Topical Bible: the River Jordan: Fordable in some Places

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Topical Encyclopedia

The River Jordan holds significant historical and theological importance within the biblical narrative. It is a prominent geographical feature in the land of Israel, serving as a natural boundary and a site of numerous biblical events. The river flows from the slopes of Mount Hermon, through the Sea of Galilee, and down to the Dead Sea. Its name, "Jordan," is derived from the Hebrew word "Yarden," meaning "to descend," aptly describing its downward course.

Biblical Significance

The River Jordan is mentioned frequently throughout the Bible, symbolizing transition, purification, and divine intervention. It is most famously known as the site where John the Baptist baptized Jesus, marking the beginning of His public ministry (Matthew 3:13-17). This event underscores the river's role as a place of spiritual renewal and transformation.

Fordable Locations

Despite its symbolic depth, the River Jordan is fordable in certain locations, which played a crucial role in the narratives of the Israelites. The ability to cross the river at specific points facilitated significant events in Israel's history. One of the most notable crossings occurred when the Israelites, led by Joshua, entered the Promised Land. In Joshua 3:15-17 , the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stepped into the Jordan, and the waters were miraculously halted, allowing the entire nation to cross on dry ground. This event is a testament to God's providence and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people.

Another instance of fording the Jordan is found in the account of Gideon. In Judges 7:24-25 , Gideon and his men pursued the Midianites across the Jordan, utilizing the fordable sections to gain a strategic advantage. This narrative highlights the river's role in military strategy and the deliverance of Israel from its enemies.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient times, fording a river was a common method of crossing, especially in regions where bridges were scarce. The Jordan's fordable areas were well-known and often used by travelers, traders, and armies. These crossings were vital for communication and commerce, linking various parts of the ancient Near East.

The river's fluctuating water levels, influenced by seasonal rains and snowmelt from Mount Hermon, affected its fordability. During the dry season, the river's flow would decrease, making it easier to cross. Conversely, during the rainy season, the river could swell, rendering some fords impassable.

Spiritual Symbolism

The act of crossing the Jordan River carries deep spiritual symbolism in the biblical narrative. It represents a passage from the old to the new, from wandering to settlement, and from bondage to freedom. The river serves as a metaphor for the believer's journey of faith, marking moments of decision, commitment, and divine encounter.

In 2 Kings 2:8 , the prophet Elijah struck the waters of the Jordan with his cloak, and they parted, allowing him and Elisha to cross. This miraculous event prefigures the power of God to make a way where there seems to be none, reinforcing the theme of divine intervention and guidance.

Conclusion

The River Jordan, with its fordable sections, is more than a geographical feature; it is a testament to God's interaction with His people throughout history. Its waters have witnessed acts of faith, deliverance, and transformation, making it a symbol of hope and renewal for believers across generations.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Joshua 2:7
And the men pursued after them the way to Jordan to the fords: and as soon as they which pursued after them were gone out, they shut the gate.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Judges 12:5,6
And the Gileadites took the passages of Jordan before the Ephraimites: and it was so, that when those Ephraimites which were escaped said, Let me go over; that the men of Gilead said to him, Are you an Ephraimite? If he said, No;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

How Joshua, the Commander of the Hebrews, Made War with The
... had entered the river first, it appeared fordable, the depth ... often happening that
one acre of some sort of ... that its length reached from the river Jordan to the ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 1 how joshua the.htm

How John Tyrannized Over the Rest; and what Mischiefs the Zealots ...
... slew all that he overtook, as far as Jordan; and when he had driven the whole multitude
to the river-side, where ... lately by rains, and was not fordable,] he put ...
/.../chapter 7 how john tyrannized.htm

The Vanguard and Rereward of the Church
... land; Jehovah goes before them and the Jordan is driven ... there rivers but they are
bridged or fordable; there are ... sweet song when we come to the river of death ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 5 1859/the vanguard and rereward of.htm

The Water of Life;
... thou mayest swim, it is deep, yet fordable at first ... throne, therefore it is that
such a river, with its ... to be far higher than ever was the swellings of Jordan. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the water of life.htm