Bible Dictionary
Bucket
A bucket was a vessel used to draw water, probably a waterskin with supports for lifting it from a well. The term is also used figuratively for abundant provision or a plentiful flow.
Definition
A bucket is a vessel used for drawing water. In the biblical setting it was probably a waterskin fitted with two cross-pieces at the top so that it could be lowered and lifted from a well.
Biblical Usage
The term occurs literally in Isaiah and figuratively in Numbers, where it represents a numerous issue or abundant provision.
Historical Background
The bucket differed from the ordinary waterskin, which had another name. The described waterskin construction corresponds to vessels still used for drawing water in Palestine.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
A vessel to draw water with (Isa. 40:15); used figuratively, probably, of a numerous issue (Num. 24:7).
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>buk'-et (deli): The word is found only in Isa 40:15; Nu 24:7, in the latter passage in a figurative use. The bucket was doubtless a waterskin with two cross-pieces at the top to fit it for use in drawing water, like those now in use in Palestine. The ordinary word for water-skin is a different one (no'dh).</p>