Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Reference: Sitnah is one of the wells mentioned in the Book of Genesis, specifically in the narrative concerning Isaac, the son of Abraham. The account of Sitnah is found in Genesis 26:17-22. This well is part of a series of wells that Isaac's servants dug in the Valley of Gerar, a region that Isaac temporarily settled in during a time of famine. Historical and Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, wells were vital for survival, providing necessary water for people, livestock, and agriculture. They were often sources of conflict, as water rights were crucial in arid regions. The digging and naming of wells were significant events, often marking territorial claims and symbolizing God's provision and blessing. Biblical Account: After Isaac settled in the Valley of Gerar, his servants dug a well, which led to a dispute with the herdsmen of Gerar. The first well they dug was called Esek, meaning "contention," because the local herdsmen quarreled with Isaac's servants over it. They then dug another well, which was also contested, and Isaac named it Sitnah, meaning "hostility" or "opposition." The Berean Standard Bible records this event as follows: "Then they dug another well and quarreled over that one also; so he named it Sitnah." (Genesis 26:21) Theological Significance: The naming of the well Sitnah reflects the ongoing struggle and opposition Isaac faced from the Philistines in Gerar. Despite these challenges, Isaac's response was marked by perseverance and faith. He did not retaliate or engage in conflict but moved on to dig another well, eventually finding a place of peace and prosperity. This narrative highlights themes of patience, reliance on God's provision, and the importance of maintaining peace amidst adversity. Symbolism and Lessons: Sitnah serves as a symbol of the trials and opposition believers may face in their spiritual journey. The well's name, meaning "hostility," reminds readers of the reality of conflict in a fallen world. However, Isaac's experience teaches that God's faithfulness endures through trials, and His blessings are not thwarted by human opposition. The account encourages believers to trust in God's timing and provision, even when faced with hostility. Related Entries: · Wells: Esek · Wells: Rehoboth · Isaac · Gerar · Philistines Cross-References: · Genesis 26:17-22 · Genesis 21:25-31 (Abraham's well at Beersheba) · Exodus 17:1-7 (Water from the rock at Rephidim) · John 4:1-42 (Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well) The account of Sitnah, while brief, is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by the patriarchs and the enduring faithfulness of God in the midst of adversity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 26:21And they dig another well, and strove for that also: and he called the name of it Sitnah. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The First Apostle of Peace at any Price Chapter xxvi Resources What does the Bible say about human rights? | GotQuestions.orgShould a Christian be opposed to globalization? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that God is the God of the hills and valleys (1 Kings 20:28)? | 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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