Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, wells were vital sources of water, essential for survival in the arid regions of the Near East. They were often privately owned and represented a significant investment of labor and resources. As such, the use of wells was governed by social customs and legal rights, reflecting the importance of respecting property and community resources.Biblical Context and Significance Wells are frequently mentioned in the Bible, serving as settings for significant events and symbols of God's provision. They were often located outside city gates or in open fields, making them accessible yet vulnerable to misuse by strangers or travelers. The control and use of wells were crucial for maintaining peace and order within communities. Strangers and Permission The Bible underscores the importance of respecting the ownership of wells. In Genesis 21:25, Abraham reproaches Abimelech because his servants had seized a well that Abraham had dug. This incident highlights the expectation that strangers or outsiders should not use a well without the owner's consent. The act of taking water from a well without permission was considered a serious offense, as it infringed upon the rights and labor of the well's owner. Proverbs 5:15-17 metaphorically advises, "Drink water from your own cistern, and running water from your own well. Should your springs overflow in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares? Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers." This passage, while primarily addressing marital fidelity, also reflects the broader principle of respecting personal and communal resources. Cultural and Legal Implications In ancient Israel, the ownership and use of wells were often protected by covenants and agreements. Genesis 26:18-22 recounts Isaac's experience with the Philistines, who quarreled over wells that Isaac's servants had dug. Isaac's response was to move and dig new wells, eventually finding a place where he could live in peace. This narrative illustrates the importance of negotiation and respect for established rights in resolving disputes over water resources. The Mosaic Law also provided guidelines for the use of communal resources, emphasizing justice and fairness. Deuteronomy 23:24-25 allows for the consumption of a neighbor's produce in moderation but implicitly supports the principle of seeking permission and respecting boundaries. Theological Reflections Wells in the Bible often symbolize spiritual sustenance and divine blessing. Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well in John 4:7-15 reveals a deeper spiritual truth about the "living water" He offers, which surpasses the physical water drawn from a well. This encounter underscores the transformative power of Christ's message, transcending cultural and social barriers. In a broader theological sense, the principle of not drawing from a well without permission can be seen as a call to respect God's provision and the stewardship entrusted to individuals and communities. It serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity, respect for others' labor, and the responsible use of resources. Conclusion The biblical principle that strangers should not draw from wells without permission reflects a deep respect for property rights and community harmony. It underscores the importance of seeking consent and honoring the labor and investment of others, while also pointing to the spiritual truths embodied in the imagery of wells throughout Scripture. Torrey's Topical Textbook Numbers 20:17Let us pass, I pray you, through your country: we will not pass through the fields, or through the vineyards, neither will we drink of the water of the wells: we will go by the king's high way, we will not turn to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed your borders. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Political Constitution of Egypt Letter cviii. To Eustochium. Ancient Chaldaea The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Last Days of the Old Eastern World The First Theban Empire Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt The Reaction against Egypt 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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