Water-skins, also known as wineskins or leather bottles, are containers made from animal hides, traditionally used in biblical times for storing and transporting liquids such as water, wine, or oil. These vessels are frequently mentioned in the Bible, reflecting their importance in the daily life and culture of ancient Near Eastern societies.

Biblical References:

Water-skins are notably referenced in the context of Jesus' teaching in the New Testament. In Matthew 9:17 , Jesus says, "Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst; the wine will spill and the wineskins will be ruined. Instead, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved." This metaphor illustrates the incompatibility of the old and new covenants, emphasizing the need for renewal and transformation in spiritual life.

In the Old Testament, water-skins are mentioned in the account of Hagar and Ishmael. Genesis 21:14 recounts, "Early in the morning, Abraham got up, took bread and a skin of water, put them on Hagar's shoulders, and sent her away with the boy. She left and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba." This passage highlights the practical use of water-skins for survival in arid regions, as well as the reliance on God's provision in times of distress.

Cultural and Historical Context:

Water-skins were typically made from the hides of goats or sheep. The process involved cleaning and tanning the skin, then sewing it into a bag-like shape, with the openings sealed to prevent leakage. The elasticity and durability of the leather made it an ideal material for containing liquids, especially in the harsh climates of the Middle East.

The use of water-skins was not limited to the Israelites; they were common throughout the ancient world. Their portability made them essential for travelers, shepherds, and nomadic peoples who needed to carry water over long distances. The ability to store and transport liquids efficiently was crucial for survival and daily life in regions where water sources were scarce.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance:

In biblical symbolism, water-skins often represent the concept of containment and transformation. The analogy of new wine in new wineskins, as used by Jesus, underscores the transformative power of the Gospel and the necessity of a new heart and spirit to receive it. This teaching encourages believers to embrace change and renewal, allowing the Holy Spirit to work within them.

Furthermore, the account of Hagar and Ishmael serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and provision. Despite being sent into the wilderness with limited resources, Hagar's encounter with God reassures her of His care and promises for her son. The water-skin, in this context, becomes a symbol of God's sustenance and the hope found in His promises.

Conclusion:

Water-skins, as depicted in the Bible, are more than mere containers; they carry profound spiritual lessons and cultural insights. Their presence in Scripture invites reflection on the themes of renewal, provision, and the transformative power of God's covenant with His people.88. Oboth -- "water-skins," a place in Edom
... 87, 88. Oboth. 89 . "water-skins," a place in Edom. Transliteration: Oboth
Phonetic Spelling: (o-both') Short Definition: Oboth. Word Origin pl. ...
/hebrew/88.htm - 6k

Athor, the Golden
... Kenkenes picked his way through the debris of sticks, stones, dust and cast-off
water-skins, and serenely disregarding the stare of the laborers, went up to ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter vii athor the golden.htm

Thirst and Satisfaction
... There may be wells to which a man has to go, as the Bedouin in the desert has to
go, with empty water-skins, many a day's journey, and it comes to be a fight ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture j/thirst and satisfaction.htm

The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert
... It was long since they had had any good water, and Joseph was making ready to take
his water-skins on the donkey to fetch water from the balsam spring in the ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xvi the flight into egypt.htm

The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 8. <. ...
/.../chapter iithe power of assyria 2.htm

Waterskins (1 Occurrence)
...Waterskins (1 Occurrence). Job 38:37 By whose wisdom are the clouds numbered, or
the water-skins of the heavens turned to the earth, (See RSV). ...
/w/waterskins.htm - 6k

Water-skins (1 Occurrence)
Water-skins. Waterskins, Water-skins. Waterspout . Multi-Version Concordance ...
Waterskins, Water-skins. Waterspout . Reference Bible.
/w/water-skins.htm - 6k

Waterspout

/w/waterspout.htm - 7k

Water-skin (1 Occurrence)
Water-skin. Waterside, Water-skin. Waterskins . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(BBE). Waterside, Water-skin. Waterskins . Reference Bible.
/w/water-skin.htm - 6k

Tanner (3 Occurrences)
... About Hebron oak branches, chopped into small chips, are used for tanning the leather
bottles or waterskins. In this case the hair is not removed. ...
/t/tanner.htm - 11k

Jerusalem (782 Occurrences)
... When the water is scanty, the women of Siloam creep down into the cavity under the
steps and fill their water-skins there; at such times no water at all finds ...
/j/jerusalem.htm - 89k

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