In biblical times, ravines were significant geographical features often mentioned in the context of travel, refuge, and divine encounters. A ravine is a deep, narrow gorge with steep sides, often carved by the flow of water. In the Bible, ravines are sometimes associated with isolation and desolation but also with divine provision and protection.

One notable mention of a ravine is in 1 Kings 17:3-4, where God instructs the prophet Elijah to hide in the Kerith Ravine, east of the Jordan, during a time of drought and famine. The Lord provides for Elijah by sending ravens to bring him bread and meat, and he drinks from the brook in the ravine: "Leave here, turn eastward, and hide yourself by the Brook Cherith, east of the Jordan. And you are to drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there" .

Ravines also symbolize the challenges and trials faced by God's people. In Psalm 23:4, the "valley of the shadow of death" can be likened to a deep ravine, representing a place of danger and fear, yet the psalmist expresses confidence in God's presence and protection.

Rocks

Rocks in the Bible often symbolize strength, stability, and refuge. They are frequently used metaphorically to describe God's enduring nature and His protection over His people. In Deuteronomy 32:4, God is referred to as "The Rock," emphasizing His perfection and justice: "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; all His ways are just. A God of faithfulness without injustice, righteous and upright is He" .

Rocks also serve as physical locations for significant biblical events. In Exodus 17:6, God instructs Moses to strike the rock at Horeb to provide water for the Israelites: "Behold, I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. And when you strike the rock, water will come out of it for the people to drink" . This event highlights God's provision and care for His people in the wilderness.

Additionally, rocks are associated with altars and memorials. In Joshua 4:20-24, Joshua sets up twelve stones taken from the Jordan River as a memorial to remind the Israelites of God's miraculous help in crossing the river.

Thornbushes

Thornbushes in the Bible often symbolize sin, suffering, and the consequences of disobedience. They are frequently mentioned in the context of curses and desolation. In Genesis 3:18, after the fall of man, God declares that the ground will produce thorns and thistles as a result of Adam's sin: "Both thorns and thistles it will yield for you, and you will eat the plants of the field" .

Thornbushes also appear in the narrative of Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush. In Exodus 3:2, the angel of the Lord appears to Moses in a flame of fire from within a bush, which was not consumed by the fire: "There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in a blazing fire from within a bush. Moses saw the bush ablaze with fire, but it was not consumed!" . This event marks a pivotal moment in Moses' life and the history of Israel, as God commissions Moses to lead His people out of Egypt.

In the New Testament, thorns are used metaphorically by Jesus in the Parable of the Sower. In Matthew 13:7, some seeds fall among thorns, which grow up and choke the plants, representing the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of wealth that hinder spiritual growth.

Water Holes

Water holes, or wells, are vital sources of life and sustenance in the arid regions of the biblical world. They are often sites of divine encounters, social interaction, and significant events in the lives of biblical figures.

In Genesis 21:19, God opens Hagar's eyes to see a well of water in the desert, providing for her and her son Ishmael: "Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. So she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink" . This act of divine provision underscores God's care for those in distress.

Wells also serve as meeting places and locations for important interactions. In Genesis 24, Abraham's servant finds Rebekah at a well, leading to her becoming Isaac's wife. Similarly, in John 4, Jesus meets the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well, where He reveals Himself as the source of living water, offering eternal life to those who believe in Him.

Water holes are symbolic of spiritual nourishment and refreshment, representing the life-giving presence of God in the lives of His people.