The Greek word Kedrṓn, represented by G2748, is of Hebrew origin and refers to Cedron (i.e. Kidron), a brook near Jerusalem. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, marking a specific and significant geographical location in the biblical narrative.
The sole use of G2748 is found in John 18:1. After Jesus G2424 had spoken G2036 his final words G5023, he went forth G1831 with G4862 his disciples G3101. They crossed over G4008 the brook G5493 Cedron to a place where there was G2258 a garden G2779. This act of crossing the brook signifies a pivotal movement, transitioning Jesus and his disciples from their time of instruction to the location where the events of His passion would begin.
Several related words from its only context help illuminate the scene:
- G5493 cheímarrhos (brook): This term, defined as a "winter-torrent," describes the nature of the Cedron that Jesus crossed. It is the object that G2748 names John 18:1.
- G1831 exérchomai (to go forth): This verb describes the action of Jesus leaving a place to cross the brook. It signifies a departure, as when Jesus proceeded forth from God John 8:42 or when false prophets are gone out into the world 1 John 4:1.
- G2779 kēpos (garden): This is the destination after crossing the Cedron. A garden was not only the place where Jesus entered to pray, but also the location of his crucifixion and new sepulchre John 19:41.
The theological weight of G2748 is derived entirely from its singular, strategic placement in the narrative.
- A Point of Departure: The crossing of the brook Cedron G2748 marks the moment Jesus went forth G1831 after He "had spoken these words" John 18:1. This act physically separates his final teachings from the events of his suffering.
- Entrance to the Passion: The brook serves as a geographical threshold. Once crossed, Jesus entered G1525 the garden G2779, the location that would host His agony and arrest John 18:1.
- A Purposeful Step: Jesus purposefully led his disciples G3101 with G4862 him over G4008 the brook. This journey was not an escape but a deliberate step toward fulfilling his purpose, moving toward the place where he would be taken.
In summary, G2748 Kedrṓn is more than a geographical footnote; it is a significant landmark in the Gospel account. Its single mention denotes the critical transition where Jesus, after concluding His ministry of teaching, purposefully crossed the brook G5493 and entered G1525 the garden, initiating the final, sacrificial events of his earthly life.
TRV