Topical Encyclopedia The term "fishpool" is not directly mentioned in the Bible; however, the concept of bodies of water teeming with fish is prevalent throughout the Scriptures. These references often symbolize abundance, provision, and the sustaining power of God. The following passages highlight the significance of fish and bodies of water in biblical narratives and teachings.Creation and Provision In the account of creation, God establishes the waters as a habitat for fish, demonstrating His provision and the order of creation. Genesis 1:20-21 states, "And God said, 'Let the waters teem with living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth in the open expanse of the sky.' So God created the great sea creatures and every living thing that moves, with which the waters teemed, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good." Symbol of Abundance The presence of fish in bodies of water often symbolizes abundance and blessing. In Ezekiel's vision of the river flowing from the temple, the abundance of fish signifies the life-giving power of God's presence. Ezekiel 47:9 describes, "Wherever the river flows, there will be swarms of living creatures, and a great number of fish, because this water flows there and makes the salt water fresh; so wherever the river flows, everything will flourish." Miracles and Teachings of Jesus Fish and bodies of water play a significant role in the ministry of Jesus, illustrating His divine authority and provision. In the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand, Jesus uses fish to demonstrate God's provision. Matthew 14:17-21 recounts, "We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish," they answered. "Bring them here to Me," Jesus said. And He directed the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, He spoke a blessing. Then He broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. About five thousand men were fed, in addition to women and children." Symbol of Evangelism Fish and fishing are also used metaphorically to describe the mission of evangelism. Jesus calls His disciples to be "fishers of men," indicating the gathering of people into the kingdom of God. In Matthew 4:19 , Jesus says, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." Eschatological Imagery In eschatological contexts, the abundance of fish in bodies of water can symbolize the restoration and renewal of creation. The vision in Ezekiel 47, as previously mentioned, not only signifies abundance but also points to the ultimate restoration of God's creation, where life flourishes under His reign. Throughout the Scriptures, the imagery of fish and bodies of water serves as a powerful reminder of God's provision, the abundance of His blessings, and the call to participate in His redemptive work. Nave's Topical Index Songs 7:4Your neck is as a tower of ivory; your eyes like the fish pools in Heshbon, by the gate of Bathrabbim: your nose is as the tower of Lebanon which looks toward Damascus. Nave's Topical Index Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |