Topical Encyclopedia Fish-pools, also referred to as fishponds or reservoirs, are bodies of water mentioned in the Bible, often associated with beauty, abundance, and sustenance. These pools were typically man-made and served various purposes, including irrigation, water storage, and fish farming. In the arid regions of the ancient Near East, such pools were vital for agricultural and domestic needs.Biblical References: 1. Song of Solomon 7:4 : "Your neck is like a tower of ivory; your eyes are like the pools of Heshbon by the gate of Bath-rabbim. Your nose is like the tower of Lebanon facing toward Damascus." In this poetic imagery, the pools of Heshbon are used to describe the beauty and allure of the beloved. Heshbon was a significant city in the territory of the tribe of Reuben, known for its strategic location and abundant water sources. The pools here symbolize tranquility and depth, enhancing the metaphor of the beloved's eyes. 2. Isaiah 22:9-11 : "You saw that the breaches of the City of David were many. You collected water from the lower pool. You counted the houses of Jerusalem and tore them down to strengthen the wall. You built a reservoir between the two walls for the water of the old pool, but you did not look to the One who made it, or consider Him who planned it long ago." This passage highlights the importance of water management in Jerusalem, where pools and reservoirs were crucial for the city's defense and survival. The "lower pool" and the "old pool" refer to the water systems that were part of the city's infrastructure, emphasizing the need for both physical and spiritual reliance on God. 3. Nehemiah 3:15 : "Shallun son of Col-hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah, repaired the Fountain Gate. He rebuilt it, roofed it, and set its doors, bolts, and bars in place. He also repaired the wall of the Pool of Shelah, near the king’s garden, as far as the stairs that descend from the City of David." The Pool of Shelah, also known as the Pool of Siloam, was an essential water source for Jerusalem. It was fed by the Gihon Spring through Hezekiah's Tunnel, providing water for the city and its gardens. This pool is significant in both Old and New Testament contexts, as it later becomes the site of one of Jesus' miracles (John 9:7). Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israel, fish-pools were not only practical but also held symbolic significance. They represented life, prosperity, and divine blessing. The construction and maintenance of these pools required considerable effort and ingenuity, reflecting the community's ability to harness and manage natural resources effectively. Fish-pools were often located near cities or within royal gardens, serving as a testament to the wealth and sophistication of the ruling class. They were also places of leisure and reflection, contributing to the aesthetic and spiritual life of the community. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, fish-pools can be seen as symbols of God's provision and the abundance of His creation. They remind believers of the importance of stewardship and the need to rely on God's wisdom and guidance in managing the resources He provides. The imagery of water in the Bible often points to spiritual truths, such as purification, renewal, and the sustenance of life, all of which are embodied in the concept of fish-pools. Easton's Bible Dictionary (Cant. 7:4) should be simply "pools," as in the Revised Version. The reservoirs near Heshbon (q.v.) were probably stocked with fish (2 Samuel 2:13; 4:12; Isaiah 7:3; 22:9, 11). Library Thy Neck is as a Tower of ivory; Thine Eyes Like the Fish-Pools in ... Chapter vii Song of Songs of Solomon Solomon's Temple Spiritualized A Discourse The Pilgrim's Progress Thesaurus Fishpools (1 Occurrence)... 7:3; 22:9, 11). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. FISHPOOLS. fish'-pools: This is a mistranslation. The Hebrew berekhoth (Songs 7:4 ... /f/fishpools.htm - 7k Fish-pools (1 Occurrence) Fishnets (2 Occurrences) Fishhook (1 Occurrence) Fish's (1 Occurrence) Pool (25 Occurrences) Heshbon (37 Occurrences) Resources What is the difference between Microevolution and Macroevolution? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Christian fish symbol mean (ixthus / icthus)? | GotQuestions.org Did Jonah die while he was in the belly of the fish (Jonah 2)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Fish-pools (1 Occurrence)Song of Songs 7:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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