Fishpools, as referenced in the Bible, are bodies of water or ponds that were used for the cultivation and harvesting of fish. These pools were significant in ancient times for both sustenance and economic purposes. The term "fishpools" appears in the poetic and allegorical language of the Song of Solomon, which is rich in imagery and symbolism.

Biblical Reference:

The primary biblical reference to fishpools is found in the Song of Solomon 7:4, where the beauty of the beloved is described with vivid and picturesque language: "Your neck is like a tower of ivory; your eyes are the pools in Heshbon by the gate of Bath Rabbim. Your nose is like the tower of Lebanon facing toward Damascus."

In this passage, the "pools in Heshbon" are likened to the eyes of the beloved, suggesting clarity, depth, and tranquility. Heshbon was a significant city in ancient Moab, known for its strategic location and resources, including water sources that would have supported fishpools. The mention of these pools highlights the abundance and prosperity associated with the region.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near East, fishpools were essential for providing a steady supply of fish, which was a staple in the diet of many communities. These pools were often constructed near cities or settlements and were carefully maintained to ensure a sustainable yield. The presence of fishpools in a region indicated not only the availability of natural resources but also the ingenuity and agricultural practices of the people.

The reference to fishpools in the Song of Solomon reflects the agrarian lifestyle of the Israelites and their appreciation for the natural beauty and resources provided by God. The imagery used in the Song of Solomon often draws from the natural world, using familiar elements to convey deeper spiritual and emotional truths.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

In the allegorical interpretation of the Song of Solomon, which is often seen as a depiction of the love between Christ and His Church, the fishpools can symbolize the depth and purity of spiritual insight and understanding. Just as the pools in Heshbon were clear and life-sustaining, so too are the eyes of the beloved, representing spiritual discernment and the ability to perceive divine truths.

The use of fishpools as a metaphor in this context underscores the importance of spiritual clarity and the nurturing of one's faith. It serves as a reminder of the sustenance and refreshment that come from a deep and abiding relationship with God.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of fishpools in the Bible can also be seen as a reflection of God's provision and care for His people. Just as fishpools provided nourishment and economic stability, God's creation and His blessings sustain and enrich the lives of believers. The imagery of water, often associated with life and renewal in Scripture, further emphasizes the sustaining power of God's presence and the abundance of His grace.

In summary, fishpools in the biblical context are more than just physical bodies of water; they are rich in symbolic meaning, reflecting the beauty, provision, and spiritual insight that are central to the life of faith.(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). FISHPOOLS

fish'-pools:

This is a mistranslation. The Hebrew berekhoth (Songs 7:4) simply means "pools" (Revised Version); "fish" is quite unwarrantably introduced in the King James Version. In Isaiah 19:10, again, instead of "all that make sluices and ponds for fish" (the King James Version), we should certainly read, with the Revised Version (British and American), "All they that work for hire shall be grieved in soul."

Fishpools (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. FISHPOOLS. fish'-pools: This is a
mistranslation. ... Multi-Version Concordance Fishpools (1 Occurrence). ...
/f/fishpools.htm - 7k

Fishnets (2 Occurrences)

/f/fishnets.htm - 7k

Fishhook (1 Occurrence)
... to this instrument for fishing (Isaiah 19:8 Job 41:2). The ancient Egyptian noblemen
used to amuse themselves by fishing from their private fishpools with hook ...
/f/fishhook.htm - 7k

Fish-pools (1 Occurrence)
Fish-pools. Fishpools, Fish-pools. Fish's . Easton's Bible Dictionary (Cant. ...
(WBS). Fishpools, Fish-pools. Fish's . Reference Bible.
/f/fish-pools.htm - 7k

Pool (25 Occurrences)
... 20:20); the pool of Samaria (1 Kings 22:38); the king's pool (Nehemiah 2:14); the
pool of Siloah (Nehemiah 3:15; Ecclesiastes 2:6); the fishpools of Heshbon ...
/p/pool.htm - 40k

Heshbon (37 Occurrences)
... There are reservoirs in this district, which are probably the "fishpools" referred
to in Cant. 7:4. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. HESHBON. ...
/h/heshbon.htm - 22k

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