or מַעְיְנוֹ; (Psalm 114:8), or (feminine) מַעְיָנָה; from עַיִן (as a denominative in the sense of a spring); a fountain (also collectively), figuratively, a source (of satisfaction); fountain, spring, well.
Transliteration:maʻyân
Pronunciation:mah-yawn'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מַעְיָן (maʻyân, `{{H4599}}`) primarily denotes a "fountain," "spring," or "well." Its etymological root is found in עַיִן (ʻayin, `{{H5869}}`), which literally means "eye" but also carries the meaning of a "spring" or "fountain" of water, likely due to the visual resemblance of an overflowing spring to an eye. Thus, מַעְיָן functions as a denominative noun, specifically emphasizing the *place* or *source* from which water naturally emerges from the earth. Unlike a man-made well or cistern, a *maʻyân* signifies a natural, often continuous, outflow of fresh water. Its semantic range extends beyond the literal to encompass figurative meanings, representing a "source" of life, blessing, refreshment, or satisfaction. The variations מַעְיְנוֹ and the feminine מַעְיָנָה further underscore its flexibility in usage, all pointing to the essential concept of a flowing water source.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word מַעְיָן (`{{H4599}}`) appears numerous times throughout the Hebrew Bible, consistently in contexts that highlight its life-sustaining properties. In a literal sense, it describes the natural water sources crucial for survival in arid regions. For instance, [[Deuteronomy 8:7]] describes the promised land as "a land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths, flowing forth in valleys and hills," emphasizing its abundant provision. Similarly, [[Psalm 104:10]] speaks of God sending "springs into the valleys; they flow among the hills," illustrating divine care for creation.
Figuratively, *maʻyân* often symbolizes spiritual refreshment and divine wisdom. [[Proverbs 16:22]] declares, "Understanding is a fountain of life to one who has it," linking wisdom directly to a life-giving source. In prophetic literature, the term takes on eschatological significance, pointing to future restoration and spiritual renewal. [[Joel 3:18]] envisions a time when "a fountain shall come forth from the house of the Lord," watering the valley of Shittim, a clear image of God's abundant blessing in the messianic age. The lament of [[Jeremiah 2:13]] contrasts God, "the fountain of living waters," with the broken cisterns hewn by the people, underscoring Israel's spiritual apostasy and rejection of the true source of life. The variation מַעְיְנוֹ appears in [[Psalm 114:8]], where God transforms rock into a "fountain of water," a powerful reminder of His miraculous provision during the Exodus.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root noun עַיִן (ʻayin, `{{H5869}}`), from which מַעְיָן (`{{H4599}}`) is derived. While ʻayin can mean "eye," its secondary meaning of "spring" or "fountain" is directly foundational to *maʻyân*, which specifies a *place* of such outflow.
Other Hebrew words for water sources, while distinct, share conceptual space:
* בְּאֵר (be'er, `{{H875}}`): A well, often dug by human effort, though it can also refer to a natural spring.
* בּוֹר (bor, `{{H953}}`): A pit or cistern, typically man-made and used for collecting water, often associated with scarcity or imprisonment.
* מָקוֹר (maqor, `{{H4726}}`): A source or spring, which can be literal or highly figurative, referring to the origin of anything (e.g., "fountain of wisdom"). While *maqor* can be used for a water source, *maʻyân* more exclusively emphasizes the natural, flowing spring.
Thematically, *maʻyân* is intrinsically linked to concepts of:
* **Life and Sustenance:** Water is essential for life, and a spring represents a reliable, continuous source.
* **Divine Provision:** God is consistently portrayed as the ultimate provider of these life-giving waters.
* **Spiritual Refreshment:** Just as water quenches physical thirst, God and His wisdom satisfy spiritual longing.
* **Blessing and Fertility:** The presence of springs indicates a blessed and fruitful land.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of מַעְיָן (`{{H4599}}`) is profound and multifaceted. At its core, it serves as a powerful metaphor for God Himself as the ultimate source of all life and blessing. He is the "fountain of living waters" ([[Jeremiah 2:13]]), the inexhaustible wellspring from which all true life, wisdom, and satisfaction flow. This imagery highlights God's self-sufficiency, His active role as sustainer of creation, and His benevolent provision for His people.
In the context of the covenant, the presence of abundant springs in the Promised Land signifies divine favor and blessing ([[Deuteronomy 8:7]]). Conversely, the drying up of springs or the need to rely on broken cisterns symbolizes judgment, spiritual barrenness, and the tragic consequences of turning away from God.
The prophetic vision of a fountain flowing from the Temple ([[Joel 3:18]], [[Ezekiel 47:1-12]]) speaks to the eschatological hope of a restored relationship with God, where His presence brings forth abundant life and healing to the nations. This imagery finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament concept of Jesus as the source of "living water" ([[John 4:10-14]], [[John 7:37-38]]), satisfying the deepest spiritual thirst and granting eternal life. The wisdom literature, particularly Proverbs, elevates understanding and wisdom to the status of a "fountain of life" ([[Proverbs 16:22]]), emphasizing that true flourishing comes from aligning with divine truth. Thus, *maʻyân* embodies not just physical sustenance, but the spiritual vitality and blessedness that flow from an intimate relationship with the Creator.
### Summary
מַעְיָן (maʻyân, `{{H4599}}`) denotes a natural "fountain" or "spring," a continuous outflow of water derived from the root עַיִן (ʻayin, `{{H5869}}`), meaning "eye" or "spring." This term is used literally for vital water sources in arid lands, signifying divine provision and a blessed existence. Figuratively, it consistently represents a "source" of life, wisdom, and spiritual refreshment. Biblical occurrences highlight God as the ultimate "fountain of living waters," contrasting His inexhaustible provision with human-made, inadequate alternatives. Theologically, *maʻyân* underscores God's role as the benevolent sustainer of all life, both physical and spiritual, and serves as a powerful symbol of His abundant blessings, wisdom, and the eschatological hope of renewal. It vividly portrays the divine origin of all good things and the satisfaction found only in Him.
TRV