The Greek word cheímarrhos, represented by G5493, refers to a brook, specifically defined as a storm-runlet or winter-torrent. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, signifying a specific geographical feature encountered at a critical moment.
In its single biblical appearance, G5493 marks a key transition in the final hours of Jesus' life. After speaking his final words of instruction, Jesus G2424 went forth G1831 with his disciples G3101 over G4008 the brook G5493 Cedron G2748 and entered a garden G2779 John 18:1. The crossing of this brook serves as the immediate precursor to his arrest.
Several words in the surrounding passage define the movement across and beyond this brook:
- G1831 exérchomai (to issue): This verb marks the beginning of the movement, as Jesus and his disciples "went forth" or departed from where they were, initiating their journey toward the garden John 18:1.
- G2748 Kedrṓn (Cedron): This is the proper name of the brook Jesus crossed. The use of this specific name grounds the event in a real, identifiable location near Jerusalem John 18:1.
- G1525 eisérchomai (to enter): This word describes the completion of the journey across the brook, as Jesus and his disciples entered into the garden, the destination where the events of his betrayal would unfold John 18:1.
The theological weight of G5493 is derived entirely from its pivotal context. It functions as a significant boundary marker.
- A Deliberate Crossing: The act of crossing the brook is a purposeful step. Jesus is not taken by surprise; he "went forth" G1831 and crossed over, knowingly moving toward the place of his betrayal and suffering John 18:1.
- Threshold to the Passion: The brook serves as a natural and symbolic line between Jesus' final moments of teaching with his disciples and the beginning of his passion. Once crossed, he entered G1525 the garden where he would be arrested.
- Geographic and Narrative Marker: The mention of the brook Cedron G2748 firmly places the event in a specific geographical context, highlighting the historicity of the narrative. It is the final landmark passed before the climax of the story begins.
In summary, cheímarrhos G5493 is more than just a geographical term for a brook. Its singular use in scripture imbues it with great significance, marking the physical and narrative threshold Jesus crossed to begin his passion. The word illustrates how a simple element of the landscape can serve as a powerful symbol of transition, marking the final, deliberate steps from freedom to sacrifice.
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