4278 spring of water

Springs of water were important to the life of Israel, providing fresh water for the people. Both God and the gospel are often compared to springs of living water, on account of their life-bringing and refreshing qualities.

The symbolic importance of springs of water to Israel

Living water as a sign of hope and prosperity Zec 14:8 See also Isa 12:3; Isa 49:10; Jer 31:9

Living water as a source of fertility Jer 17:8 See also Ps 1:3

Living water as a sign of God’s presence and power Ex 17:1-7; Nu 20:1-11

God as a spring of water

Jer 2:13 See also Jer 17:13

The gospel as a spring of water

Jn 4:13-14 See also Ps 42:2; Isa 55:1; Jn 7:37; Rev 21:6; Rev 22:17

Other biblical uses of the image of a spring

Pr 25:26 spoiling what is good; Jas 3:9-11 the tongue compared to a spring; 2Pe 2:17 a dry spring as a symbol of sterility

See also