Where did the saying blood is thicker than wateroriginate?

The saying "blood is thicker than water" suggests that familial bonds are stronger than other relationships. Its origins are somewhat debated, but it is often thought to have emerged from medieval European proverbs. Some interpretations suggest it highlights the importance of loyalty to family over friendships. However, an alternative interpretation of the phrase's full version suggests that "the blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb," implying that chosen bonds can be stronger than those of family.