The "Waters of Shiloah" is a term found in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Isaiah. It refers to a gentle stream or water source located in Jerusalem, which holds both historical and symbolic significance within the biblical narrative.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to the Waters of Shiloah is found in Isaiah 8:6. The Berean Standard Bible translates this verse as follows: "Because this people has rejected the gently flowing waters of Shiloah and rejoices in Rezin and the son of Remaliah." This passage is part of a prophetic message delivered by Isaiah, addressing the people of Judah and their political alliances.

Historical Context:

The Waters of Shiloah, also known as the Pool of Siloam, was a water source in Jerusalem, fed by the Gihon Spring through the Siloam Tunnel. This water system was crucial for the city's water supply, especially during times of siege. The gentle flow of these waters contrasts with the turbulent political and military alliances that the people of Judah were pursuing at the time.

Symbolic Meaning:

In Isaiah's prophecy, the Waters of Shiloah symbolize God's provision and the peaceful, sustaining presence He offers to His people. The gentle flow of these waters stands in stark contrast to the tumultuous political climate and the people's reliance on foreign powers, represented by Rezin, king of Aram, and Pekah, son of Remaliah, king of Israel. By rejecting the Waters of Shiloah, the people of Judah were essentially rejecting God's protection and guidance, choosing instead to trust in human alliances.

Theological Implications:

The rejection of the Waters of Shiloah serves as a metaphor for the broader spiritual condition of Judah. It highlights the people's lack of faith in God's promises and their preference for worldly solutions over divine intervention. This theme is consistent with the prophetic messages throughout the book of Isaiah, which call the people back to trust in the Lord rather than in political or military might.

New Testament Connection:

The Pool of Siloam is also mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of John. In John 9:7, Jesus instructs a man born blind to wash in the Pool of Siloam, resulting in the man's miraculous healing. This event underscores the theme of spiritual sight and the recognition of Jesus as the source of living water, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament symbolism of God's provision and sustenance.

Conclusion:

The Waters of Shiloah, therefore, serve as a powerful symbol within the biblical narrative, representing God's gentle and sustaining presence amidst the challenges and uncertainties faced by His people. The rejection of these waters by the people of Judah serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of relying on human strength rather than trusting in the Lord's provision and guidance.the Waters Of Shiloah

a certain soft-flowing stream, (Isaiah 8:6) better known under the later name of Siloam -the only perennial spring of Jerusalem.

Shiloah and Euphrates
... SHILOAH AND EUPHRATES. Forasmuch as this people refuseth the waters of
Shiloah that go softly ... the Lord bringeth up upon them ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture h/shiloah and euphrates.htm

The City and River of God
... the mountain and moves the earth, is drawn by Isaiah in regard to the Assyrian invasion,
when he speaks of Israel refusing 'the waters of Shiloah, which go ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture j/the city and river of.htm

Christian Meekness
... Our words should be mild, like the waters of Shiloah which run softly. It is too
usual for passionate spirits to break out into opprobrious language. ...
/.../watson/the beatitudes an exposition of matthew 51-12/12 christian meekness.htm

The Influence of the King James Version on English Literature
... a sentence as this: "There are times when the grasshopper is a burden, and thirsty
with the heat of labor the spirit longs for the waters of Shiloah, that go ...
/.../mcafee/study of the king james bible/lecture iv the influence of.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... melody of thy viols. But let judgment roll down as waters, and righteousness
as a mighty stream."***. S. Jerome describes Amos ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

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