Water-vessels in biblical times were essential household items, serving a variety of purposes from daily domestic use to religious rituals. These vessels are frequently mentioned throughout the Scriptures, reflecting their importance in the daily life and spiritual practices of the people of Israel.

Types and Uses

1. Jars and Pitchers: One of the most common types of water-vessels mentioned in the Bible is the jar or pitcher. These were typically made of clay or pottery and used for drawing and storing water. In Genesis 24:14, Rebekah is described as carrying a water jar on her shoulder, a common practice for women of that time. Similarly, in John 4:7, the Samaritan woman comes to draw water with her jar, highlighting the continued use of such vessels in New Testament times.

2. Cisterns: Cisterns were large, often underground, storage containers used to collect rainwater. They are mentioned in several passages, such as Jeremiah 2:13, where God laments that His people have forsaken Him, "the spring of living water," and have instead dug "broken cisterns that cannot hold water." This metaphor underscores the spiritual significance of water and its vessels, symbolizing sustenance and life.

3. Basins and Bowls: Used in religious rituals, basins and bowls held water for purification purposes. In Exodus 30:18-21, God instructs Moses to make a bronze basin for washing, placed between the Tent of Meeting and the altar. The priests were required to wash their hands and feet in it before ministering, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and purity in worship.

4. Stone Water Jars: In John 2:6, during the wedding at Cana, Jesus performs His first miracle by turning water into wine. The passage notes that there were "six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from twenty to thirty gallons." These large stone jars were used for ritual purification, illustrating the Jewish customs of the time.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

Water-vessels in the Bible often carry deeper symbolic meanings. Water itself is a powerful symbol of life, purification, and divine provision. In Isaiah 12:3, the prophet declares, "With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation," using the imagery of drawing water to convey the joy and sustenance found in God's salvation.

Moreover, the act of pouring water from a vessel can symbolize the outpouring of God's blessings or Spirit. In Joel 2:28, God promises, "And afterward, I will pour out My Spirit on all people," using the imagery of pouring to describe the abundance and generosity of His Spirit.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, water-vessels were not only practical but also held cultural significance. They were often crafted with care and could be ornately decorated, reflecting the artistry and resources of the community. The materials used, such as clay, stone, or metal, varied depending on the region and the intended use of the vessel.

The role of women in fetching and managing water is frequently highlighted in biblical narratives, indicating the central role of water-vessels in daily life. This task was essential for the survival and well-being of the household, underscoring the value placed on these vessels.

In summary, water-vessels in the Bible are more than mere containers; they are integral to the narrative of God's interaction with His people, symbolizing life, purity, and divine provision. Their presence in both mundane and sacred contexts highlights their multifaceted role in the biblical world.

Petra
... of the water. Farther downstream the women were bathing their babies and
polishing their brass water-vessels. Trees met overhead ...
/.../wilson-carmichael/things as they are/chapter xii petra.htm

The Call Intensified
... But we could not go to them, and they could not come to us. There were only two
narrow rooms between, but the second of the two had brass water-vessels in it. ...
/.../wilson-carmichael/things as they are/chapter xviii the call intensified.htm

The Elf
... at present, however, spring from a rooted aversion to her share in the family housework
(ten minutes' rubbing up of brass water-vessels); an appetite for slate ...
/.../wilson-carmichael/things as they are/chapter xx the elf.htm

Translated from the Greek.
... And perhaps on this account the water-vessels containing two or three firkins
a-piece are said to lie for the purification of the Jews, as we read in the ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/translated from the greek.htm

That the Scriptures are Divinely Inspired.
... is indicated in the Gospels, where there are said to be placed, according to the
manner of purification among the Jews, six water-vessels, containing two or ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/chapter i that the scriptures are.htm

Water-vessels (2 Occurrences)
Water-vessels. Water-vessel, Water-vessels. Waterways .
Multi-Version Concordance Water-vessels (2 Occurrences). John ...
/w/water-vessels.htm - 6k

Waterways (5 Occurrences)

/w/waterways.htm - 8k

Water-vessel (14 Occurrences)
Water-vessel. Water-town, Water-vessel. Water-vessels . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(BBE). Water-town, Water-vessel. Water-vessels . Reference Bible.
/w/water-vessel.htm - 10k

Holding (62 Occurrences)
... John 2:6 Now there were standing there six stone water-vessels, according to the
purification of the Jews, holding two or three measures each. ...
/h/holding.htm - 27k

Measures (50 Occurrences)
... John 2:6 Now there were standing there six stone water-vessels, according to the
purification of the Jews, holding two or three measures each. (DBY YLT). ...
/m/measures.htm - 35k

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