Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References:Zaretan, also spelled Zarethan, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is primarily noted in the context of the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River by the Israelites and in the account of Solomon's construction projects. 1. Joshua 3:16 : "The waters flowing downstream stood still, rising up in a heap very far away at Adam, the city beside Zarethan, while the waters flowing toward the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea) were completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho." 2. 1 Kings 7:46 : "The king had them cast in clay molds in the plain of the Jordan between Succoth and Zarethan." 3. 2 Chronicles 4:17 : "The king had them cast in clay molds in the plain of the Jordan between Succoth and Zarethan." Geographical Context: Zaretan is located in the Jordan Valley, near the Jordan River. It is associated with the city of Adam, which is mentioned in the context of the Israelites' crossing of the Jordan. The exact location of Zaretan is not definitively known today, but it is believed to be in the vicinity of the modern-day Jordan Valley, possibly near the site of Tell es-Saidiyeh. Historical and Theological Significance: Zaretan holds historical significance as a landmark in the miraculous event of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River. This event is a testament to God's power and faithfulness in leading His people into the Promised Land. The waters of the Jordan were miraculously stopped, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground, reminiscent of the crossing of the Red Sea. In the context of Solomon's reign, Zaretan is noted as a site where bronze casting took place for the construction of the Temple. The casting of bronze items, such as the two pillars, the Sea, and various utensils, was a significant part of Solomon's building projects, reflecting the wealth and grandeur of his kingdom. The mention of Zaretan in this context highlights the logistical and industrial capabilities of Solomon's administration. Cultural and Archaeological Insights: While the precise location of Zaretan remains uncertain, archaeological findings in the region provide insights into the ancient practices of metallurgy and construction. The use of clay molds for casting bronze, as mentioned in the biblical text, aligns with known ancient techniques. The proximity to the Jordan River would have provided the necessary resources, such as water and clay, for these activities. Zaretan's mention alongside Succoth in the context of Solomon's projects suggests a network of sites involved in the production and transportation of materials for the Temple. This reflects the organized and expansive nature of Solomon's kingdom, as well as the importance of the Temple as a central place of worship and national identity for Israel. Conclusion: Zaretan serves as a significant biblical location, illustrating God's miraculous intervention in Israel's history and the industrious achievements of Solomon's reign. Its mention in Scripture underscores themes of divine providence, covenant fulfillment, and the centrality of worship in the life of God's people. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary ZaretanATS Bible Dictionary ZaretanCalled also Zartnah and Zarthan, 1 Kings 4:12 7:46; a town on the west side of the Jordan, near Bethshean and north of Succoth. The reflux of the Jordan at the crossing of the Israelites was marked as far north as Zaretan, Joshua 3:16. See ZEREDA. Easton's Bible Dictionary When the Hebrews crossed the Jordan, as soon as the feet of the priests were dipped in the water, the flow of the stream was arrested. The point of arrest was the "city of Adam beside Zaretan," probably near Succoth, at the mouth of the Jabbok, some 30 miles up the river from where the people were encamped. There the water "stood and rose upon an heap." Thus the whole space of 30 miles of the river-bed was dry, that the tribes might pass over (Joshua 3:16, 17; Comp. Psalm 104:3). Library Adam and Zaretan, Joshua 3 'The Waters Saw Thee; they were Afraid' From the Talmud and Hebraica Thesaurus Zaretan (3 Occurrences)... The point of arrest was the "city of Adam beside Zaretan," probably near Succoth, at the mouth of the Jabbok, some 30 miles up the river from where the people ... /z/zaretan.htm - 8k Zarethan (4 Occurrences) Zar'ephath (4 Occurrences) Zereda (1 Occurrence) Jizreel (30 Occurrences) Flowed (21 Occurrences) Clay-ground (2 Occurrences) Failed (58 Occurrences) Over-against (156 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Zaretan (3 Occurrences)Joshua 3:16 1 Kings 4:12 1 Kings 7:46 Subtopics Zaretan: A City of Uncertain Location Related Terms |
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