The brook Zared, also spelled Zered, is a significant geographical feature mentioned in the Old Testament. It is primarily noted in the context of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land. The brook serves as a landmark in the narrative of Israel's exodus and their subsequent travels through the desert.

Biblical References:

The brook Zared is mentioned in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Deuteronomy. In Numbers 21:12 , the text states, "From there they set out and camped in the Valley of Zered." This passage marks a stage in the Israelites' journey as they moved closer to the land of Canaan. The brook is situated in the region east of the Dead Sea, forming part of the boundary between Moab and Edom.

Deuteronomy 2:13-14 provides further context: "Now get up and cross the Zered Valley. So we crossed the Zered Valley. The time we spent traveling from Kadesh-barnea until we crossed the Zered Valley was thirty-eight years, until the entire generation of fighting men had perished from the camp, as the LORD had sworn to them." This passage highlights the brook as a significant milestone in the Israelites' journey, marking the end of their prolonged period of wandering due to their disobedience and lack of faith.

Historical and Geographical Context:

The brook Zared is identified with the modern Wadi al-Hasa, a seasonal river that flows into the southeastern part of the Dead Sea. This wadi is characterized by its deep valley and rugged terrain, typical of the region's arid landscape. The crossing of the Zared marked a transition for the Israelites, as they moved from the wilderness into territories that were more directly associated with the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs.

Theological Significance:

The crossing of the brook Zared holds theological importance as it symbolizes a turning point in the history of the Israelites. It represents the end of a generation that had been condemned to die in the wilderness due to their rebellion and lack of trust in God's promises. The new generation, under the leadership of Moses and later Joshua, was poised to enter the land that God had sworn to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

The brook Zared serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the consequences of disobedience. It underscores the importance of trust and obedience in the believer's journey, as well as the hope of entering into the promises of God through faith and perseverance.Numbers 21:12
From there they removed, and pitched in the valley of Zared.
Nave's Topical Index

Deuteronomy 2:13,14
Now rise up, said I, and get you over the brook Zered. And we went over the brook Zered.
Nave's Topical Index

2218. Zered -- a wadi East of the Dead Sea
... Zared, Zered. From an unused root meaning to be exuberant in growth; lined with
shrubbery; Zered, a brook East of the Dead Sea -- Zared, Zered. 2217, 2218. ...
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