Topical Encyclopedia The Arnon River, known in Hebrew as "נחל ארנון" (Nahal Arnon), is a significant geographical feature in the biblical narrative, serving as a natural boundary and a site of historical events. It is mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of territorial boundaries and military campaigns.Geographical Location The Arnon River is located east of the Jordan River, flowing into the Dead Sea. It originates in the highlands of Moab and travels through a deep gorge, marking the border between the territories of Moab and the Amorites. Today, it is identified with the Wadi Mujib in modern-day Jordan. Biblical References The Arnon is first mentioned in the Book of Numbers as a boundary marker. Numbers 21:13 states, "From there they set out and camped on the other side of the Arnon, in the wilderness that extends into Amorite territory. The Arnon is the border of Moab, between Moab and the Amorites." This passage highlights the river's role as a dividing line between the Moabites and the Amorites. In Deuteronomy 2:24 , God commands the Israelites to cross the Arnon and engage in battle with Sihon, king of the Amorites: "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." This directive marks the beginning of Israel's conquest of the Transjordan region. The Arnon is also mentioned in the context of the allocation of land to the tribes of Israel. In Joshua 12:1-2 , the river is cited as the southern boundary of the territory conquered by Moses: "These are the kings of the land whom the Israelites defeated beyond the Jordan to the east, from the Arnon Gorge to Mount Hermon, including all the Arabah eastward: Sihon king of the Amorites, who reigned in Heshbon. He ruled from Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Gorge, from the middle of the gorge, as far as the Jabbok River, the border of the Ammonites." Historical and Theological Significance The Arnon River's role as a boundary is not merely geographical but also symbolic. It represents a transition point for the Israelites as they move from the wilderness wanderings into the conquest of the Promised Land. The crossing of the Arnon signifies a step of faith and obedience to God's command, as well as the beginning of the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. The river also serves as a reminder of God's provision and protection. The victories over Sihon and Og, which began at the Arnon, demonstrate God's faithfulness in delivering the land into the hands of the Israelites, as recounted in Deuteronomy 3:8 : "At that time we took from the two kings of the Amorites the land across the Jordan, from the Arnon Gorge as far as Mount Hermon." Cultural and Archaeological Insights The Arnon region has been the subject of archaeological interest, with evidence of ancient settlements and fortifications. These findings provide insight into the historical context of the biblical narrative, illustrating the strategic importance of the river as a natural defense line and a contested boundary. In summary, the Arnon River is a key geographical and historical feature in the biblical account, symbolizing boundaries, divine promises, and the unfolding of God's plan for His people. Its mention in Scripture underscores the importance of obedience and trust in God's guidance as the Israelites journeyed toward the fulfillment of His covenant promises. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 2:36From Aroer, which is by the brink of the river of Arnon, and from the city that is by the river, even to Gilead, there was not one city too strong for us: the LORD our God delivered all to us: Torrey's Topical Textbook Joshua 12:1 Library The Northern Coast of Judea. Beth-Horon. How Moses Conquered Sihon and Og Kings of the Amorites, and ... Divine Grace. The Water of Life; The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt Appendices The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria The Reaction against Egypt Resources Do the news reports of rivers turning blood red have anything to do with the end times? | GotQuestions.orgWhere did Noah live? | GotQuestions.org What is the location of the Garden of Eden? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Rivers of Canaan Abounded With Fish Rivers of People Flying from Judgments Rivers of the Abundance of Grace in Christ Rivers of the Gifts and Graces of the Holy Spirit Rivers: (Drying up of) of God's Judgments Rivers: (Fruitfulness of Trees Planted By) of the Permanent Rivers: (Overflowing of) God's Judgments Rivers: (Steady Course of) Peace of Saints Rivers: Banks of Covered With Flags Rivers: Banks of Frequented by Doves Rivers: Banks of Frequented by Wild Beasts Rivers: Banks of Frequently Overflowed Rivers: Banks of Peculiarly Fruitful Rivers: Banks of Places of Common Resort Rivers: Banks of Planted With Trees Rivers: Baptism often Performed In Rivers: Cities often Built Beside Rivers: Gardens often Made Beside Rivers: God's Power Over, Unlimited Rivers: Many, Fordable in some Places Rivers: Often the Boundaries of Kingdoms Rivers: Parted Into Many Streams Rivers: Useful For: Promoting Vegetation Rivers: Useful For: Supplying Drink to the People Related Terms |
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