lemma שִׁלֹּחַ extra dagesh, corrected to שִׁלֹחַ; or (in imitation of שֶׁלַח) שֶׁלַח; (Nehemiah 3:15), from שָׁלַח; rill; Shiloach, a fountain of Jerusalem; Shiloah, Siloah.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shilôach**, represented by `{{H7975}}`, refers to a **rill or fountain** in Jerusalem. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term specifically identifies a significant water source known as Shiloah or Siloah, playing a role in both the history and prophecy related to Jerusalem.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H7975}}` is presented in two distinct contexts. In [[Nehemiah 3:15]], it is mentioned as the "pool of Siloah" during the reconstruction of Jerusalem's walls under the leadership of Shallun. This passage identifies it as a key landmark near the king's garden and the city of David, highlighting its importance to the city's infrastructure. In contrast, [[Isaiah 8:6]] uses the location symbolically, speaking of the people who have refused "the waters of Shiloah that go softly" in favor of an alliance with "Rezin and Remaliah's son."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context surrounding Shiloah:
* `{{H1295}}` **bᵉrêkâh** (a reservoir; (fish-) pool): This word is used directly with `{{H7975}}` to describe the location as the "pool of Siloah" [[Nehemiah 3:15]]. It often refers to man-made reservoirs for water, as when Hezekiah "made a pool, and a conduit, and brought water into the city" [[2 Kings 20:20]].
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): This word is fundamental to the description in [[Isaiah 8:6]], which speaks of the "waters of Shiloah." It is a general term for water, often used symbolically for divine provision and life, as in the invitation, "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters" [[Isaiah 55:1]].
* `{{H1980}}` **hâlak** (to walk; go): This verb describes the character of Shiloah's waters as those that "go softly" [[Isaiah 8:6]]. Figuratively, the word is often used to describe a person's way of life or moral conduct, such as the blessed man "that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly" [[Psalms 1:1]].
* `{{H5869}}` **ʻayin** (an eye; a fountain): The base definition of `{{H7975}}` is a fountain, and this word appears in [[Nehemiah 3:15]] as "the gate of the fountain," linking the physical location of Shiloah to its function as a water source for the landscape.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7975}}` is derived from its symbolic use in prophecy.
* **Symbol of Gentle Provision:** The description of "the waters of Shiloah that go softly" [[Isaiah 8:6]] serves as a metaphor for a quiet, steady, and gentle form of divine help or governance that was being rejected by the people.
* **A Test of Allegiance:** The people's refusal of these waters in [[Isaiah 8:6]] is cast as a critical choice. They turn from the gentle flow of Shiloah to "rejoice" in human kings, illustrating a choice between trusting in God's subtle provision and relying on more conspicuous human power.
* **Landmark of Restoration:** Its inclusion in the rebuilding narrative in [[Nehemiah 3:15]] grounds its importance not just in metaphor but in the literal life and restoration of Jerusalem. Its repair was a vital step in re-establishing the city.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7975}}` is more than just a geographical name. While it literally refers to the Pool of Siloah, a crucial water source in Jerusalem, it is also used as a powerful symbol. It represents the choice between accepting God's quiet, steady provision and seeking strength from more imposing, but ultimately failing, human sources. The word illustrates how a physical landmark can become a focal point for profound theological lessons about faith, rejection, and restoration.
TRV