Topical Encyclopedia In the ancient Near East, wells were vital sources of water, essential for the survival of people, livestock, and agriculture. The act of stopping up wells was a hostile action often employed by enemies to weaken or subdue a rival community or individual. This practice is documented in the Bible and serves as a symbol of conflict and enmity.Biblical Instances One of the most notable instances of wells being stopped up by enemies is found in the narrative of Isaac in the Book of Genesis. After the death of Abraham, Isaac faced hostility from the Philistines, who were envious of his prosperity. Genesis 26:15 states, "So the Philistines took dirt and stopped up all the wells that his father’s servants had dug in the days of his father Abraham." This act of aggression was intended to disrupt Isaac's livelihood and assert dominance over the region. Isaac's response to this provocation is significant. Instead of engaging in direct conflict, he chose to move and dig new wells, demonstrating a commitment to peace and perseverance. Genesis 26:18 records, "Isaac reopened the wells that had been dug in the days of his father Abraham and that the Philistines had stopped up after Abraham’s death, and he gave them the same names his father had given them." This act of reopening the wells symbolizes the restoration of rightful inheritance and the continuation of God's blessing. Symbolism and Theological Implications The stopping up of wells by enemies can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual opposition and the challenges faced by the faithful. Wells, as sources of life-giving water, are often associated with God's provision and blessing. The obstruction of these wells represents attempts by adversaries to hinder the flow of divine grace and sustenance. In a broader theological context, the act of reopening wells signifies resilience and faith in God's promises. It underscores the belief that, despite opposition, God's provision cannot be permanently thwarted. The narrative of Isaac and the wells serves as an encouragement to believers to persist in faith and trust in God's continued blessings, even in the face of adversity. Cultural and Historical Context In the arid climate of the ancient Near East, water was a precious commodity, and control over water sources was a strategic advantage. Wells were often located in contested territories, making them targets during conflicts. The act of stopping up wells was not only a practical measure to deprive enemies of water but also a symbolic gesture of dominance and control. The practice of stopping up wells reflects the broader theme of conflict over resources that is prevalent throughout biblical history. It highlights the challenges faced by the patriarchs and the ongoing struggle for survival and prosperity in a hostile environment. Conclusion The biblical accounts of wells being stopped up by enemies provide insight into the historical and spiritual challenges faced by God's people. These narratives emphasize the importance of perseverance, faith, and reliance on God's provision in the face of adversity. Through the example of Isaac, believers are encouraged to trust in God's faithfulness and to seek peace and restoration, even when confronted by opposition. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 26:15,18For all the wells which his father's servants had dig in the days of Abraham his father, the Philistines had stopped them, and filled them with earth. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Kings 3:19,25 Library Songs of Deliverance The First Apostle of Peace at any Price Following the Cloud. The Tangled Web Jesus in the Garden of Olives. Church Fabrics and Services. The Suicide of Thought The First Theban Empire A Prospect of Revival The Pilgrim's Progress 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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