Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: Beer-la-hai-roi, meaning "Well of the Living One who sees me," is a significant location in the biblical narrative, particularly in the Book of Genesis. It is a well in the Negev desert, associated with the account of Hagar, the Egyptian maidservant of Sarai (later Sarah), the wife of Abram (later Abraham). Biblical References: The primary reference to Beer-la-hai-roi is found in Genesis 16:14. After Hagar fled from Sarai due to mistreatment, she encountered the Angel of the LORD by a spring in the wilderness. The Angel instructed her to return to Sarai and submit to her, promising that her descendants would be too numerous to count. In response to this divine encounter, Hagar named the well Beer-la-hai-roi, acknowledging the presence and care of God who saw her distress. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi. It is located between Kadesh and Bered." Beer-la-hai-roi is also mentioned in Genesis 24:62 and Genesis 25:11. In Genesis 24:62, Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, is described as coming from Beer-la-hai-roi when he first meets Rebekah, his future wife. Genesis 25:11 notes that after the death of Abraham, God blessed Isaac, and he lived near Beer-la-hai-roi. Geographical Location: Beer-la-hai-roi is situated in the Negev region, between Kadesh and Bered. The exact location is not definitively known today, but it is traditionally placed in the southern part of modern-day Israel. The well's location in the arid desert underscores the significance of water sources in the biblical narrative and the providence of God in sustaining life. Theological Significance: Beer-la-hai-roi holds deep theological importance as it represents God's omnipresence and His care for the marginalized and oppressed. Hagar's encounter with the Angel of the LORD at this well is one of the earliest biblical instances of divine intervention and revelation to a non-Israelite. It highlights God's compassion and His attentiveness to human suffering, as Hagar, an Egyptian servant, is seen and heard by God. The name "Well of the Living One who sees me" reflects Hagar's recognition of God's personal involvement in her life. This encounter reassures believers of God's intimate knowledge of their circumstances and His willingness to provide guidance and hope in times of distress. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, wells were vital for survival, serving as essential water sources for people and livestock. They were often places of social interaction and divine encounters, as seen in various biblical accounts. Beer-la-hai-roi, as a well in the desert, symbolizes sustenance and divine provision in a barren land. The account of Hagar at Beer-la-hai-roi also sheds light on the complex social dynamics of the patriarchal period, including issues of slavery, family hierarchy, and God's overarching plan for His people. Hagar's experience at the well foreshadows God's inclusive promise to bless all nations through Abraham's descendants. Legacy and Influence: Beer-la-hai-roi continues to be a symbol of hope and divine care in Christian thought. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and His ability to see and respond to the needs of His people, regardless of their status or background. The well's legacy is preserved in the biblical narrative as a testament to God's enduring presence and His commitment to fulfilling His promises. Concordance Beer-la-hai-roi (1 Occurrence)Genesis 16:14 Thesaurus Beerlahairoi (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Beerlahairoi (1 Occurrence). Genesis 16:14 Wherefore the well was called Beerlahairoi; behold, it is between Kadesh and Bered. (KJV). ... /b/beerlahairoi.htm - 8k Beer-la-hai-roi (1 Occurrence) Beer-la'hai-roi (3 Occurrences) Beer-lahai-roi (3 Occurrences) Beeroth (7 Occurrences) Be-e'ri (2 Occurrences) Resources What is the biblical significance of Beer Lahai Roi? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Hagar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Questions about Places in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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