What is…
Jacob's Well

Mentioned in John 4:5-6.

This is a site in Israel about which there is no dispute. It was dug by Jacob, and hence its name, in the “parcel of ground” which he purchased from the sons of Hamor (Genesis 33:19).

It still exists. It is at the entrance to the valley between Ebal and Gerizim, about 2 miles southeast of Shechem. It is about 9 feet in diameter and about 75 feet in depth, though in ancient times it was no doubt much deeper, probably twice as deep. The digging of such a well must have been a very laborious and costly undertaking.

Location of Jacob’s Well, in modern Nablus, Israel (West Bank)—satellite view
“Archaeology of Jacob’s Well at Shechem”
If there is one place where we can know for certain that Jesus was right there, it is at Jacob’s Well. How can we know? In the Gospel of John, chapter 4 provides key details needed to be able to trace the archaeology to anchor that well as the very place where Jesus offered the Samaritan woman “living water.”
Expedition Bible
Length: 14 minutes

More information

Article Version: January 24, 2025