Topical Encyclopedia The Jabbok River, known in Hebrew as "Yabbok," is a significant watercourse mentioned in the Old Testament. It is a tributary of the Jordan River, flowing from east to west, and is located in the region of Gilead. The Jabbok holds historical and theological importance, particularly in the narratives of the patriarch Jacob and the territorial boundaries of the Israelite tribes.Biblical References and Significance 1. Jacob's Encounter with God: The Jabbok River is most famously associated with the account of Jacob wrestling with God. In Genesis 32:22-32, Jacob crosses the Jabbok with his family and possessions. It is here, at the ford of the Jabbok, that Jacob is left alone and wrestles with a mysterious man until daybreak. This encounter results in Jacob's name being changed to Israel, meaning "he struggles with God," and marks a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey. The Berean Standard Bible recounts this event: "So Jacob was left all alone, and there a man wrestled with him until daybreak" (Genesis 32:24). 2. Territorial Boundaries: The Jabbok River also serves as a geographical marker in the division of land among the Israelite tribes. It is mentioned as the boundary between the territories of the Ammonites and the Amorites. In Numbers 21:24, the Israelites, under Moses' leadership, defeat King Sihon of the Amorites and take possession of the land from the Arnon to the Jabbok: "Israel put him to the sword and took possession of his land from the Arnon to the Jabbok, but only as far as the border of the Ammonites, because it was fortified" (Numbers 21:24). 3. Historical Context: The Jabbok River is situated in the modern-day region of Jordan. Historically, it has been a critical water source and a natural boundary in the ancient Near East. The river's strategic location made it a site of numerous conflicts and interactions between different peoples and cultures. 4. Symbolism and Theology: The Jabbok River symbolizes transformation and divine encounter. Jacob's wrestling at the Jabbok is often interpreted as a metaphor for spiritual struggle and perseverance. It represents a turning point where human weakness meets divine strength, resulting in a new identity and purpose. Geographical and Cultural Context The Jabbok River, approximately 60 miles in length, originates in the mountains of Gilead and flows into the Jordan River. Its fertile banks have supported agriculture and settlement throughout history. The river's name, "Jabbok," is thought to mean "pouring out" or "emptying," reflecting its nature as a flowing watercourse. In biblical times, the Jabbok was a significant landmark for travelers and traders. Its crossing points were vital for communication and commerce between the eastern and western regions of the Jordan Valley. The river's presence in the biblical narrative underscores its role as a place of transition and encounter, both physically and spiritually. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 2:37Only to the land of the children of Ammon you came not, nor to any place of the river Jabbok, nor to the cities in the mountains, nor to whatever the LORD our God forbade us. Torrey's Topical Textbook Joshua 12:2 Library How Moses Conquered Sihon and Og Kings of the Amorites, and ... Chapter xxxiii Dilemma and Deliverance Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Sweet Uses of Adversity Order and Argument in Prayer The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt Resources What is the significance of Damascus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Sumerians? | GotQuestions.org Is Göbekli Tepe where the Garden of Eden was located? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Rivers of Canaan Abounded With Fish Rivers of People Flying from Judgments Rivers of the Abundance of Grace in Christ Rivers of the Gifts and Graces of the Holy Spirit Rivers: (Drying up of) of God's Judgments Rivers: (Fruitfulness of Trees Planted By) of the Permanent Rivers: (Overflowing of) God's Judgments Rivers: (Steady Course of) Peace of Saints Rivers: Banks of Covered With Flags Rivers: Banks of Frequented by Doves Rivers: Banks of Frequented by Wild Beasts Rivers: Banks of Frequently Overflowed Rivers: Banks of Peculiarly Fruitful Rivers: Banks of Places of Common Resort Rivers: Banks of Planted With Trees Rivers: Baptism often Performed In Rivers: Cities often Built Beside Rivers: Gardens often Made Beside Rivers: God's Power Over, Unlimited Rivers: Many, Fordable in some Places Rivers: Often the Boundaries of Kingdoms Rivers: Parted Into Many Streams Rivers: Useful For: Promoting Vegetation Rivers: Useful For: Supplying Drink to the People Related Terms |
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