In the ancient Near East, wells were essential for survival, providing water in arid regions where natural water sources were scarce. The act of digging wells is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing not only physical sustenance but also spiritual and covenantal significance.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 21:25-31: The first significant mention of a well is in the account of Abraham and Abimelech. Abraham reproaches Abimelech because his servants had seized a well of water. This incident leads to a covenant between them at Beersheba, which means "Well of the Oath." The Berean Standard Bible states, "Abraham complained to Abimelech about a well that Abimelech’s servants had seized." This narrative highlights the importance of wells as a source of life and a point of contention and agreement.

2. Genesis 26:18-22: Isaac, Abraham's son, re-digs the wells that his father had originally dug, which the Philistines had stopped up after Abraham's death. The BSB records, "Isaac reopened the wells that had been dug in the days of his father Abraham." Isaac's actions symbolize the continuation of God's promises and blessings through the generations. The naming of the wells—Esek, Sitnah, and Rehoboth—reflects the struggles and eventual peace Isaac experienced.

3. Exodus 15:27: After the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, they arrive at Elim, where there are twelve wells of water. The BSB notes, "Then they came to Elim, where there were twelve springs and seventy palm trees, and they camped there by the waters." This oasis provided much-needed rest and refreshment for the Israelites, symbolizing God's provision and care.

4. Numbers 21:16-18: The Israelites sing a song as they dig a well in the wilderness. The BSB states, "From there they went on to Beer, the well where the LORD said to Moses, 'Gather the people together and I will give them water.'" This event underscores the communal effort and divine provision associated with well-digging.

5. John 4:6-14: In the New Testament, Jesus encounters a Samaritan woman at Jacob's well. The BSB recounts, "Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired from His journey, sat down by the well." Jesus uses the well as a metaphor for the living water He offers, which leads to eternal life. This interaction highlights the transition from physical to spiritual sustenance.

Symbolism and Significance:

Wells in the Bible often symbolize life, sustenance, and divine blessing. They are places of encounter, covenant, and revelation. The act of digging wells represents human effort in cooperation with divine provision. In a spiritual sense, wells can also symbolize the depth of God's word and the refreshment it provides to the soul.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient world, wells were vital for agriculture, livestock, and human consumption. They were often located along trade routes and served as gathering places for communities. The ownership and control of wells could lead to disputes, as seen in the narratives of Abraham and Isaac. Wells were also strategic assets, often marking territorial boundaries and serving as landmarks.

In summary, digged-wells in the Bible are more than just physical structures; they are rich in spiritual and covenantal meaning, reflecting God's provision and the faithfulness of His people.

On the Baptism of Christ.
... Yes, and Isaac himself also, when he was ruling his flocks, digged wells at all
parts of the desert, which the aliens stopped and filled up [2130] , for a type ...
/.../gregory/gregory of nyssa dogmatic treatises etc/on the baptism of christ.htm

Digged-wells (1 Occurrence)
Digged-wells. Diggedst, Digged-wells. Diggeth . Multi-Version
Concordance Digged-wells (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 9:25 ...
/d/digged-wells.htm - 6k

Diggeth (7 Occurrences)

/d/diggeth.htm - 8k

Well-nourished (1 Occurrence)
... Nehemiah 9:25 And they capture fenced cities, and fat ground, and possess houses
full of all good, digged-wells, vineyards, and olive-yards, and fruit-trees in ...
/w/well-nourished.htm - 6k

Diggedst (1 Occurrence)

/d/diggedst.htm - 6k

Fenced (61 Occurrences)
... Nehemiah 9:25 And they capture fenced cities, and fat ground, and possess houses
full of all good, digged-wells, vineyards, and olive-yards, and fruit-trees in ...
/f/fenced.htm - 27k

Capture (53 Occurrences)
... Nehemiah 9:25 And they capture fenced cities, and fat ground, and possess houses
full of all good, digged-wells, vineyards, and olive-yards, and fruit-trees in ...
/c/capture.htm - 23k

Captured (143 Occurrences)
... Nehemiah 9:25 And they capture fenced cities, and fat ground, and possess houses
full of all good, digged-wells, vineyards, and olive-yards, and fruit-trees in ...
/c/captured.htm - 36k

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