Topical Encyclopedia Abib is a term that appears in the Hebrew Bible, primarily referring to the first month of the ancient Hebrew calendar, which corresponds to the time of the barley harvest. This month is significant in the biblical narrative as it marks the beginning of the religious year for the Israelites and is associated with the Passover festival. The term "Abib" is often translated as "ear of grain" or "green ears," indicating the stage of the barley crop during this time.In the context of the Jordan River, the mention of Abib is significant due to the seasonal changes that occur during this month. The Jordan River, which flows from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea, experiences an annual overflow during the springtime, coinciding with the month of Abib. This overflow is a result of the melting snow from the mountains of Lebanon and the increased rainfall during the spring season, causing the river to swell beyond its banks. The Bible provides a notable account of the Jordan River's overflow during the time of Joshua. In Joshua 3:15 , it is recorded: "Now the Jordan overflows its banks throughout the harvest season." This passage highlights the natural phenomenon of the river's flooding during the harvest, which includes the month of Abib. The overflowing of the Jordan presented a significant obstacle for the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. However, the narrative continues to describe the miraculous event where the waters of the Jordan were halted, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground (Joshua 3:16-17). The overflow of the Jordan during Abib is not only a geographical and agricultural marker but also serves as a backdrop for divine intervention and fulfillment of God's promises to the Israelites. The timing of the river's overflow and the subsequent crossing by the Israelites underscore the themes of faith, deliverance, and the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Israelite people. In summary, Abib is a month of agricultural and religious significance in the Hebrew calendar, marked by the barley harvest and the celebration of Passover. The overflow of the Jordan River during this time is a natural occurrence that plays a pivotal role in the biblical narrative, symbolizing both a physical and spiritual transition for the Israelites as they enter the land promised to them by God. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 12:15These are they that went over Jordan in the first month, when it had overflowed all his banks; and they put to flight all them of the valleys, both toward the east, and toward the west. Nave's Topical Index Resources What is the structure of the Jewish calendar? | GotQuestions.orgAbib: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |