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Book of 1 Kings - Chapter 18 - Verse 35

18:35
And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water.

Meaning

When the water ran around the altar and filled the trench, it symbolized the completeness and sufficiency of the sacrifice being made. In the context of this verse from the Book of Kings, the prophet Elijah was demonstrating the power and glory of God to the people of Israel. By saturating the altar with water before calling on God to consume the sacrifice with fire, Elijah was showing that even though the offering was drenched and seemingly impossible to burn, God's power was greater than any human limitation. This act of faith and obedience was a powerful sign to the people that God was the one true God, able to work miracles and demonstrate His glory. This verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness, power, and ability to work beyond what we can see or understand.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of the verse "And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water" from 1 Kings 18:35 carries significant symbolism and meaning. Water is commonly associated with purification, cleansing, and renewal in the Bible. In this context, the abundance of water poured around the altar by the prophet Elijah signifies a powerful act of purification and preparation for the miraculous fire that would soon consume the altar. The act of filling the trench with water also serves to demonstrate God's power and sovereignty, as He is able to overcome any obstacle or challenge. Additionally, the presence of water highlights the importance of the spiritual cleansing and preparation required for encountering God's presence and experiencing His miraculous works. This verse showcases the prophetic symbolism and deep spiritual significance found throughout the Bible, inviting readers to reflect on the transformative power of God's presence and the necessity of spiritual readiness in approaching Him.

American Standard Version

And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water.
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