Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References: Zared, also spelled Zered, is a brook mentioned in the Old Testament. It is referenced in the context of the Israelites' wilderness journey as they approached the Promised Land. The primary biblical reference to Zared is found in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Deuteronomy. · Numbers 21:12 : "From there they set out and camped in the Valley of Zered." · Deuteronomy 2:13-14 : "Now get up and cross the Zered Valley. So we crossed the Zered Valley. The time we spent traveling from Kadesh-barnea until we crossed the Zered Valley was thirty-eight years, until the entire generation of fighting men had perished from the camp, as the LORD had sworn to them." Geographical Context: The Zared is identified as a brook or valley located in the southeastern region of the Dead Sea, marking a boundary in the wilderness journey of the Israelites. It is often associated with the modern Wadi al-Hasa, a significant watercourse in present-day Jordan. The crossing of the Zared marked a pivotal moment in the Israelites' journey, symbolizing the end of their prolonged wandering in the wilderness and the beginning of their approach to the land promised to their forefathers. Historical and Theological Significance: The crossing of the Zared Valley is significant in the narrative of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land. It represents a transition from the period of divine judgment, during which an entire generation perished due to their disobedience and lack of faith, to a new phase of hope and fulfillment of God's promises. The crossing signifies the faithfulness of God in leading His people despite their previous failures and His commitment to fulfilling His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Theologically, the Zared serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of faith and trust in God's promises. It underscores the theme of divine judgment and mercy, illustrating how God remains faithful to His covenant even when His people falter. The crossing of the Zared is a testament to God's enduring patience and His desire to bring His people into a place of blessing and rest. Cultural and Symbolic Aspects: In the broader biblical narrative, geographical locations such as the Zared often carry symbolic meanings. The Zared, as a boundary marker, symbolizes the transition from judgment to grace, from wandering to settlement, and from the old generation to the new. It serves as a physical and spiritual milestone in the journey of the Israelites, reflecting the broader themes of redemption and divine guidance that permeate the biblical text. The mention of the Zared in the context of the Israelites' journey also highlights the importance of remembering and recounting God's acts of deliverance and guidance. It serves as a historical marker for the Israelites, reminding them of their past struggles and God's provision, and encouraging them to remain faithful as they move forward into the promises of God. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary ZaredATS Bible Dictionary ZaredSee ZERED. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZAREDza'-red (zaredh (in pause)). Strong's Hebrew 2218. Zered -- a wadi East of the Dead Sea... Zared, Zered. From an unused root meaning to be exuberant in growth; lined with shrubbery; Zered, a brook East of the Dead Sea -- Zared, Zered. 2217, 2218. ... /hebrew/2218.htm - 6k Thesaurus Zared (1 Occurrence)... Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZARED. za'-red (zaredh (in pause)). ...Zared (1 Occurrence). Numbers 21:12 From thence they removed, and pitched in the valley of Zared. ... /z/zared.htm - 6k Zered (3 Occurrences) Zarephat (1 Occurrence) Zareathites (1 Occurrence) Pitched (101 Occurrences) Removed (294 Occurrences) Thence (152 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Zared (1 Occurrence)Numbers 21:12 Subtopics Related Terms |