What does it mean to be born of water and Spirit?

In John 3:5, Jesus explains that to enter the kingdom of God, one must be born of water and the Spirit. This phrase does not refer to water baptism, as it is clear that baptism requires faith, and many who are baptized are yet unregenerate. Instead, it symbolizes the purification and renewal that comes through the Holy Spirit's work. The 'water' alludes to the cleansing from sin and the 'Spirit' indicates the transformative power of God that enables belief and spiritual sight. This dual aspect emphasizes that salvation is wholly a divine act, devoid of human effort.