Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Significance: Watersprings, often referred to as springs of water, are natural sources of water that emerge from the ground. In biblical times, watersprings were vital for sustaining life, agriculture, and livestock. They are frequently mentioned in the Bible as symbols of God's provision, blessing, and the sustenance of life. Biblical References: Watersprings are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible, often highlighting God's provision and the abundance of His creation. In the Berean Standard Bible, watersprings are depicted as sources of life and refreshment. 1. Genesis 16:7 · "Now the angel of the LORD found Hagar by a spring of water in the desert—the spring along the road to Shur." This passage illustrates God's care and provision for Hagar, providing her with water in a time of distress. 2. Psalm 104:10 · "He sends forth springs in the valleys; they flow between the mountains." This verse celebrates God's creation and His provision of water through springs, sustaining the earth and its creatures. 3. Isaiah 41:18 · "I will open rivers on the barren heights, and fountains in the middle of the valleys. I will turn the desert into a pool of water, and the dry land into springs." Here, God promises to transform desolate places into areas of abundance, using watersprings as a metaphor for His transformative power and blessing. 4. Proverbs 5:15-18 · "Drink water from your own cistern, and running water from your own well. Should your springs flow in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares? Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers. May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth." This passage uses the imagery of watersprings to convey the importance of faithfulness and the blessings of marital fidelity. Symbolism and Themes: Watersprings in the Bible often symbolize life, purity, and divine blessing. They are seen as a manifestation of God's care and provision for His people. The presence of a waterspring can signify a place of refuge and sustenance, as seen in the account of Hagar. Additionally, watersprings are used metaphorically to describe spiritual renewal and the outpouring of God's grace. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, watersprings represent the life-giving power of God. Just as physical springs provide water essential for life, God provides spiritual nourishment and sustenance to His people. The imagery of watersprings is also used to describe the Holy Spirit, who refreshes and renews believers, as seen in John 7:38-39, where Jesus speaks of "rivers of living water" flowing from within those who believe in Him. Cultural and Historical Context: In the arid regions of the Near East, watersprings were crucial for survival. Settlements often developed around these sources of water, and they were considered valuable assets. The presence of a spring could determine the location of a community and its ability to thrive. In biblical narratives, the discovery or provision of a waterspring often signifies divine intervention and favor. Conclusion: Watersprings in the Bible are more than just physical sources of water; they are rich in spiritual symbolism and theological meaning. They remind believers of God's continuous provision and the abundant life found in Him. Through the imagery of watersprings, the Bible communicates themes of renewal, blessing, and the sustaining power of God's presence. Concordance Watersprings (3 Occurrences)Revelation 7:17 Psalms 107:33 Psalms 107:35 Thesaurus Watersprings (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Watersprings (3 Occurrences). ... Psalms 107:33 He turneth rivers into a wilderness, and the watersprings into dry ground; (KJV JPS ASV). ... /w/watersprings.htm - 7k Water-springs (12 Occurrences) Water-spring (16 Occurrences) Dig (24 Occurrences) Pools (15 Occurrences) Guide (89 Occurrences) Front (327 Occurrences) Nineveh (23 Occurrences) Well (2882 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |