“Blood Is Thicker Than Water”—But Is It Really?By Dr. Jessica Sneha Gray

We’ve all heard it. “Blood is thicker than water.”It’s a phrase often tossed around to justify blind loyalty to family—even when that family is causing harm. But what if I told you that the quote we should be using isn’t the original, but it’s far more relevant?

Many people now refer to a powerful twist on the old saying:“The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb.”

No, it’s not the original. Historically, “blood is thicker than water” is the documented version, dating back centuries and meant to prioritise blood ties over chosen ones. The extended version? It likely emerged in more recent decades, crafted to challenge that very mindset. It never appeared in ancient texts or religious scripture—but that doesn’t make it meaningless. In fact, it makes it timely.

Sometimes, a quote doesn’t need to be old to be wise.Just as we’ve evolved our understanding of the world, maybe it’s time we evolve the way we look at our relationships too. Being born into the same bloodline does not automatically entitle someone to loyalty, love, or trust. Family is not just about who you’re related to. It’s about who shows up. Who stays. Who uplifts you. Who holds you accountable. Who helps you grow.

So maybe it’s okay that the new version isn’t ancient—because it speaks to a modern truth:Chosen bonds, built in truth and love, can be thicker than blood.

And as for family? Here’s my truth:

“DNA doesn’t define love, loyalty, or legacy. We are shaped not just by our genes, but by the environments, choices, and people that guide us. Family is more than shared chromosomes—it’s shared character.”

Let’s redefine DNA for what really matters today:D.N.A. = Devotion. Nurture. Alignment.That’s what real family is made of.