In the biblical narrative, wells hold significant importance, often serving as vital sources of water for both people and livestock. They are frequently mentioned in the context of encampments, where they provide the necessary sustenance for the nomadic tribes of Israel and other groups in the ancient Near East. The construction and maintenance of wells were crucial for survival in the arid regions where the biblical events unfolded.

Biblical Instances of Wells Near Encampments:

1. Abraham and Isaac's Wells:
Abraham, the patriarch, is noted for his interactions with wells, particularly in the region of Beersheba. In Genesis 21:30, Abraham makes a covenant with Abimelech, using seven ewe lambs to affirm his rights to a well he had dug. This well becomes a significant landmark, symbolizing God's provision and Abraham's faithfulness.

Isaac, Abraham's son, also had notable experiences with wells. In Genesis 26, Isaac reopens the wells that had been dug during his father's time, which the Philistines had stopped up. He also digs new wells, such as Rehoboth, where he declares, "For now the LORD has made room for us, and we will be fruitful in the land" (Genesis 26:22).

2. Jacob's Well:
Jacob, another patriarch, encounters wells during his journeys. In Genesis 29, Jacob arrives at a well in Haran, where he meets Rachel, his future wife. This well becomes a place of divine appointment and blessing, marking the beginning of Jacob's family in the land of his ancestors.

3. Moses and the Well of Midian:
After fleeing Egypt, Moses finds refuge in Midian, where he encounters the daughters of Reuel (Jethro) at a well. In Exodus 2:15-21, Moses defends them from shepherds and helps water their flock, leading to his eventual marriage to Zipporah, one of Reuel's daughters. This well serves as a turning point in Moses' life, setting the stage for his future leadership of the Israelites.

4. The Israelites in the Wilderness:
During the Exodus, the Israelites frequently camped near sources of water. In Numbers 21:16-18, the Israelites sing a song as they dig a well at Beer, a place where the LORD provided water for them. This well, dug by the leaders and nobles of the people, underscores the communal effort and divine provision experienced by the Israelites during their wilderness journey.

5. The Well at En-rogel:
En-rogel, a well located near Jerusalem, is mentioned in the context of David's reign. In 2 Samuel 17:17, it serves as a meeting place for Jonathan and Ahimaaz, who relay messages to King David during Absalom's rebellion. The well's strategic location highlights its importance in communication and survival during times of conflict.

Symbolic and Spiritual Significance:

Wells in the Bible often symbolize God's provision and faithfulness. They are places where divine encounters occur, where covenants are made, and where communities gather. The act of digging a well can represent faith, perseverance, and the anticipation of God's blessings. In John 4, Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well further elevates the spiritual significance of wells, as He offers "living water" that leads to eternal life (John 4:10).

Throughout the biblical narrative, wells near encampments serve as essential resources for physical sustenance and as powerful symbols of God's ongoing relationship with His people.Genesis 21:30
And he said, For these seven ewe lambs shall you take of my hand, that they may be a witness to me, that I have dig this well.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 26:18
And Isaac dig again the wells of water, which they had dig in the days of Abraham his father; for the Philistines had stopped them after the death of Abraham: and he called their names after the names by which his father had called them.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... these now all but desert spaces with wells and cisterns ... An attempt has been made
to identify the language ... Khumba, Umma, Umman, who recurs so frequently in the ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

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