### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâʼab**, represented by `{{H7579}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to bale up water** or to **draw(-er, water)**. It appears 19 times across 18 unique verses in the Bible. This term primarily describes the physical act of lifting water from a source, an essential and recurring activity in the narratives of scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H7579}}` is used in various contexts that highlight its practical and symbolic importance. It often depicts a routine and essential task, particularly for women, such as when Abraham's servant encounters them going out from the city to **draw** water [[Genesis 24:13]]. The term can also define a social status of servitude, as seen when the Gibeonites are made "hewers of wood and **drawers** of water" for the house of God [[Joshua 9:23]]. Beyond a daily chore, the act carries ceremonial weight when the Israelites **drew** water and poured it out before the LORD as a sign of national repentance [[1 Samuel 7:6]]. It can even represent an act of great valor, as when David's mighty men broke through enemy lines to **draw** water for him from the well of Bethlehem [[2 Samuel 23:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the act of drawing water:
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): As the substance being drawn, **water** is the inseparable object of the action of `{{H7579}}`. This connection is foundational, from Rebekah drawing **water** at the well [[Genesis 24:45]] to the prophetic promise to joyfully **draw water** from the wells of salvation [[Isaiah 12:3]].
* `{{H2404}}` **châṭab** (to hew wood): This word is frequently paired with `{{H7579}}` to describe manual labor. The phrase "hewers of wood and **drawers** of water" designates a role of servitude within the community [[Deuteronomy 29:11]].
* `{{H875}}` **bᵉʼêr** (well): This term defines the primary location where water is drawn. Many narratives involving `{{H7579}}` are set at a **well**, which served as a central gathering place in ancient life, as when Rebekah ran to the **well** to **draw** water for the camels [[Genesis 24:20]].
### Theological Significance
The act of drawing water, while practical, is imbued with significant theological meaning.
* **Receiving Divine Salvation:** The most prominent figurative use is in Isaiah, where drawing water is a metaphor for joyfully receiving from the "wells of salvation," transforming a daily chore into an image of spiritual fulfillment [[Isaiah 12:3]].
* **Act of Worship and Repentance:** The water drawn and poured out by Israel was part of a solemn ceremony of fasting and confessing sin before the LORD, indicating that the physical act could represent a spiritual posture of humility [[1 Samuel 7:6]].
* **Demonstration of Character:** In the narrative of Abraham's servant, Rebekah's offer to **draw** water for his camels demonstrates a generous and servant-hearted nature, marking her as the one chosen by the LORD [[Genesis 24:44]].
* **Symbol of Costly Sacrifice:** When David's men risk their lives to **draw** water, he refuses to drink it and instead pours it out to the LORD, equating the water with their lifeblood and making the act a sacred offering [[2 Samuel 23:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7579}}` is a word that transcends its simple, literal definition. It appears as a daily necessity, a mark of social status, and a profound symbolic act. From the physical labor assigned to the Gibeonites to the joyful reception of salvation in Isaiah's prophecy, the act of drawing water serves as a versatile illustration in the biblical text. It demonstrates how an everyday action can convey deep truths about service, sacrifice, worship, and the very nature of God's provision.
TRV