Topical Encyclopedia Jackal's Well is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Nehemiah. It is referenced in the context of Nehemiah's inspection of the walls of Jerusalem, which had been broken down and burned with fire. The well is part of the detailed account of Nehemiah's nighttime survey of the city's defenses as he prepared to lead the effort to rebuild the walls.Biblical Reference: The mention of Jackal's Well is found in Nehemiah 2:13. The Berean Standard Bible states: "So I went out at night through the Valley Gate toward the Jackal Well and the Dung Gate, and I inspected the walls of Jerusalem that had been broken down and the gates that had been destroyed by fire." Historical and Geographical Context: Jackal's Well, also known as the "Dragon's Well" in some translations, is believed to be located near the southern part of ancient Jerusalem. The exact location of the well is not definitively known today, but it is thought to be in the vicinity of the Valley of Hinnom, a place associated with the refuse and waste of the city, which aligns with the proximity to the Dung Gate mentioned in the same verse. The term "jackal" in the name may refer to the presence of these animals in the area, which were common in the region and often associated with desolate or abandoned places. The well itself would have been an important water source for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, especially during the time of Nehemiah's reconstruction efforts. Theological Significance: In the narrative of Nehemiah, Jackal's Well represents a point of transition and determination. Nehemiah's inspection of the walls, including his passage by the well, underscores his commitment to restoring the physical and spiritual integrity of Jerusalem. The rebuilding of the walls was not merely a construction project but a divine mission to reestablish the city as a center of worship and covenant faithfulness. Nehemiah's journey past Jackal's Well symbolizes the challenges and opposition faced by the people of God in their efforts to restore what has been broken. It serves as a reminder of the perseverance required to fulfill God's purposes, even when confronted with desolation and ruin. Cultural and Symbolic Interpretation: In a broader cultural and symbolic sense, Jackal's Well can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual renewal and cleansing that comes from addressing the brokenness in one's life. Just as Nehemiah took stock of the physical ruins, believers are called to examine their own lives, identify areas of spiritual decay, and seek God's guidance in rebuilding and restoring their relationship with Him. The mention of Jackal's Well in the biblical text invites reflection on the themes of restoration, resilience, and reliance on God's provision and protection. It highlights the importance of faith-driven action in the face of adversity and the transformative power of God's presence in the midst of desolation. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Jackal's WellJACKAL'S WELL (`en ha-tannin; Septuagint has pege ton sukon, "fountain of the figs"; the King James Version dragon well): A well or spring in the valley of Hinnom between the "Gate of the Gai" and the Dung Gate (Nehemiah 2:13). No such source exists in the Wady er Rababi (see HINNOM, VALLEY OF) today, although it is very probable that a well sunk to the rock in the lower parts of this valley might strike a certain amount of water trickling down the valley-bottom. G.A. Smith suggests (Jerusalem, I, chapter iv) that this source may have arisen as the result of an earthquake, hence, the name "dragon," and have subsequently disappeared; but it is at least as likely that it received its name from the jackals which haunted this valley, as the pariah dogs do today, to consume the dead bodies which were thrown there. Library By the Wayside The Political Constitution of Egypt The Gods of Egypt Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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