Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Context:Jericho, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, holds significant historical and theological importance in the Bible. Located near the Jordan River, it was the first city conquered by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership after crossing into the Promised Land (Joshua 6). However, the narrative of Jericho extends beyond its conquest, as it becomes the setting for a miraculous event involving the prophet Elisha. The Problem with the Waters: After the ascension of Elijah, Elisha, his successor, began his prophetic ministry. One of his early acts took place in Jericho, where the men of the city approached him with a pressing concern. The land was described as pleasant, but the water was bad, causing unfruitfulness and death. This situation posed a significant threat to the livelihood and health of the inhabitants (2 Kings 2:19). Elisha's Miracle: In response to the plea of the people of Jericho, Elisha performed a miracle to purify the waters. He requested a new bowl and filled it with salt. Elisha then went to the spring that supplied the city with water and threw the salt into it, declaring, "This is what the LORD says: ‘I have healed this water. No longer will it cause death or unfruitfulness’" (2 Kings 2:21). The waters were healed, and the city was spared from the detrimental effects of the contaminated water. Theological Significance: The miracle of the purified waters at Jericho is rich with theological implications. It demonstrates God's power to restore and bring life where there is death and barrenness. The use of salt, a symbol of purification and preservation, underscores the divine intervention required to cleanse and renew. This event also affirms Elisha's role as a prophet of God, continuing the work of Elijah and establishing his authority among the people. Symbolism and Typology: In a broader biblical context, the healing of the waters can be seen as a typology of spiritual renewal and cleansing. Just as the waters of Jericho were made pure, so too does God offer spiritual purification to His people. This miracle foreshadows the ultimate cleansing from sin through Jesus Christ, who offers living water that leads to eternal life (John 4:14). Historical and Cultural Insights: Jericho's location and its water source were crucial for its survival and prosperity. The city's dependence on a reliable water supply highlights the severity of the problem faced by its inhabitants. In ancient Near Eastern culture, water was not only essential for physical sustenance but also held spiritual significance, often associated with life and blessing. Legacy: The account of Elisha purifying the waters of Jericho has left a lasting legacy in biblical history. It serves as a testament to God's ongoing care and provision for His people, as well as a reminder of the transformative power of faith and obedience. The site of the miracle remains a point of interest for biblical scholars and pilgrims, symbolizing hope and renewal. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 2:18-22And when they came again to him, (for he tarried at Jericho,) he said to them, Did I not say to you, Go not? Nave's Topical Index Library The Healing of the Waters Faustus Denies that the Prophets Predicted Christ. Augustin Proves ... On Pentecost. The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Against Jovinianus. Resources Matthew 20:29-34 says Jesus healed two blind men as He left Jericho. Mark 10:46-52 and Luke 18:35-43 say He healed one man as He entered Jericho. Is this a contradiction? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Rahab in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Achan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Besieged by Joshua for Seven Days Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Blind Men Healed At, by Jesus Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Called the City of Palm Trees Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Location of, Pleasant Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Rahab the Harlot Lived In Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Rebuilt by Hiel Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: The Kenites Lived At Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Zacchaeus Lived At Jericho: Inhabitants of, Taken Captive to Babylon, Return To, With Ezra and Nehemiah Jericho: Joshua Sees the "Captain of the Host" of the Lord Near Jericho: King of Moab Makes Conquest of, and Establishes his Capital At Jericho: Waters of Purified by Elisha Related Terms |
    |