Topical Bible: Brooks: Kidron

◄ Brooks: Kidron ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Brook Kidron, also known as the Kidron Valley, is a significant geographical and historical feature in the biblical narrative. It is a valley located to the east of Jerusalem, separating the city from the Mount of Olives. The Kidron Valley is mentioned numerous times throughout the Bible, serving as a backdrop for various events and symbolizing themes of judgment, cleansing, and separation.

Biblical References and Significance

1. David's Flight from Absalom: One of the earliest mentions of the Brook Kidron is in the context of King David's flight from his son Absalom. In 2 Samuel 15:23, it is recorded, "Everyone in the countryside was weeping loudly as all the people passed by. The king also crossed the Kidron Valley, and all the people moved on toward the wilderness." This passage highlights the Kidron as a place of sorrow and transition during a time of personal and national crisis for David.

2. King Asa's Reforms: The Brook Kidron is also associated with religious reforms. In 1 Kings 15:13, it is noted that King Asa removed his grandmother Maacah from her position as queen mother because she had made an obscene image for Asherah. Asa cut down the image and burned it by the Kidron Valley, signifying the removal of idolatry from the land.

3. Hezekiah and Josiah's Reforms: Similarly, King Hezekiah and King Josiah used the Kidron Valley as a site for purging idolatry. In 2 Chronicles 29:16, during Hezekiah's reign, the priests carried the unclean things found in the temple to the Kidron Valley. Josiah, in his reforms, also defiled the high places and burned the Asherah poles in the Kidron Valley (2 Kings 23:4, 6).

4. Jesus' Ministry: The Brook Kidron holds New Testament significance as well. In John 18:1, it is recorded, "When Jesus had spoken these words, He went out with His disciples across the Kidron Valley, where there was a garden, into which He and His disciples entered." This passage marks the beginning of Jesus' Passion, as He crosses the Kidron to enter the Garden of Gethsemane, a place of prayer and eventual betrayal.

Symbolism and Themes

The Brook Kidron serves as a powerful symbol in the biblical narrative. It represents a boundary between the sacred city of Jerusalem and the wilderness, often associated with judgment and cleansing. The acts of burning idols and disposing of unclean items in the Kidron Valley underscore its role as a place of purification and renewal. Furthermore, the crossing of the Kidron by Jesus before His crucifixion adds a layer of spiritual significance, as it marks the transition from His public ministry to His sacrificial role as the Lamb of God.

Geographical Context

The Kidron Valley runs north to south, beginning near the Temple Mount in Jerusalem and extending towards the Dead Sea. Its proximity to key biblical sites, such as the Mount of Olives and the Garden of Gethsemane, enhances its importance in the biblical landscape. The valley's seasonal brook, which flows during the rainy season, further emphasizes the themes of life, death, and renewal present in the biblical accounts.

In summary, the Brook Kidron is a multifaceted symbol within the Bible, representing themes of judgment, cleansing, and transition. Its geographical and historical significance is woven into the fabric of both the Old and New Testaments, marking it as a place of profound spiritual and historical importance.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Samuel 15:23
And all the country wept with a loud voice, and all the people passed over: the king also himself passed over the brook Kidron, and all the people passed over, toward the way of the wilderness.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 15:13
And also Maachah his mother, even her he removed from being queen, because she had made an idol in a grove; and Asa destroyed her idol, and burnt it by the brook Kidron.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

John 18:1
When Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which he entered, and his disciples.
Torrey's Topical Textbook