Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: Beer-Lahai-Roi, also known as Lahai-Roi, is a significant well mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. The name Beer-Lahai-Roi is often translated as "The Well of the Living One Who Sees Me." This name reflects the divine encounter and the profound spiritual experience associated with this location. Biblical References: Beer-Lahai-Roi is first mentioned in the Book of Genesis in connection with Hagar, the Egyptian maidservant of Sarai (later Sarah), the wife of Abram (later Abraham). After fleeing from Sarai due to mistreatment, Hagar encounters the Angel of the LORD by a spring in the wilderness. This spring is identified as Beer-Lahai-Roi. Genesis 16:13-14 states: "So Hagar gave this name to the LORD who had spoken to her: 'You are the God who sees me,' for she said, 'Here I have seen the One who sees me!' Therefore the well was called Beer-Lahai-Roi. It is located between Kadesh and Bered." The well is mentioned again in Genesis 24:62 and Genesis 25:11 in connection with Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah. After the death of Abraham, Isaac is said to have settled near Beer-Lahai-Roi. Historical and Geographical Context: Beer-Lahai-Roi is situated in the Negev region, between Kadesh and Bered. The exact location of the well is not definitively known today, but it is traditionally believed to be in the southern part of present-day Israel. The well's location in the wilderness underscores its role as a place of refuge and divine encounter. Theological Significance: Beer-Lahai-Roi holds deep theological significance as a place where God's presence and providence are revealed. Hagar's encounter with the Angel of the LORD at this well is one of the earliest recorded theophanies in the Bible. The name "The Well of the Living One Who Sees Me" emphasizes God's omniscience and His compassionate awareness of human suffering and need. Hagar's experience at Beer-Lahai-Roi is a powerful testament to God's care for the marginalized and oppressed. Despite her status as a foreign servant, Hagar receives a divine promise concerning her son Ishmael, affirming God's inclusive covenantal blessings. For Isaac, Beer-Lahai-Roi represents a place of continuity and divine favor. After Abraham's death, Isaac's dwelling near the well signifies the ongoing fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham's descendants. Cultural and Spiritual Insights: Beer-Lahai-Roi serves as a reminder of the importance of water sources in the arid landscapes of the ancient Near East. Wells were vital for survival, and they often became centers of social and spiritual activity. The well's association with divine encounters highlights the belief in God's immanence and His willingness to meet individuals in their moments of distress. In a broader spiritual context, Beer-Lahai-Roi symbolizes the idea that God sees and knows each person intimately. It encourages believers to trust in God's watchful care and to seek His presence in times of need. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 16:14Why the well was called Beerlahairoi; behold, it is between Kadesh and Bered. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 24:62 Genesis 25:11 Library Chapter xvi Chapter xxv Chapter xxiv Resources Places in Israel ' Article Index | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about drinking alcohol / wine? Is it a sin for a Christian to drink alcohol / wine? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Philistines? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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