Valley, Jordan
LocationsGeographical Setting
The Jordan Valley is a tectonic depression forming the lower section of the Great Rift Valley, extending from the Sea of Galilee in the north to the Dead Sea in the south.
What is the meaning of Valley, Jordan in the Bible?
The Jordan Valley is a geographical region situated within the Levant, characterized by its distinct topography as a rift valley floor. It serves as the primary drainage basin for the Jordan River, connecting the freshwater resources of the Sea of Galilee to the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea. Historically, the region's alluvial soils and water availability supported intensive agriculture and settlement patterns for various civilizations, including the Israelites, Moabites, and Romans.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the physical geography of the Jordan Valley clarifies the logistical challenges and strategic importance of biblical narratives, such as the Israelites' entry into the Promised Land and the movements of armies during the periods of the Judges and Kings, while also highlighting the ecological context of Jesus' baptism and ministry in the region.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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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.