Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References: The Arnon is mentioned in several passages throughout the Old Testament, primarily in the context of territorial boundaries and historical events involving the Israelites and neighboring nations. Key references include Numbers 21:13-14, Deuteronomy 2:24, Deuteronomy 3:8, Joshua 12:1, and Judges 11:18. Geographical Context: The Arnon is a significant river or brook in the biblical landscape, serving as a natural boundary. It flows into the Dead Sea from the east and is identified with the modern-day Wadi Mujib in Jordan. The Arnon's deep gorge and seasonal flow made it a formidable natural barrier in ancient times. Historical and Theological Significance: In the biblical narrative, the Arnon is often mentioned as a boundary marker. It delineated the territory between the Moabites and the Amorites and later became the southern boundary of the land allotted to the tribe of Reuben. The river's strategic importance is highlighted in the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land. 1. Boundary of Moab and Amorites: The Arnon served as the northern boundary of Moab and the southern boundary of the Amorite kingdom. In Numbers 21:13-14, the Israelites camped by the Arnon during their wilderness journey: "From there they set out and camped on the other side of the Arnon, in the wilderness that extends into Amorite territory. For the Arnon is the border of Moab, between Moab and the Amorites." 2. Israelite Conquest: The Arnon is significant in the context of Israel's conquest of the Amorite lands. In Deuteronomy 2:24, God commands the Israelites to begin their conquest from the Arnon: "Arise, set out, and cross the Arnon. See, I have delivered Sihon the Amorite, king of Heshbon, and his land into your hands. Begin to take possession of it, and engage him in battle." 3. Territorial Allotment: The river marked the southern boundary of the territory given to the tribe of Reuben. In Joshua 12:1, the land from the Arnon to Mount Hermon is described as part of the conquered territories: "These are the kings of the land whom the Israelites defeated beyond the Jordan to the east, from the Arnon Valley to Mount Hermon, including all the Arabah eastward." 4. Jephthah's Diplomacy: In Judges 11:18, Jephthah, a judge of Israel, references the Arnon in his diplomatic message to the king of the Ammonites, asserting Israel's historical right to the land: "Then they journeyed through the wilderness and around the land of Edom and the land of Moab. They came to the east side of the land of Moab and camped on the other side of the Arnon, but they did not enter the territory of Moab, for the Arnon was its border." Cultural and Symbolic Aspects: The Arnon, as a boundary river, symbolizes the demarcation of divine promises and human territories. It represents God's provision and protection for His people, as well as the fulfillment of His promises regarding the land. The river's mention in various biblical accounts underscores its role as a witness to God's faithfulness in leading and establishing Israel in the land He promised to their forefathers. Torrey's Topical Textbook Numbers 21:14,15Why it is said in the book of the wars of the LORD, What he did in the Red sea, and in the brooks of Arnon, Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Water of Life; Resources Who were the mighty men of David? | GotQuestions.orgWhy are people irrational? | GotQuestions.org How should a Christian view logic? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Brooks: (Deceptive) of False Friends Brooks: (Drinking of, by the Way) of Help in Distress Brooks: Afforded Protection to a Country Brooks: Borders of, Favourable to Grass Brooks: Borders of, Favourable to Reeds Brooks: Borders of, Favourable to Willows Brooks: Often Ran Over Pebbles Related Terms |