En-Rogel, also known as the "spring of the fuller," is a significant geographical and historical site mentioned in the Bible. It is located near Jerusalem and holds importance in several biblical narratives. The name "En-Rogel" is derived from Hebrew, meaning "spring of the fuller" or "spring of the foot," possibly indicating its use in ancient times for washing clothes or feet.

Biblical References:

1. Joshua 15:7 : En-Rogel is first mentioned in the context of defining the territorial boundaries of the tribe of Judah. The passage states, "Then the border went up to Debir from the Valley of Achor, and turned northward toward Gilgal, which is opposite the ascent of Adummim, which is on the south side of the valley; and the border continued to the waters of En-Shemesh and ended at En-Rogel."

2. Joshua 18:16 : The spring is also noted in the delineation of the territory of the tribe of Benjamin. The text reads, "Then the border went down to the foot of the hill that overlooks the Valley of Ben Hinnom, which is at the northern end of the Valley of Rephaim. It then descended to the Valley of Hinnom, to the southern slope of the Jebusite city, and continued down to En-Rogel."

3. 2 Samuel 17:17 : En-Rogel plays a role in the narrative of King David's reign. During Absalom's rebellion, it served as a strategic location for communication. "Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz were staying at En-Rogel, where a servant girl would come and pass along information to them. They in turn would go and inform King David, for they dared not be seen entering the city."

4. 1 Kings 1:9 : The spring is also associated with the events surrounding the succession of King David. Adonijah, David's son, held a feast near En-Rogel as part of his attempt to claim the throne. "Adonijah sacrificed sheep, oxen, and fattened cattle near the stone of Zoheleth, which is beside En-Rogel, and invited all his brothers, the king’s sons, and all the men of Judah who were royal officials."

Historical and Archaeological Insights:

En-Rogel is traditionally identified with the modern-day Bir Ayyub, a well located in the Kidron Valley, southeast of Jerusalem. This identification is based on its proximity to the ancient city and its alignment with biblical descriptions. The spring's location made it a vital water source for the inhabitants of Jerusalem and a strategic point during times of conflict.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, En-Rogel serves as a backdrop for key events in Israel's history, illustrating themes of divine providence and the unfolding of God's plan for His people. The spring's role in the narratives of David and Solomon highlights the importance of divine guidance and the fulfillment of God's promises regarding leadership and kingship in Israel.

En-Rogel's mention in the context of boundary descriptions also underscores the significance of land and inheritance in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's covenantal promises to the tribes of Israel. The spring's presence in these accounts serves as a reminder of the physical and spiritual sustenance provided by God to His people throughout their history.Joshua 15:7
And the border went up toward Debir from the valley of Achor, and so northward, looking toward Gilgal, that is before the going up to Adummim, which is on the south side of the river: and the border passed toward the waters of Enshemesh, and the goings out thereof were at Enrogel:
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Joshua 18:16
And the border came down to the end of the mountain that lies before the valley of the son of Hinnom, and which is in the valley of the giants on the north, and descended to the valley of Hinnom, to the side of Jebusi on the south, and descended to Enrogel,
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2 Samuel 17:17
Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by Enrogel; for they might not be seen to come into the city: and a wench went and told them; and they went and told king David.
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Greek and Jew
... the south, and the sun had sloped until its early spring rays struck ... of skies the
pools of Siloam, Gihon, Shiloh, En-Rogel, the Great ... I could not get near her. ...
/.../miller/the city of delight/chapter viii greek and jew.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... which was in Shechem."** He dwelt at Ophrah, in the residence, and near the sanctuary ...
of the city: there was a Millo in every important town, Jerusalem included ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

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