φρέαρ
phrear
well/abyss
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word φρέαρ (phrear) is a noun that conveys the idea of a well or an abyss. This word specifically emphasizes the depth and potential danger associated with such a source of water. In biblical contexts, φρέαρ often refers to a deep hole dug for water, which, depending on the situation, can be a reliable supply or a perilous abyss. The lexicon's short definition provides a clear indication of the word's meaning, while the 7 occurrences in the Bible show its limited but focused usage. This limited frequency helps to restrict the word's application, highlighting the importance of contextual interpretation in understanding its meaning. In instances where φρέαρ is used in the Bible, it adds a sense of uncertainty or danger, underscoring the significance of accessing and managing water in ancient times.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
7 total occurrences across the text
He answered them, “Which of you, if your son or an ox fell into a well, wouldn’t immediately pull him out on a Sabbath day?”
John 4:11The woman said to him, “Sir, you have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep. So where do you get that living water?
John 4:12Are you greater than our father, Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his children and his livestock?”
Revelation 9:1The fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star from the sky which had fallen to the earth. The key to the pit of the abyss was given to him.
Revelation 9:2He opened the pit of the abyss, and smoke went up out of the pit, like the smoke from a burning furnace. The sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke from the pit.
Revelation 9:2He opened the pit of the abyss, and smoke went up out of the pit, like the smoke from a burning furnace. The sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke from the pit.
Revelation 9:2He opened the pit of the abyss, and smoke went up out of the pit, like the smoke from a burning furnace. The sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke from the pit.