Topical Encyclopedia The River Jordan holds a significant place in biblical history and geography, serving as a prominent landmark in the narratives of the Old and New Testaments. It is a river of great importance, both spiritually and practically, for the people of Israel.Geographical and Historical Context The River Jordan flows from the slopes of Mount Hermon, through the Sea of Galilee, and down to the Dead Sea. It forms a natural boundary on the eastern side of the land of Canaan, often marking the edge of the Promised Land. The river's name, "Jordan," is derived from the Hebrew word "Yarden," meaning "to descend," aptly describing its downward course. Throughout biblical history, the Jordan River was a critical crossing point for the Israelites. It was here that the Israelites, led by Joshua, miraculously crossed on dry ground as they entered the Promised Land (Joshua 3:14-17). The river also served as the site of several significant events, including the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:13-17). Ferry Boats on the Jordan In addition to its spiritual significance, the Jordan River was a vital transportation route. Ferry boats were often used to cross the river, facilitating trade, travel, and communication between the regions on either side. The use of ferry boats is implied in various biblical passages, highlighting the practical necessity of crossing the river at certain points. One notable reference to the use of ferry boats is found in the account of King David's return to Jerusalem after the rebellion of Absalom. In 2 Samuel 19:18, it is mentioned that "they crossed the ford to bring over the king's household and to do what was good in his sight." This passage suggests the use of boats or rafts to transport people and goods across the river, underscoring the logistical challenges and solutions of the time. Cultural and Religious Significance The Jordan River's role as a crossing point is emblematic of transition and transformation in the biblical narrative. It symbolizes the movement from the wilderness into the Promised Land, from old life to new beginnings. This symbolism is further enriched by the baptism of Jesus, marking the commencement of His public ministry and the fulfillment of righteousness (Matthew 3:15). The river's significance extends beyond its physical presence, serving as a metaphor for spiritual renewal and divine intervention. The crossing of the Jordan is often seen as a precursor to entering into God's promises, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. Conclusion The River Jordan, with its historical crossings and spiritual symbolism, remains a powerful testament to God's providence and the unfolding of His divine plan. Its waters, once parted for the Israelites and later sanctified by the baptism of Jesus, continue to inspire faith and reflection for believers today. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 19:18And there went over a ferry boat to carry over the king's household, and to do what he thought good. And Shimei the son of Gera fell down before the king, as he was come over Jordan; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library How Joshua, the Commander of the Hebrews, Made War with The The Journey of the Three Holy Kings to Bethlehem The Iranian Conquest Resources Where was Jesus baptized? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Perea in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Shittim in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Jordan: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Jordan: Crossed by a Ferry Boat Jordan: Empties Into the Dead Sea Jordan: John the Baptist Immerses In Jordan: John the Baptist Immerses Jesus In Jordan: Naaman Washes In, for the Healing of his Leprosy Jordan: Plain of Israelites Camped In Jordan: Plain of Solomon's Foundry In Jordan: Swelling of, at Harvest Time Jordan: Swelling of, in the Early Spring Jordan: The Waters of, Miraculously Separated for the Passage of Elijah Jordan: The Waters of, Miraculously Separated for the Passage of Elisha Jordan: The Waters of, Miraculously Separated for the Passage of the Israelites the River Jordan: Despised by Foreigners the River Jordan: Eastern Boundary of Canaan the River Jordan: Empties Itself Into the Dead Sea the River Jordan: Ferry Boats often Used On the River Jordan: Fordable in some Places the River Jordan: Moses not Allowed to Cross the River Jordan: Often Overflowed the River Jordan: Overflowing of, Called the Swelling of Jordan the River Jordan: Passage of Israel Over in an Appointed Order the River Jordan: Passage of Israel Over: A Pledge That God Would Drive the Canaanites out of the River Jordan: Passage of Israel Over: Alluded To the River Jordan: Passage of Israel Over: Commemorated by a Pillar of Stones in Gilgal the River Jordan: Passage of Israel Over: Commemorated by a Pillar of Stones Raised in It the River Jordan: Passage of Israel Over: Preceded by Priests With the Ark the River Jordan: Passage of Israel Over: Promised the River Jordan: Passage of Israel Over: Successfully Effected the River Jordan: Remarkable Events Connected With: Baptism of Multitudes by John the Baptist the River Jordan: Remarkable Events Connected With: Baptism of Our Lord the River Jordan: Remarkable Events Connected With: Division of Its Waters to Let Israel Pass Over the River Jordan: Remarkable Events Connected With: Healing of Naaman the Leper the River Jordan: Remarkable Events Connected With: Its Division by Elijah the River Jordan: Remarkable Events Connected With: Its Division by Elisha the River Jordan: Remarkable Events Connected With: Return of Its Waters to Their Place the River Jordan: Remarkable Events Connected With: Slaughter of Moabites the River Jordan: Remarkable Events Connected With: Slaughter of the Ephraimites the River Jordan: The Jews had Great Pride In the River Jordan: The Plains of Afforded Clay for Moulding Brass the River Jordan: The Plains of Chosen by Lot for a Residence the River Jordan: The Plains of Exceeding Fertile the River Jordan: The Plains of Infested With Lions the River Jordan: The Plains of Thickly Wooded Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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