Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Kison, also known as the Kishon River, is a significant geographical feature in biblical history, particularly in the narratives of the Old Testament. It is a river in the northern part of ancient Israel, flowing through the Jezreel Valley and emptying into the Mediterranean Sea near the city of Haifa. The Kishon River is most notably associated with two major biblical events: the defeat of Sisera by the forces of Deborah and Barak, and the confrontation between the prophet Elijah and the prophets of Baal. Biblical References: 1. Deborah and Barak's Victory: The Kishon River is prominently mentioned in the Book of Judges during the account of the battle between the Israelites, led by Deborah and Barak, and the Canaanite army commanded by Sisera. Judges 4:7 states, "And I will draw out Sisera the commander of Jabin’s army, his chariots, and his troops to the Kishon River, and I will deliver him into your hand." The river played a crucial role in the battle, as heavy rains caused it to overflow, bogging down Sisera's chariots and leading to a decisive victory for the Israelites. Judges 5:21 poetically recounts, "The River Kishon swept them away, the ancient river, the River Kishon. March on, O my soul, in strength!" 2. Elijah and the Prophets of Baal: The Kishon River is also the site of the aftermath of the dramatic confrontation on Mount Carmel between the prophet Elijah and the prophets of Baal. After God answered Elijah's prayer by sending fire from heaven, proving His sovereignty, Elijah ordered the people to seize the prophets of Baal. 1 Kings 18:40 records, "Then Elijah said to them, 'Seize the prophets of Baal! Do not let a single one escape!' So they seized them, and Elijah brought them down to the Kishon Valley and slaughtered them there." Geographical and Historical Context: The Kishon River runs through the fertile Jezreel Valley, a strategic location in ancient Israel due to its agricultural potential and its position as a crossroads for trade and military routes. The river's seasonal flooding, as seen in the account of Sisera's defeat, underscores its role in the natural and military history of the region. The Kishon has been a witness to God's deliverance and judgment, serving as a backdrop for His mighty acts in the history of Israel. Theological Significance: The events at the Kishon River highlight themes of divine intervention and judgment. In the account of Deborah and Barak, the river becomes an instrument of God's deliverance, demonstrating His power over nature and His ability to save His people against overwhelming odds. Similarly, the slaughter of the prophets of Baal at the Kishon underscores the theme of God's supremacy over false gods and His demand for exclusive worship. These narratives reinforce the biblical message of God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant people. Conclusion: The Kishon River, though a relatively minor geographical feature, holds a significant place in biblical history. Its mention in the narratives of Judges and 1 Kings serves as a reminder of God's active presence in the world, His power to deliver, and His ultimate authority over all creation. Smith's Bible Dictionary Kison(winding), an inaccurate mode of representing the name Kishon. (Psalms 83:9) Strong's Hebrew 7028. Qishon -- a wadi in the plain of Megiddo... Kishon, Kison. From qowsh; winding; Kishon, a river of Palestine -- Kishon, Kison. see HEBREW qowsh. 7027, 7028. Qishon. 7029 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/7028.htm - 6k Library Psalm 83 Jehoshaphat Thesaurus Kison (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Kison (1 Occurrence). Psalms 83:9 Do unto them as unto the Midianites; as to Sisera, as to Jabin, at the brook of Kison: (KJV WBS). ... /k/kison.htm - 6k Kisloth (1 Occurrence) Kiss (39 Occurrences) Midianites (30 Occurrences) Brook (75 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Kison (1 Occurrence)Psalms 83:9 Subtopics Related Terms |