מַבּוּעַ

מַבּוּעַ

a fountain

Definition

The Hebrew noun מַבּוּעַ (mabbûwaʻ) refers to a natural spring or fountain, a source of flowing water emerging from the ground. It describes a reliable, life-giving water source, as seen in Isaiah 35:7 where it transforms the thirsty ground. In its three biblical occurrences, it consistently signifies a place of provision and refreshment, never a man-made well. In Ecclesiastes 12:6, it is used metaphorically for the cessation of life, where the 'golden bowl' or 'pitcher' is broken at the fountain, symbolizing death.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only three times, all in poetic or prophetic literature. It appears in contexts of divine provision and blessing (Isaiah 35:7; 49:10) and in a metaphorical depiction of mortality (Ecclesiastes 12:6). In Isaiah, it is part of visions of restoration and messianic care, where God provides springs in the desert for his people. There is no usage in historical narratives; it is exclusively a literary term for a significant water source.

Etymology

Derived from the root נָבַע (nāḇaʻ, H5042), meaning 'to flow, bubble up, pour out.' This root is also the source for the more common word for spring or fountain, מַעְיָן (maʻyān, H4599). מַבּוּעַ is a less frequent noun form emphasizing the place or source from which water emerges and flows forth.

Semantic Range

This word carries theological weight as a symbol of God's life-sustaining provision and salvation. In Isaiah 35:7 and 49:10, the 'spring' or 'fountain' is part of God's promise to reverse curse and suffering, providing for his people in the wilderness. It points to God as the ultimate source of life and refreshment. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of these passages, highlighting the contrast between human frailty (as in Ecclesiastes 12:6) and divine, covenantal faithfulness that brings forth life from barren places. In the arid landscape of ancient Israel, a natural spring (מַבּוּעַ) was a vital and prized source of fresh water, often determining settlement locations. It represented security, life, and blessing, in contrast to a dug well, which required human labor. This cultural reality underpins its biblical use as a powerful image of divine gift and sustenance. מַעְיָן (maʻyān, H4599) — The more common general term for a spring or fountain. עַיִן (ʻayin, H5869) — Can mean a spring, but more literally means 'eye' or 'surface appearance,' often used for a specific geographical spring. בְּאֵר (beʼēr, H875) — A well, typically a dug or constructed pit for water, not a natural outflow.

Word Details