Abanah
LocationsGeographical Setting
The Abanah is a river in ancient Syria, identified with the modern Barada River, which flows through Damascus.
What is the meaning of Abanah in the Bible?
The Abanah is a river mentioned in 2 Kings 5:12, identified with the Chrysorrhoas of the Greeks and the modern Nahr Barada, which rises in the Anti-Lebanon mountains and flows toward Damascus.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the Abanah as the Barada River clarifies the geographical context of Naaman's healing, highlighting the distinct water sources available in Damascus compared to those in Israel.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Abanah (located near modern Damascus, Syria) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Abanah in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Abanah clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
2 Kings 5:12
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Abanah." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/abanah/