Topical Encyclopedia The "Waters of Jericho" refers to the water source near the ancient city of Jericho, which is notably mentioned in the context of a miracle performed by the prophet Elisha. Jericho, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, is located in the Jordan Valley, near the Jordan River. The city is historically significant in biblical narratives, including the famous account of the Israelites' conquest under Joshua (Joshua 6).Biblical Account: The primary biblical reference to the "Waters of Jericho" is found in 2 Kings 2:19-22. After Elijah's ascension to heaven, Elisha, his successor, performed a miracle to purify the waters of Jericho. The men of the city approached Elisha, expressing concern about the condition of their water supply: "The men of the city said to Elisha, 'Please note, our lord, that the city's location is good, as you can see, but the water is bad, and the land is unfruitful.' 'Bring me a new bowl,' he replied, 'and put some salt in it.' So they brought it to him, and Elisha went out to the spring, threw the salt into it, and said, 'This is what the LORD says: I have healed this water. No longer will it cause death or unfruitfulness.' And the waters have remained pure to this day, according to the word Elisha had spoken." (2 Kings 2:19-22) Significance: The miracle of the healing of the waters of Jericho is significant for several reasons: 1. Divine Intervention: The event underscores the power of God working through His prophet. The use of salt, a common preservative and purifying agent, symbolizes the divine intervention that brings life and fertility to the land. 2. Prophetic Authority: This miracle serves as an early demonstration of Elisha's prophetic authority, affirming his role as Elijah's successor. It reassures the people of Jericho and the surrounding regions of God's continued presence and care through His prophet. 3. Symbolism of Healing: The transformation of the water from harmful to life-giving is symbolic of spiritual renewal and restoration. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God bringing life and healing to His people. 4. Historical Context: Jericho's location and its water supply were crucial for the city's survival and prosperity. The healing of the waters would have had significant practical implications for agriculture and daily life, ensuring the city's continued habitation and growth. Cultural and Theological Insights: In the broader biblical narrative, water often symbolizes life, cleansing, and divine blessing. The healing of the waters of Jericho can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate healing and restoration brought by Christ, who offers "living water" to all who believe (John 4:10-14). The event also highlights the importance of faith and obedience to God's word, as demonstrated by the people of Jericho who sought Elisha's help and witnessed the miraculous transformation. The "Waters of Jericho" thus serve as a testament to God's power to transform and renew, both physically and spiritually, through His chosen instruments. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 16:1And the lot of the children of Joseph fell from Jordan by Jericho, to the water of Jericho on the east, to the wilderness that goes up from Jericho throughout mount Bethel, Nave's Topical Index Library Jericho; Or, the Waters Healed. 2Ki 2:19-22 The Healing of the Waters The Country of Jericho, and the Situation of the City. How Vespasian Upon Hearing of Some Commotions in Gall, Made Haste ... In Jericho and at Bethany - Jericho - a Guest with Zacch??us - the ... Crossing the River Jordan 'The Waters Saw Thee; they were Afraid' A Picture of Conversion. 2 Kings ii. 19-22. A Nation that was Born in a Day. The Last Journey to Jerusalem. Resources What is the significance of Jericho in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should we learn from the walls of Jericho falling down? | GotQuestions.org Why did Joshua curse Jericho in Joshua 6:26? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Besieged by Joshua for Seven Days Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Blind Men Healed At, by Jesus Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Called the City of Palm Trees Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Location of, Pleasant Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Rahab the Harlot Lived In Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Rebuilt by Hiel Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: The Kenites Lived At Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Zacchaeus Lived At Jericho: Inhabitants of, Taken Captive to Babylon, Return To, With Ezra and Nehemiah Jericho: Joshua Sees the "Captain of the Host" of the Lord Near Jericho: King of Moab Makes Conquest of, and Establishes his Capital At Jericho: Waters of Purified by Elisha Related Terms |
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