Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionSiloam, a significant site in biblical history, is a pool located in Jerusalem. It holds considerable importance in both the Old and New Testaments, serving as a place of healing and a symbol of divine intervention. The Pool of Siloam is mentioned in various contexts, highlighting its role in Jewish religious practices and its connection to Jesus' miracles. Historical and Biblical Context The Pool of Siloam is situated in the ancient City of David, near the southern slope of Jerusalem. It was originally constructed during the reign of King Hezekiah in the 8th century BC. Hezekiah, anticipating an Assyrian siege, built a tunnel to channel water from the Gihon Spring to the pool, ensuring a secure water supply for the city (2 Kings 20:20; 2 Chronicles 32:30). This engineering feat is a testament to the strategic and practical importance of Siloam in ancient Jerusalem. Old Testament References While the Pool of Siloam itself is not explicitly named in the Old Testament, its water source, the Gihon Spring, is mentioned. The tunnel and pool are implied in the accounts of Hezekiah's preparations for the Assyrian threat. The pool's existence and function as a water reservoir are crucial for understanding the historical context of Jerusalem's defenses and daily life. New Testament Significance The Pool of Siloam gains prominence in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospel of John. It is the site of one of Jesus' miracles, where He heals a man born blind. In John 9:1-7 , Jesus encounters the blind man and, after making mud with His saliva, instructs him to wash in the Pool of Siloam. The man obeys and receives his sight, demonstrating Jesus' power and authority. The passage reads: "As He was passing by, He saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked Him, 'Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?' Jesus answered, 'Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God would be displayed in him. While it is daytime, we must do the works of Him who sent Me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.' When He had said this, He spat on the ground, made some mud, and applied it to the man’s eyes. Then He told him, 'Go, wash in the Pool of Siloam' (which means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came back seeing." This miracle not only underscores Jesus' compassion and divine mission but also serves as a metaphor for spiritual enlightenment and the transformative power of faith. Archaeological Discoveries In recent years, archaeological excavations have uncovered parts of the Pool of Siloam, confirming its historical existence and providing insights into its structure and use. These findings align with biblical descriptions and enhance our understanding of the pool's role in ancient Jerusalem. Theological Implications The Pool of Siloam holds theological significance as a place of healing and divine encounter. It symbolizes the intersection of physical and spiritual restoration, illustrating the broader biblical theme of God's redemptive work through Christ. The miracle at Siloam highlights the importance of obedience and faith in experiencing God's power and grace. Conclusion The Pool of Siloam remains a vital part of biblical history and theology, reflecting the enduring legacy of Jerusalem as a city of spiritual significance. Its role in the narrative of Jesus' ministry continues to inspire and challenge believers to seek the light of Christ in their own lives. Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 3:15But the gate of the fountain repaired Shallun the son of Colhozeh, the ruler of part of Mizpah; he built it, and covered it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and the wall of the pool of Siloah by the king's garden, and to the stairs that go down from the city of David. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 8:6 Greek 4611. Siloam -- Siloam, a pool in Jer. ... Siloam. Of Hebrew origin (Shiloach); Siloam (ie Shiloach), a pool of Jerusalem -- Siloam. see HEBREW Shiloach. (siloam) -- 3 Occurrences. 4610, 4611. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4611.htm - 6k Library Gihon, the Same with the Fountain of Siloam. Jesus and the Blind Man. In the Last, the Great Day of the Feast' A Miracle in Jerusalem. Jesus Discussed in Jerusalem. In Jerusalem when Herod Reigned The Description of Jerusalem. The Girdle of the City. Nehemiah 3 Some Other Memorable Places of the City. Liii. Repentance Enjoined. Parable of the Barren Fig-Tree. Resources What was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is retribution theology? | GotQuestions.org How does archaeology support the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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