Topical Encyclopedia
The River Jordan holds a significant place in biblical history, serving as the backdrop for numerous pivotal events. Among these is the miraculous healing of Naaman the leper, a account that underscores themes of faith, obedience, and divine power.
Context and BackgroundNaaman was a commander of the army of the king of Aram, a man of great stature and honor, but he suffered from leprosy, a debilitating and socially isolating disease. The account of his healing is found in
2 Kings 5:1-14. Despite his high status, Naaman's condition rendered him desperate for a cure, leading him to seek help beyond the borders of his own land.
The Role of the River JordanThe River Jordan becomes central to Naaman's account when a young Israelite girl, a captive servant in Naaman's household, suggests that he seek healing from the prophet Elisha in Samaria. Naaman, acting on this advice, travels to Israel with gifts and a letter from the king of Aram to the king of Israel, seeking a cure.
Upon reaching Elisha, Naaman is instructed by the prophet's messenger to wash himself seven times in the Jordan River to be cleansed of his leprosy. Initially, Naaman reacts with anger and disbelief. He questions why he should wash in the Jordan, a river he perceives as inferior to the rivers of Damascus, such as Abana and Pharpar. His pride and expectations of a grandiose healing ceremony nearly prevent him from receiving the miracle he seeks.
The Act of Obedience and FaithNaaman's servants, however, persuade him to follow the prophet's simple instructions. They reason with him, saying, "My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more then, when he tells you, 'Wash and be cleansed'?" (
2 Kings 5:13). Convicted by their words, Naaman humbles himself and obeys the prophet's command.
As Naaman dips himself in the Jordan River seven times, his flesh is miraculously restored, becoming like that of a young boy. This act of obedience and faith results in his complete healing, demonstrating the power of God working through the prophet Elisha and the waters of the Jordan.
SignificanceThe healing of Naaman in the Jordan River is a profound testament to the necessity of humility and faith in God's instructions, no matter how simple or seemingly insignificant they may appear. It highlights the Jordan River as a place of divine encounter and transformation, reinforcing its symbolic role in the narrative of God's redemptive work throughout Scripture.
This event also foreshadows the New Testament theme of cleansing and renewal, as seen in the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River, further solidifying the river's place as a site of spiritual significance and divine intervention.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
2 Kings 5:10,14And Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall come again to you, and you shall be clean.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Resources
What is the importance of the Dead Sea in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy was the altar in Joshua 22:10 34 such a big deal? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Rahab in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgJordan: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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