Jordan River
Overview
- Type: River
- Testament: Both
- Modern Location: Runs from the region of Galilee south to the Dead Sea
Biblical Significance
The Jordan is a boundary-crossing place in Scripture: Israel crosses into Canaan, Elijah and Elisha cross it, Naaman is healed in it, and Jesus Christ is baptized there.
Key Events
- Crossing the Jordan — Israel enters the land on dry ground
- Eastern Tribes Return — Boundary at the heart of the altar controversy
- Elijah Taken to Heaven — Elijah and Elisha cross before the ascent
- Naaman Healed — Naaman is cleansed here
Key People Associated
- Joshua (Son of Nun) — Leads Israel across
- Elijah — Parts the waters with his mantle
- Elisha — Returns across the river
- Naaman — Healed after washing
- John the Baptist — Baptizes in the Jordan in the New Testament
- Jesus Christ — Baptized in the Jordan
Important Verses
“The waters which came down from above stood and rose up upon an heap…” — Joshua 3:16
Cross-References
Notes
The Jordan often marks transition from promise toward possession, repentance, or public mission.