Topical Bible: Syria: Abana and Pharpar Rivers of

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Abana and Pharpar rivers are mentioned in the context of the ancient region of Syria, specifically in the biblical narrative found in 2 Kings 5:12. These rivers are part of the account of Naaman, a commander of the army of the king of Aram (Syria), who was afflicted with leprosy. Naaman's account is a significant account that highlights themes of faith, obedience, and the power of God.

Biblical Reference:
In 2 Kings 5:12, Naaman expresses his disdain for the waters of Israel, questioning why he should wash in the Jordan River to be cleansed of his leprosy when the rivers of his homeland, the Abana and Pharpar, are superior. The Berean Standard Bible records his words: "Are not Abana and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Could I not wash in them and be cleansed?" This rhetorical question underscores Naaman's initial pride and skepticism before his eventual submission to the prophet Elisha's instructions, which leads to his healing.

Geographical and Historical Context:
The Abana and Pharpar rivers are associated with the city of Damascus, the capital of ancient Aram (modern-day Syria). Damascus is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and its location has historically been of strategic and economic importance. The rivers provided vital water sources for the city and its surrounding areas, contributing to the fertility and prosperity of the region.

The Abana River, often identified with the modern Barada River, flows from the Anti-Lebanon Mountains and passes through Damascus, providing essential irrigation for the area. The Pharpar River is generally associated with the Awaj River, which also originates in the Anti-Lebanon range and flows south of Damascus. Both rivers were crucial for sustaining agriculture and supporting the population of ancient Damascus.

Theological Significance:
The mention of the Abana and Pharpar rivers in the biblical narrative serves to contrast human wisdom and pride with divine instruction and humility. Naaman's initial preference for the rivers of his homeland over the Jordan River reflects a common human tendency to rely on familiar and seemingly superior resources rather than trusting in God's unconventional means. His eventual obedience to Elisha's command to wash in the Jordan River, despite his initial reluctance, demonstrates the necessity of faith and submission to God's will for experiencing His miraculous power.

The account of Naaman and the rivers of Damascus also illustrates the inclusivity of God's grace, extending beyond the borders of Israel to a foreign military leader. It foreshadows the broader biblical theme of God's concern for all nations and His desire to bring healing and salvation to all people who turn to Him in faith.

In summary, the Abana and Pharpar rivers, while geographically significant to the region of Damascus, hold deeper theological implications within the biblical narrative. They serve as a backdrop to a powerful account of healing and transformation, emphasizing the importance of faith, humility, and obedience to God's word.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 5:12
Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A Little Jewish Maid.
... by this foreign prophet, and was galloping back to Syria as quickly ... and often muddy,
when he had his own rivers of Abana the golden and Pharpar the sweet ...
/.../anonymous/children of the old testament/a little jewish maid.htm

Naaman
... He also carried a letter from the king of Syria to the ... and in mortification and
disappointment he exclaimed, "Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 20 naaman.htm

A Little Maid of Israel.
... There was war almost all the time between Israel and Syria. ... "Are not Abana and Pharpar,
rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? ...
/.../lathbury/childs story of the bible/chapter xxix a little maid.htm

Naaman the Syrian
... "Tell the prophet that Major-General Naaman of Syria has arrived ... I can fancy Naaman's
indignation as he asks, "Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/men of the bible/iii naaman the syrian.htm

The Christian Described
... Samuel made the elders of Bethlehem tremble; yea, when Elisha was sought for by
the king of Syria, he durst ... Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus ...
/.../bunyan/the riches of bunyan/xii the christian described.htm