Topical Encyclopedia The Wells of Jacob, often referred to as Jacob's Well, hold significant historical and theological importance within the biblical narrative. Located near the ancient city of Shechem, in the region of Samaria, this well is traditionally identified with the site where Jacob, the patriarch, settled after his return from Paddan Aram. The well is mentioned in the context of Jacob's acquisition of land and his establishment of a homestead in the area.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 33:18-20 · Jacob's arrival in Shechem is documented in the Book of Genesis. After reconciling with his brother Esau, Jacob travels to Shechem, where he purchases a parcel of land from the sons of Hamor, Shechem's father. "After Jacob came from Paddan Aram, he arrived safely at the city of Shechem in the land of Canaan, and he camped within sight of the city. For a hundred pieces of silver, he bought from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem, the plot of ground where he pitched his tent. There he set up an altar and called it El-Elohe-Israel" . 2. John 4:5-6 · The New Testament provides a significant account of Jacob's Well in the Gospel of John. It is here that Jesus encounters the Samaritan woman, leading to a profound theological discourse on worship and the living water that He offers. "So He came to a town of Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Since Jacob’s well was there, Jesus, tired from His journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour" . Historical and Theological Significance: The Wells of Jacob are emblematic of God's provision and faithfulness to His people. The well itself is a symbol of sustenance and life, providing water in a region where such resources are scarce. Jacob's acquisition of the land and the subsequent establishment of a well signify God's promise to Abraham and his descendants, as Jacob, Abraham's grandson, continues to inhabit and cultivate the Promised Land. In the New Testament, Jacob's Well becomes a setting for one of Jesus' most profound teachings. The encounter with the Samaritan woman highlights the breaking down of social and ethnic barriers, as Jesus, a Jew, speaks with a Samaritan. This interaction underscores the universality of the Gospel message and the living water that Christ offers, which transcends physical thirst and points to eternal life. Cultural and Archaeological Context: Jacob's Well is traditionally located near the modern-day city of Nablus, in the West Bank. The well is approximately 135 feet deep and has been a site of pilgrimage and veneration for centuries. Archaeological evidence and historical records support its identification as a significant landmark in biblical history. Throughout the centuries, the well has been a focal point for Christian devotion, with various churches and monasteries established in its vicinity. The well's enduring presence serves as a tangible connection to the patriarchal narratives of the Old Testament and the life and ministry of Jesus Christ in the New Testament. Conclusion: The Wells of Jacob, particularly Jacob's Well, serve as a powerful testament to the continuity of God's covenantal promises and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through history. The well not only provided physical sustenance to Jacob and his descendants but also became a site of spiritual revelation and transformation through the ministry of Jesus Christ. Nave's Topical Index John 4:6Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour. Nave's Topical Index Library Here Beginneth the Life of Isaac Concerning the Sons of Isaac, Esau and Jacob; of their Nativity ... Appendix D. Here Beginneth the History of Joseph and his Brethren Here Next Followeth the History of Moses Letter W Here Followeth the History of Tobit Jesus at the Well. The General Conference of 1828 Joseph the Dreamer. Resources What does the Bible say about human rights? | GotQuestions.orgShould a Christian be opposed to globalization? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that God is the God of the hills and valleys (1 Kings 20:28)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Wells of the Holy Spirit in Saints Wells of the Mouth of the Righteous Wells of the Ordinances of the Church Wells of Wisdom and Understanding in Man Wells were a Frequent Cause of Strife Wells were often Stopped up by Enemies Wells: (A Fruitful Bough By) of Joseph's Numerous Posterity Wells: (Drinking from One's Own) of Enjoyment of Domestic Wells: (Without Water) Hypocrites Wells: Flgurative of Salvation Wells: Flgurative without Water Wells: Frequented by Travellers Wells: Frequented by Women Who Came to Draw Water Wells: Frequently Made in the Courts of Houses Wells: Frequently Made in the Desert Wells: Frequently Made: Near Encampments Wells: Frequently Made: Outside Cities Wells: had Troughs Placed Near for Watering Cattle Wells: Many Supplied from Lebanon Wells: Often Afforded No Water Wells: Often Covered to Prevent Their Being Filled With Sand Wells: Often Deep and Difficult to Draw From Wells: Strangers not to Draw From, Without Permission Wells: The Occasion of Feuds: Between Abraham and Abimelech Wells: The Occasion of Feuds: Between Isaac and Abimelech Wells: Water of, Frequently Sold Related Terms |
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