Topical Encyclopedia In the ancient Near East, wells were vital sources of water, especially in arid regions. They served as essential landmarks and gathering places for travelers, herdsmen, and local inhabitants. The Bible frequently mentions wells, highlighting their importance in the daily life and spiritual narratives of the people.Biblical Significance of Wells Wells were not only practical necessities but also held significant social and spiritual connotations. They were often sites of divine encounters, covenants, and pivotal events in biblical history. The presence of a well could determine the prosperity of a region, as water was crucial for sustaining life, agriculture, and livestock. Key Biblical Wells and Their Stories 1. The Well of Lahai Roi: This well is first mentioned in the account of Hagar, the Egyptian maidservant of Sarah. After fleeing from Sarah's harsh treatment, Hagar encounters the Angel of the Lord by a spring in the wilderness, which is identified as the well of Lahai Roi. Here, God promises her numerous descendants through her son Ishmael (Genesis 16:7-14). This well later becomes associated with Isaac, who dwells in the region (Genesis 24:62). 2. Beersheba: Abraham and Abimelech, the king of Gerar, make a covenant at Beersheba, a location named for the well that Abraham dug and the oath they swore there (Genesis 21:25-31). Beersheba becomes a significant patriarchal site, with Isaac and Jacob also having associations with it (Genesis 26:23-33; 46:1-5). 3. Jacob's Well: Located near the town of Sychar in Samaria, Jacob's Well is the setting for Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman. This meeting, recorded in John 4:5-42, reveals Jesus as the source of "living water," offering eternal life to those who believe in Him. The well symbolizes the transition from the old covenant to the new, as Jesus reaches out to a Samaritan, breaking cultural barriers. 4. The Well at Rehoboth: Isaac, like his father Abraham, faced disputes over wells with the Philistines. After several conflicts, Isaac digs a well at Rehoboth, where there is no contention. He names it Rehoboth, saying, "Now the LORD has given us room and we will flourish in the land" (Genesis 26:22). This well signifies God's provision and blessing. Wells as Meeting Places Wells were common meeting places for people, often serving as the backdrop for significant interactions. For instance, Rebekah is chosen as Isaac's wife when Abraham's servant meets her at a well (Genesis 24:11-27). Similarly, Moses encounters Zipporah, his future wife, at a well in Midian (Exodus 2:15-21). Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons Wells in the Bible often symbolize sustenance, life, and divine provision. They remind believers of God's faithfulness and the spiritual nourishment found in Him. Jesus' reference to "living water" at Jacob's Well underscores the spiritual life and satisfaction that only He can provide. In summary, wells in biblical times were more than just physical sources of water; they were integral to the social, economic, and spiritual fabric of the community. They served as places of divine revelation, human interaction, and covenantal significance, reflecting the deep connection between the physical and spiritual realms in biblical narratives. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 24:11,13,42And he made his camels to kneel down without the city by a well of water at the time of the evening, even the time that women go out to draw water. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 4:6 Library The Reaction against Egypt Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Memphite Empire A Mystery! Saints Sorrowing and Jesus Glad! The Last Days of the Old Eastern World The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Resources What is the river of life? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened at the Pool of Siloam? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to do good unto all men in Galatians 6:10? | 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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