Topical Bible: Pools and Ponds: The Old Pool

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In biblical times, pools and ponds were significant for both practical and symbolic reasons. They served as essential water sources for drinking, irrigation, and ritual purification. Among these, the "Old Pool" is mentioned in the context of ancient Jerusalem, highlighting its importance in the city's infrastructure and its role in biblical narratives.

The Old Pool in Scripture

The Old Pool is referenced in the book of Isaiah, specifically in Isaiah 22:9, which states: "You saw that the breaches in the walls of the City of David were many. You collected water from the lower pool." This passage is part of a prophecy concerning the impending siege of Jerusalem, where the city's leaders are criticized for their lack of faith and reliance on human efforts rather than trusting in God. The Old Pool, likely a reservoir or cistern, was part of the city's water supply system, crucial during times of siege.

Historical and Archaeological Context

The Old Pool is believed to be part of the waterworks associated with the Gihon Spring, one of Jerusalem's primary water sources. The Gihon Spring was ingeniously harnessed by the ancient inhabitants of Jerusalem through a series of tunnels and pools, including the famous Siloam Tunnel, attributed to King Hezekiah. This network was vital for sustaining the city, especially during periods of conflict.

The Old Pool's exact location is a matter of scholarly debate, but it is generally thought to be in the vicinity of the City of David, near the Gihon Spring. Archaeological excavations in this area have uncovered various water systems, including channels and pools, which align with the biblical descriptions.

Symbolic Significance

In the biblical narrative, water often symbolizes life, purification, and divine provision. The Old Pool, as part of Jerusalem's water system, represents the city's reliance on God's provision and the necessity of faith in His protection. The criticism in Isaiah 22 highlights a spiritual lesson: the futility of relying solely on human ingenuity without seeking God's guidance and support.

Theological Reflections

From a theological perspective, the mention of the Old Pool in Isaiah serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and trust in God. The physical preparations for defense, such as securing water supplies, are necessary, but they should not replace spiritual readiness and dependence on divine intervention. This theme resonates throughout Scripture, emphasizing that true security and peace come from God alone.

In summary, the Old Pool is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of ancient Jerusalem's inhabitants, while also serving as a poignant symbol of the need for faith and reliance on God in the face of adversity.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 22:11
You made also a ditch between the two walls for the water of the old pool: but you have not looked to the maker thereof, neither had respect to him that fashioned it long ago.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

La Brea
... 'In one of the star-shaped pools of water ... Of old, it was kept with care and dried
down to a gum ... that it was a huge Caddis, like those in English ponds and streams ...
//christianbookshelf.org/kingsley/at last/chapter viii la brea.htm

The Water of Life;
... prophets and servants of God in the Old Testament, did ... We are but as ponds, pools,
and cisterns, that can hold ... I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the water of life.htm

Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses.
... When God had his people into Babylon of old, he presented them with ... them, they will
of themselves become such stinking rivers, ponds and pools, that flesh ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/of antichrist and his ruin .htm

The Political Constitution of Egypt
... to-day, when we enter one of these decorated chapels, the idea of death scarcely
presents itself: we have rather the impression of being in some old-world house ...
/.../chapter ithe political constitution of.htm

The Saints' Privilege and Profit;
... Thus, then, were things of old ordained in the type ... is plenty of water; a pond, a
pool, a cistern ... but rivers will satisfy such a soul; ponds, pools, and cisterns ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the saints privilege and profit.htm