Gihon is one of the significant water sources mentioned in the Bible, associated with the city of Jerusalem. It is primarily known for its role in the water supply system of ancient Jerusalem and its connection to several key biblical events.

Biblical References and Historical Context

The Gihon Spring is one of the four rivers mentioned in the Genesis account of the Garden of Eden: "The name of the second river is Gihon; it winds through the whole land of Cush" (Genesis 2:13). While this reference is often considered symbolic or allegorical, the Gihon Spring in Jerusalem is a tangible and historical site.

In the context of Jerusalem, the Gihon Spring is located in the Kidron Valley, on the eastern side of the ancient City of David. It was the primary water source for the city and played a crucial role in its survival and prosperity. The spring's strategic importance is highlighted in several biblical narratives.

Hezekiah's Tunnel and the Pool of Siloam

One of the most notable engineering feats associated with the Gihon Spring is Hezekiah's Tunnel. During the reign of King Hezekiah, around 701 BC, the Assyrian threat prompted the construction of a tunnel to secure the city's water supply. The Bible records this in 2 Kings 20:20: "As for the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, along with all his might and how he made the pool and the tunnel to bring water into the city, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Judah?" .

The tunnel channeled water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam, located within the city walls, ensuring that the inhabitants had access to water even during sieges. This remarkable engineering achievement is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people of Judah under Hezekiah's leadership.

Solomon's Anointing

The Gihon Spring also holds significance in the anointing of King Solomon. In 1 Kings 1:33-34, King David instructs Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet to anoint Solomon as king at the Gihon Spring: "Take with you the servants of your lord, have my son Solomon mount my own mule, and take him down to Gihon. There Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet are to anoint him king over Israel. You are to blow the trumpet and declare, ‘Long live King Solomon!’" . This event underscores the spring's importance as a site of royal and religious significance.

Archaeological and Modern Significance

Archaeological excavations have confirmed the historical presence of the Gihon Spring and Hezekiah's Tunnel. The tunnel, measuring about 1,750 feet in length, is a popular site for tourists and scholars alike, providing insight into the ancient water systems of Jerusalem.

Today, the Gihon Spring continues to be a vital part of Jerusalem's historical landscape. It serves as a reminder of the city's rich biblical heritage and the divine providence that has sustained it through the ages.1 Kings 1:33,38,45
The king also said to them, Take with you the servants of your lord, and cause Solomon my son to ride on my own mule, and bring him down to Gihon:
Nave's Topical Index

Greek and Jew
... South was the open space of the great markets; near the southernmost ... Thickly scattered
like fallen patches of skies the pools of Siloam, Gihon, Shiloh, En ...
/.../miller/the city of delight/chapter viii greek and jew.htm

What happened at the Pool of Siloam? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Adonijah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is the location of the Garden of Eden? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus