### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bᵉrêkâh**, represented by `{{H1295}}`, refers to a **reservoir** or **(fish-) pool**. Derived from a root associated with kneeling to rest, it denotes a place for collecting water. It appears **17 times** across **15 unique verses**, primarily in historical and prophetic contexts related to water management and significant geographical locations.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical accounts, `{{H1295}}` often designates a specific, man-made body of water integral to city life. These pools were key engineering feats, such as the **pool** and `conduit {{H8585}}` that King `Hezekiah {{H2396}}` `made {{H6213}}` to supply Jerusalem with `water {{H4325}}` [[2 Kings 20:20]]. They also served as important landmarks where significant events unfolded. For example, the forces of `Joab {{H3097}}` and `Abner {{H74}}` `met {{H6298}}` at the **pool** of `Gibeon {{H1391}}` [[2 Samuel 2:13]], and David commanded that the murderers of `Ishbosheth {{H378}}` be `hanged up {{H8518}}` over the **pool** in `Hebron {{H2275}}` [[2 Samuel 4:12]]. The word is also used poetically, as in the description of a beloved's `eyes {{H5869}}` being like the **fishpools** in `Heshbon {{H2809}}` [[Song of Solomon 7:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the function and context of a `{{H1295}}` **pool**:
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): As the essential contents of a **pool**, **water** is frequently mentioned in connection with these reservoirs, whether they are being made for irrigation or civic supply ([[Ecclesiastes 2:6]], [[Nahum 2:8]]).
* `{{H8585}}` **tᵉʻâlâh** (conduit): This term for a channel or watercourse often appears alongside **pool**, highlighting the integrated water systems of ancient cities. A **conduit** fed water to or from a **pool** ([[Isaiah 7:3]], [[2 Kings 20:20]]).
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This word describes the construction of city infrastructure. During the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, Shallun not only repaired the Fountain Gate but also `built {{H1129}}` the `wall {{H2346}}` of the **pool** of `Siloah {{H7975}}` [[Nehemiah 3:15]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city): Pools were critical features of a **city**, providing a life-sustaining resource. Scripture locates them within or near major cities like Jerusalem, `Samaria {{H8111}}`, and `Hebron {{H2275}}` ([[1 Kings 22:38]], [[2 Samuel 4:12]]).
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1295}}` is primarily practical and historical, underscoring the importance of water in the arid landscape of the Bible.
* **Civic Provision and Security:** The construction and maintenance of pools were acts of great importance for kings and leaders. Hezekiah's work provided for his people during a siege [[2 Kings 20:20]], while Nehemiah's repairs were essential to restoring Jerusalem [[Nehemiah 3:15-16]]. Gathering the `waters {{H4325}}` of the lower **pool** was a strategic act of defense [[Isaiah 22:9]].
* **Sites of Judgment and Conflict:** Pools served as public backdrops for pivotal moments. The execution of Ishbosheth's murderers over the **pool** in Hebron was a public display of David's justice [[2 Samuel 4:12]]. The `chariot {{H7393}}` of a defeated king was `washed {{H7857}}` in the **pool** of Samaria, fulfilling a divine prophecy [[1 Kings 22:38]].
* **Metaphorical Language:** The term is used to create powerful imagery. The city of `Nineveh {{H5210}}` is depicted as a **pool** of water whose contents are rapidly draining away as its people `flee {{H5127}}` [[Nahum 2:8]]. In contrast, the comparison of eyes to **fishpools** conveys an image of depth and beauty [[Song of Solomon 7:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1295}}` is a term rooted in the essential need for water. It signifies more than just a body of water; it represents vital urban infrastructure, the sites of dramatic historical events, and a source for rich poetic and prophetic imagery. From the life-giving reservoirs built by kings to the locations of judgment and conflict, the **bᵉrêkâh** is a recurring and significant feature in the biblical landscape.
TRV