev 14:8 and elsewhere). The hot eastern climate, heavy perspiration, long droughts, wind, dust, and fine sand made frequent bathing necessary for health. Public baths probably arose early, while the wealthy had them in their own houses (2 Sam 11:2; Susanna 15). Stone water jars were used for household washings (John 2:6). Scripture also mentions hot springs (Gen 36:24), and mineral baths existed at Callirrhoe by the Dead Sea, at Gadara near the Sea of Tiberias, and elsewhere.