Baptism, according to the presented source materials, can indeed be interpreted as a ritual whose meaning changed according to historical and cultural contexts, holding a special place in the religious experience by simultaneously reflecting ideas of purification, renewal, and entry into the community of believers.

Baptism: A Transformative Journey Through Time

Baptism, according to the presented source materials, can indeed be interpreted as a ritual whose meaning changed according to historical and cultural contexts, holding a special place in the religious experience by simultaneously reflecting ideas of purification, renewal, and entry into the community of believers.

According to the text from the material “ link txt”, in early Christian literature the term “Baptism” held multiple meanings. For example, one quote states:
"In Christian sources from the subsequent period (IV–VIII centuries), the term 'Baptism' began to be used with other meanings as well. In particular, the act of penance and the Sacrament of Confession came to be called 'Baptism of Tears' [...]" (source: link txt).
This indicates that the baptism ritual underwent semantic changes: from its original symbolism of washing to eradicate sin to a ritual of profound spiritual transformation.

Also in the same source it is noted:
"The first Baptism was a Baptism by flood for the eradication of sin. The second – Baptism by sea and by cloud, as the cloud is a symbol of the spirit and the sea represents water. The third – Baptism according to the law (Mosaic) [...] And we are baptized with the perfected Baptism of the Lord, i.e., with water and Spirit." (source: link txt).
This sequence of layers of meaning emphasizes that over time the significance of the baptism rite expanded and deepened, transforming into a multifaceted sacrament that incorporates both physical washing and spiritual renewal.

The perspective presented in the material from “ link txt” is also intriguing:
"Thus, baptism is a ritual that was originally intended for pagans wishing to become part of God's people and was regarded by the Jews as a shameful washing. However, Jesus Himself underwent this ritual to demonstrate His unity with humanity, including those who were considered unclean." (source: link txt).
This approach reflects the shift in the perception of baptism: from a ritual that imposed a stigma of origin to an act symbolizing acceptance, equality, and a profound connection with the Divine. It underscores that the meaning of baptism in the religious experience lies in its capacity to transform a person's inner state, inviting them toward spiritual renewal and communion with the community of believers.

Thus, baptism can be seen not as a static ritual but as one that evolves, with each historical stage adding new nuances to its meaning. It becomes not merely an act of physical washing, but a symbol of dying to sin and rising to a "renewed life," which is reflected in the individual's personal religious experience and constant pursuit of Divine grace.

Supporting citation(s):
"In Christian sources from the subsequent period (IV–VIII centuries), the term 'Baptism' began to be used with other meanings as well. In particular, the act of penance and the Sacrament of Confession came to be called 'Baptism of Tears' [...]" (source: link txt)

"The first Baptism was a Baptism by flood for the eradication of sin. The second – Baptism by sea and by cloud, as the cloud is a symbol of the spirit and the sea represents water. The third – Baptism according to the law (Mosaic) [...] And we are baptized with the perfected Baptism of the Lord, i.e., with water and Spirit." (source: link txt)

"Thus, baptism is a ritual that was originally intended for pagans wishing to become part of God's people and was regarded by the Jews as a shameful washing. However, Jesus Himself underwent this ritual to demonstrate His unity with humanity, including those who were considered unclean." (source: link txt)