probably from πήγνυμι (through the idea of gushing plumply); a fount (literally or figuratively), i.e. source or supply (of water, blood, enjoyment) (not necessarily the original spring):--fountain, well.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pēgḗ**, represented by `{{G4077}}`, denotes a **fount**, **source**, or **supply**. It appears 12 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible. While it can refer to a literal well or spring, it is often used figuratively to represent the source of things like blood, life, and enjoyment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4077}}` is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. It describes the physical location of Jacob's **well** where Jesus rested [[John 4:6]]. It is also used to describe the "fountains of waters" as a part of God's creation [[Revelation 14:7]] and as a target of divine judgment ([[Revelation 8:10]], [[Revelation 16:4]]). Metaphorically, it refers to the "fountain of her blood" being dried up for the woman who was healed [[Mark 5:29]]. In a stark warning, false teachers are called "**wells** without water" [[2 Peter 2:17]], highlighting their emptiness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of a source or supply:
* `{{G5204}}` **hýdōr** (water): This is frequently paired with `{{G4077}}` to describe a "**fountain** of **water**" [[Revelation 21:6]]. This term for **water** is used both literally and figuratively throughout scripture.
* `{{G129}}` **haîma** (blood): This word is used to describe the source of a woman's ailment as a "**fountain** of her **blood**" [[Mark 5:29]], illustrating that `{{G4077}}` can be a source of something other than water.
* `{{G2222}}` **zōḗ** (life): The most profound use of `{{G4077}}` is its connection to the source of eternal **life**, as in the "fountain of the water of **life**" [[Revelation 21:6]].
* `{{G1372}}` **dipsáō** (to thirst): The promise of a drink from the fountain of life is offered specifically to one who is **athirst** [[Revelation 21:6]], connecting the spiritual source to the satisfaction of a deep need.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4077}}` is significant, particularly in its figurative applications.
* **Source of Eternal Life:** Jesus contrasts a physical well with a spiritual one, offering a **well** `{{G4077}}` of water that springs up into everlasting **life** `{{G2222}}`, promising that those who drink from it will never **thirst** `{{G1372}}` again [[John 4:14]].
* **Divine Provision:** In Revelation, the redeemed are led by the Lamb `{{G721}}` to "living **fountains** of waters" [[Revelation 7:17]], symbolizing God's ultimate provision and care. This act is directly followed by God wiping away all **tears** `{{G1144}}` from their eyes.
* **Nature and Consistency:** James uses a **fountain** `{{G4077}}` to teach a lesson on consistency, arguing that a single source cannot produce both **sweet** `{{G1099}}` and **bitter** `{{G4089}}` water [[James 3:11]]. This illustrates a fundamental principle about the nature of good and evil.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4077}}` moves from the simple image of a well to a powerful symbol of origin and sustenance. It represents a source, whether of physical water, a flow of blood, or the eternal life offered by God. The concept of a fountain serves to illustrate divine judgment, the hypocrisy of false teachers, and the ultimate, satisfying provision that is found only in God.
TRV