Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:The well of Beer, located east of the Jordan River, holds a significant place in biblical history. This site is primarily noted for its association with the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. The name "Beer" itself means "well" in Hebrew, indicating its importance as a source of water in the arid landscape. Biblical References: The well of Beer is mentioned in the Book of Numbers, specifically in Numbers 21:16-18. This passage recounts a moment during the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land when they camped at Beer. The Berean Standard Bible states: "From there they went on to Beer, the well where the LORD said to Moses, 'Gather the people so that I may give them water.' Then Israel sang this song: 'Spring up, O well, all of you sing to it— the princes dug the well, the nobles of the people hollowed it out with their scepters and with their staffs.'" Historical and Theological Significance: The well of Beer is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it represents God's provision for the Israelites in the wilderness. The miraculous provision of water at Beer is a testament to God's faithfulness and care for His people, even in the most challenging circumstances. This event underscores the theme of divine sustenance that runs throughout the narrative of the Exodus and the wilderness wanderings. Secondly, the communal effort in digging the well, as described in the song sung by the Israelites, highlights the unity and cooperation among the tribes. The involvement of the "princes" and "nobles" suggests that leadership played a crucial role in facilitating God's provision, emphasizing the importance of godly leadership in guiding and sustaining the community. Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, wells were vital for survival, serving as essential sources of water for both people and livestock. They were often sites of social and economic activity, and their presence could determine the success or failure of a settlement. The well of Beer, therefore, would have been a critical resource for the Israelites as they journeyed through the desert. Conclusion: The well of Beer stands as a powerful symbol of God's provision and the cooperative spirit of the Israelite community. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, leadership, and unity in the face of adversity. The account of Beer in the biblical narrative encourages believers to trust in God's provision and to work together in harmony to achieve His purposes. Torrey's Topical Textbook Numbers 21:16-18And from there they went to Beer: that is the well whereof the LORD spoke to Moses, Gather the people together, and I will give them water. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Reaction against Egypt The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Resources What is the significance of Dothan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgHow can the light of stars billions of light years away from the earth have reached us if the earth is only thousands of years old? | GotQuestions.org Who was Isaac in the Bible? | 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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