Topical Bible: the River Nile: Called: Sihor

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Topical Encyclopedia

The River Nile, referred to as "Sihor" in the Bible, is one of the most significant and historically rich rivers in the world. It is the longest river, flowing through northeastern Africa, and has been the lifeblood of Egypt since ancient times. The Nile is mentioned in various contexts within the Scriptures, highlighting its importance in biblical history and prophecy.

Biblical References:

1. Sihor as the Nile:
The term "Sihor" is used in the Bible to refer to the Nile River. In Jeremiah 2:18 , the prophet questions Israel's reliance on foreign powers, mentioning the waters of Sihor: "Now what have you gained by traveling along the road to Egypt to drink the waters of the Nile?" This rhetorical question underscores the futility of seeking alliances with Egypt, symbolized by the Nile's waters.

2. The Nile in Prophecy:
The Nile is also mentioned in the context of prophecy. In Isaiah 23:3 , the river is associated with commerce and trade: "On the great waters came the grain of the Shihor; the harvest of the Nile was the revenue of Tyre, and she became the marketplace of the nations." This passage highlights the economic significance of the Nile, as its fertile banks were crucial for agriculture and trade.

3. The Plagues of Egypt:
The Nile plays a central role in the narrative of the plagues of Egypt. In Exodus 7:20-21 , Moses and Aaron, following God's command, turn the waters of the Nile into blood: "Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded; in the presence of Pharaoh and his officials, he raised the staff and struck the water of the Nile, and all the water was turned to blood. The fish in the Nile died, and the river reeked so badly that the Egyptians could not drink its water." This miraculous event demonstrated God's power over the natural world and served as a judgment against the gods of Egypt.

4. Symbol of Fertility and Life:
The Nile is often seen as a symbol of fertility and life due to its annual flooding, which deposited rich silt along its banks, making the land exceptionally fertile. This natural phenomenon is alluded to in Genesis 41, where Pharaoh's dreams, interpreted by Joseph, predict seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. The Nile's cycles were integral to Egypt's agricultural success and survival.

5. Boundary and Border:
The Nile also served as a geographical boundary. In Joshua 13:3 , the river is mentioned as a border of the land promised to the Israelites: "from the Shihor east of Egypt to the border of Ekron on the north, all of it counted as Canaanite; the territory of the five Philistine rulers of Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron." This reference indicates the extent of the land that was to be conquered and settled by the Israelites.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The Nile River was central to the development of ancient Egyptian civilization. Its predictable flooding cycle allowed for the cultivation of crops, supporting a stable and prosperous society. The river was also a critical transportation route, facilitating trade and communication. In the biblical narrative, Egypt, with the Nile as its heart, often represents a place of refuge, temptation, and eventual bondage for the Israelites.

Theologically, the Nile's significance is multifaceted. It is a symbol of God's provision and judgment, a reminder of His sovereignty over creation, and a testament to His ability to use natural elements to fulfill His divine purposes. The river's mention in various biblical texts underscores its role as a backdrop for God's interactions with His people and the surrounding nations.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Joshua 13:3
From Sihor, which is before Egypt, even to the borders of Ekron northward, which is counted to the Canaanite: five lords of the Philistines; the Gazathites, and the Ashdothites, the Eshkalonites, the Gittites, and the Ekronites; also the Avites:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 2:18
And now what have you to do in the way of Egypt, to drink the waters of Sihor? or what have you to do in the way of Assyria, to drink the waters of the river?
Torrey's Topical Textbook