Meaning
The Jordan is the principal river associated with the land of Canaan, flowing through the Jordan Valley and forming part of the eastern boundary of the land of Israel.
Biblical Usage
The Jordan appears throughout Scripture in geographical, historical, and religious events. It served as a boundary and was crossed by individuals and groups at different times.
Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground when the priests carrying the ark stood in the river. Twelve stones were then taken from its midst as a memorial. The Jordan is also associated with the ministries of Elijah, Elisha, and John the Baptist, and with the baptism of Jesus.
Key References
- Genesis 13:10-11
- Numbers 34:15
- Joshua 3:14-17
- Joshua 4:1-24
- Judges 3:28
- 2 Kings 2:6-14
- 2 Kings 5:10-14
- Matthew 3:5-17
- Mark 1:5-9
- Luke 4:1
- John 1:28-34
Related Terms
- River
- Crossing
- Boundary
- Memorial
- Wilderness
- Canaan
- Israel
- Jericho
- Gilgal