Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, wells were essential sources of water, especially in arid regions where rainfall was scarce. The construction and maintenance of wells were crucial for sustaining life, agriculture, and livestock. Wells are frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing life, sustenance, and divine provision. They often served as gathering places and were central to many biblical narratives.Biblical Significance of Wells Wells in the Bible are often depicted as places of divine encounter and covenant. For instance, in Genesis 16:7-14, Hagar encounters the Angel of the Lord by a spring in the wilderness, which is a form of a well. This encounter leads to the naming of the well Beer-lahai-roi, meaning "the well of the Living One who sees me." Wells and Rainfall While wells are primarily fed by underground water sources, the Bible acknowledges the role of rain in replenishing these sources. Rain is seen as a blessing from God, essential for the fertility of the land and the replenishment of water supplies. In Deuteronomy 11:11-12, the Promised Land is described as "a land of hills and valleys that drinks rain from heaven," highlighting the divine provision of water through rainfall. Wells in the Patriarchal Narratives The patriarchs of Israel often interacted with wells, which were vital for their nomadic lifestyle. In Genesis 21:25-31, Abraham disputes with Abimelech over a well of water, leading to a covenant at Beersheba, which means "well of the oath." This narrative underscores the importance of wells as sources of life and symbols of peace and agreement. Isaac, Abraham's son, also had significant encounters with wells. In Genesis 26:18-22, Isaac reopens the wells dug by his father, which the Philistines had stopped up. He names one of the wells Rehoboth, saying, "Now the LORD has given us room, and we will flourish in the land" (Genesis 26:22). This act of reopening wells signifies the continuation of God's promise and blessing. Wells as Meeting Places Wells were not only sources of water but also social hubs where people gathered. In Genesis 24, Abraham's servant finds Rebekah at a well, leading to her becoming Isaac's wife. Similarly, in Exodus 2:15-21, Moses meets Zipporah at a well, which leads to his marriage to her. These encounters at wells often signify divine orchestration and the unfolding of God's plans. Spiritual Symbolism In the New Testament, wells take on a spiritual dimension. Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well in John 4:6-14 is a profound moment where He offers "living water" that leads to eternal life. This interaction highlights the transition from physical sustenance to spiritual fulfillment, with Jesus as the source of life-giving water. Conclusion Wells, supplied by rain and underground sources, are rich in biblical symbolism. They represent God's provision, the sustenance of life, and places of divine encounter. Throughout Scripture, wells are central to the narratives of the patriarchs and serve as metaphors for spiritual truths, pointing to God's enduring faithfulness and provision for His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 84:6Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also fills the pools. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library On the Firmament. Chapter xxvi How Moses when He had Brought the People Out of Egypt Led Hymns of Praise and Worship. Naparima and Montserrat The Old Testament and Comparative Religion Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest Ancient Chaldaea The Memphite Empire The Saints' Privilege and Profit; 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 |
    |